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| N68335-24-C-0081 | Data-Driven Hypersonic Turbulence Modeling Toolset | $997,409 | ATA ENGINEERING, INC. | STTR | Phase II | N22A-T016 | 10/23/2023 | 10/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Development of hypersonic aircraft and weapon systems has become a critical focus for the Department of Defense to maintain global strike and projection of force capabilities. Despite decades of research, traditional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods are either incapable of adequately predicting complex features in hypersonic flows or too expensive to be of practical use for vehicle design in this regime. Therefore, a new modeling methodology is required that approaches the accuracy of scale-resolved CFD simulations at a cost similar to Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS). ATA Engineering, in partnership with the University of Arkansas, has developed a data-driven framework, known as the HYpersonic Physics-informed Energy-tracing RANS (HYPER) Tuner, to tune RANS turbulence closures using machine learning (ML) to modify several terms in a standard RANS turbulence model to improve its accuracy in hypersonic flows. The term modifications will use genetically programmed symbolic regression and constant tuning algorithms to derive the functional form of each term from scale-resolved CFD and experimental data from representative flow configurations. In Phase I, ATA demonstrated the improved accuracy of a tuned RANS turbulence closure on simple, high-speed attached boundary layer cases. In Phase II, ATA will expand and refine the ML algorithms in HYPER Tuner and validate the HYPER Tuner framework against several training cases, including both CFD and experimental data sets and running new high-fidelity CFD simulations on some of those experimental configurations. The Phase II project will also include development and validation of a laminar-to-turbulent transition model for hypersonic flows to further improve RANS predictions of wall shear stress and wall heat flux in the early portion of the developing boundary layer. At the completion of Phase II, HYPER Tuner will be an adaptable, general framework for improving the accuracy of RANS turbulence closures in the hypersonic regime, including various ML algorithms and automated features to enhance its efficacy and ease-of-use for general CFD practitioners. |
| FA2384-23-P-0011 | CHART2 for JADC2 Environments | $149,938 | [ 361 INTERACTIVE LLC] | STTR | Phase I | AF22B-T004 | 07/17/2023 | 04/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In the DoD, there is a pressing need to conduct research to identify the most effective Human-Autonomy Teaming (HAT) approaches within the near-future Joint All-Domain Command and Control Environment. This calls for a flexible simulation environment that |
| FA2384-23-C-B009 | Battle Damage Assessment Manager | $1,799,973 | [ 361 INTERACTIVE LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | AF231-D029 | 09/29/2023 | 09/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In response to SBIR Topic AF231-D029, 361 Interactive, LLC and our subcontractors the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) and MAXAR, Inc., propose to develop the Battle Damage Assessment Manager (BDAM) Phase 2 Capability. Team 361 will develop |
| N68335-23-C-0541 | Advanced Hybrid Gradient Index Lenses via Additive Manufacturing of Low-Loss Materials | $139,220 | 3D FORTIFY INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-063 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Radio frequency (RF) systems are a key enabler of multi-domain mesh networked capabilities in the battlefield of the 21st century. As attritable and expendable unmanned platforms become more common, cost is becoming a larger constraining factor in system specifications. Current high-performance RF systems such as phased arrays meet mission requirements but are costly and consume significant power. Gradient Index Lens Switchable Beam Arrays are a solution that is passive, low cost, extremely high bandwidth, and can handle high power. However, GRIN lenses have current limitations in size, cost, and manufacturability. High Dk material and broad permittivity range is necessary for volume, mass, and cost reduction of GRIN lenses since cost is proportional to print time and hence volume. Transformation optics techniques can be used to reduce the required size of lenses, but the methods require both high Dk’s and broad permittivity ranges to achieve reasonable compression ratios. Materials are available with these high Dk values, however, assembling bulk dielectrics to achieve greater ranges introduces step changes in permittivity, which reduce aperture efficiency and increase sidelobes. A smooth gradient is required across the total dielectric range, which is achievable with additive manufacturing (AM) and tuned lattice structures. AM enables design freedom for gradient indices with tuned lattices mixing air and dielectric to achieve effective permittivities, but current materials and systems require a tradeoff between low RF loss or high frequency performance. Fortify has developed a line of low-loss RF photopolymer composites for the DLP Flux system that enables RF components to be built with stable dielectrics, fine features, and the lowest loss on the market. By combining these materials in different areas of a GRIN lens, broad Dk ranges can be achieved to implement compression ratios > 5, with smooth gradients that provide low scan loss coefficients and minimize sidelobes. The fundamental goal of this Phase I effort is to demonstrate the feasibility of combining discrete 3D-printed dielectric materials within a single lens to extend the permittivity range beyond what is possible with a single material, with index matching at the interfaces to produce smooth dielectric gradients throughout the entire structure. The lenses produced with this technique promise extremely large instantaneous bandwidth, conformal integration into air vehicles or other platforms, the potential for high power handling, and above all, low cost and rapid manufacturing. They support the implementation of a simple, high performance, reliable RF system to meet the needs of low-cost platforms across domains in the DoD. |
| FA8649-23-P-0547 | Accelerating Additive Manufacturing Materials Development for Enhanced Munitions | $1,249,992 | 3DEGREES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/07/2023 | 11/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | 3Degrees’ TraceAM software is a streamlined platform designed to effectively organize, analyze, and deploy critical technical data packages related to Additive Manufactured parts. It is a secure and customizable interface ideal for use in munitions develo |
| N68335-23-C-0564 | Lightweight Mirrors for Microsatellites and Small Satellites | $139,792 | 3DFlexible Inc | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T022 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The goal of this topic is to produce low density and high stiffness space mirrors. 3DFlexible has developed a new additive manufacturing process which incorporates fabricating parts via layer-by-layer printing using glass bubble paste (GBP) and sintering the parts into cellular solids. Cellular solids are structures that are composed of a network of solid struts forming the edges and faces of cells. This enables the fabrication of non-traditional shapes with complex internal geometries and high mass saving potential. For this project, we will use GBP to manufacture a solid structured monolithic substrate for the final mirror. With an identical material lamination process, we can fabricate various shaped light weight substrates with strong bending stiffness. This new manufacturing process is a novel way to reduce mirror mass to values that are not achievable by conventional fabrication techniques. |
| FA8649-23-P-0098 | Transfusion and Endovascular Resuscitation v.1.0 (TiER-1) platform | $74,938 | 410 MEDICAL, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 01/30/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Non-compressible torso hemorrhage (NCTH) is a leading cause of potentially survivable death in United States (U.S.) warfighters and commonly occurs after traumatic injury. A study of 4,596 battlefield fatalities from Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom determined that hemorrhage accounted for 91% of potentially survivable fatalities occurring prior to arrival at a Medical Treatment Facility.1 Additionally, of those 888 deaths attributable to hemorrhage, 67% were from NCTH. This supports the vital need for intervention in far forward military environments. 410 Medical, Inc, with subcontractor, Certus Critical Care, Inc., proposes to develop their Transfusion and Endovascular Resuscitation v 1.0 (TiER-1) platform, combining innovative devices into an integrated automated acute resuscitation platform to care for the wounded warfighter requiring early stabilization while awaiting definitive hemorrhage control for Non-compressible truncal hemorrhage (NCTH). There are currently no commercially available provider-in-the-loop resuscitation platforms marketed in the civilian sector which provide the level of care as the TiER-1 system. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7402 | Non-Destructive Cryogenic Wafer Mapper for Infrared Detector Material Screening | $1,782,519 | 8D PHOTONICS LLC | SBIR | Phase II | MDA22-D003 | 05/18/2023 | 05/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Quality control tools for compound semiconductor operations are desired to provide cost and time savings. 8D Photonics (www.8Dphotonics.com) has been providing the infrared community with the capability to perform cryogenic wafer mapping of minority carrier lifetime and photoluminescence spectra since its inception in 2016. The 8D IR Pioneer wafer mapping system has already demonstrated cooling and lifetime/photoluminescence mapping of 150 mm wafers down to a temperature of 26 K with a temperature uniformity better than 1 K from center to edge of the wafer. Our second-generation 8D IR Explorer software was designed with throughput and usability in mind and includes autotuning features that allow non-experts access to what would otherwise be complicated measurements and analysis. In the first 12 months of the proposed effort, we will install the 8D IR Pioneer wafer mapping system at two different growth foundries for testing and evaluation. Focal plane arrays (FPA) based on dual-color detectors are useful for a variety of applications such as providing enhanced contrast in imaging systems for aircraft. Characterization of dual-color wafers is very challenging using existing techniques as the longer wavelength absorber layer is typically grown on top of the shorter wavelength absorber layer such that the longer wavelength layer blocks optical access to the shorter wavelength layer. The key innovation in this proposal is the development of a novel dynamic charge detection approach to characterize the otherwise-obscured shorter wavelength region of dual-color wafers. When a dual-color wafer is integrated with a read-out circuit, the wafer is typically flipped over, presenting the shorter wavelength absorber layer on the FPA surface. After substrate removal, proper optical access is obtained for both the short and long wavelength layers, however, this is only achieved after a significant amount of fabrication and integration. Our proposed approach to characterizing the as-grown dual-color wafers will result in substantial time and cost savings at all stages of the manufacturing effort from wafer growth to FPA hybridization. Approved for Public Release | 23-MDA-11401 (14 Mar 23) |
| HQ0860-23-C-7116 | Streaming Platform for Object Tracking Analytics | $1,496,680 | A T A, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-006 | 05/03/2023 | 01/02/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | ATA’s proposed innovation is SPOT-lyt, the Streaming Platform for Object Tracking Analytics, a system for real-time and forensic tracking and analysis of moving objects with cutting-edge capabilities in data fusion, simulation, machine learning, and streaming analytics platform operations. For Phase II of this SBIR effort, we propose to use the prototype developed during Phase I as the foundation for this innovation, addressing current MDA needs in object monitoring, surveillance, and intelligence while also incrementally progressing the Department of Defense's experiments in applying machine learning to multi-sensor integration, digital engineering, model and simulation, and big data. During Phase I, ATA tested the feasibility of a platform for developing, deploying, monitoring, and maintaining ML-integrated streaming data pipelines for use in real-time object tracking and analysis. The prototype demonstrated the feasibility of a system that simplifies the historically time-consuming, manual, and code-heavy tasks associated with operational use of ML and streaming data management with innovations that 1) support the ingestion of multiple streaming data sources into the platform using a flexible model to quickly onboard additional new data sources, 2) utilize low-code configuration of ML-integrated streaming data pipelines for simpler streaming data pipeline development and deployment, 3) leverage automation and other operations-related services to support the development, testing, and deployment of ML models, 4) monitor deployed ML models to account for degrading model performance, data drift, and unexpected data, and 5) generate synthetic data to simulate detection events and publish the event data into the system for platform testing and training. The overall goal of Phase II is to mature the Phase I prototype (Technology Readiness Level, TRL 4) into a robust, detailed SPOT-lyt prototype of TRL 6 (Full System Prototype in a Relevant Environment). By the end of the phase, SPOT-lyt will have the additional capabilities required of an operational object tracking system and the platform portability, security, and reliability needed for adoption into production environments. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| FA8649-23-P-1009 | Innovative, Automated Inline Inspection for High Quality, High-Rate Production of Braided Composite Components for Hypersonics and Military Aircraft | $1,245,479 | [ A & P TECHNOLOGY, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/20/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The U.S. Air Force (USAF) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) companies require high rate, lower cost composite manufacturing technologies for Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) and revolutionary air transport vehicles to achieve aggressive cost objectives w |
| HQ072723P0023 | Automated Measurement of Passive Devices in Printed Circuit Assemblies | $196,986 | [www.BestTest.com A.T.E. SOLUTIONS, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | DMEA231-008 | 07/31/2023 | 02/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Microelectronics Activity | Passive components, such as resistors, capacitors and inductors, present a unique complication when reverse engineering is attempted. Automated measurements of device values on populated printed circuit boards - resistance, capacitance and inductance - is complicated by the network effect of neighboring components connected to the component being measured. Some solutions are applicable to some components, but depending on physical size, physical configuration, availability of markings or actual values measured, some solutions will not work for all components. We are proposing an automated and consistent solution that provides for the most accurate measurement mechanism for all passive components, so that an accurate bill of material (BOM) can be generated. Our approach also improves the reliability of the netlist generation process. |
| SP4701-23-P-0049 | Electrical Fuel Pump | $99,408 | A & B Foundry LLC | SBIR | Phase I | DLA231-001 | 07/26/2023 | 07/25/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Maintaining the many types of legacy weapon systems within the Department of Defense (DoD) is an enormous task, made more challenging by the aging of many of these systems. Some of the weapons were designed over 50 years ago and are now facing a shortage of sustainment components due to obsolescence. The situation is further complicated by the lack of sufficient documentation for fabricating or building new components. In addition, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) may refuse to bid due to low purchase quantities or the unavailability of tooling for producing parts. Another significant challenge in maintaining DoD equipment is the high cost associated with procuring materials, especially when there is no competition among suppliers. Developing competition for components can be difficult when the government does not have data rights or sufficient documentation to enable new sources to be developed. To address these challenges and meet the needs of the warfighter, new solutions are needed to replace obsolete or difficult-to-find parts and keep procurement costs in check. Reverse Engineering (RE) is a process that can be used to create Technical Data Packages (TDPs) and develop new manufacturing sources for many of the DoD's limited source, single source, or sole source parts. This effort involves performing the necessary Research and Development (R&D) to conduct RE and create TDPs for components identified by the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) as limited source, with little or no documentation available for their production. A&B Foundry will undertake the R&D required to create Source Approval Requests (SAR) for submission to the DLA along with the First Articles for testing. |
| FA8649-23-P-0951 | Vertically Integrated Platform to Rapidly Manufacture Non-Procurable and Spare Parts | $73,552 | A & B Foundry LLC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force faces significant challenges with sourcing spare parts for its current and aging aircraft. This is largely a result of vendor lock, a shrinking defense industrial base, and difficulties in obtaining replacement parts that meet the necessary |
| FA8650-23-P-1133 | Multifunctional Multi-channel Scalable Cognitive Electromagnetic wide band Transceiver (MUSCET) | $149,549 | A10 SYSTEMS INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF221-0032 | 01/04/2023 | 10/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | AiRANACULUS team proposes Multifunctional Multi-channel Scalable Cognitive Electromagnetic wide band Transceiver (MUSCET) System that will meet and exceed Air Force’s requirements to develop a Low-Cost Scalable Ultrawideband Receiver. MUSCET will provide a distributed multi-function RF sensing capability for attritable platforms supporting integration into a dynamic battlefield environment within the sensing grid construct of the Air Battle Management System (ABMS). MUSCET will support common interfaces such as Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA). MUSCET will provide a scalable Receiver RF personality which may be directly connected with structurally-integrated conformal antenna arrays. MUSCET will leverage COTS open architecture approach to reduce cost and be form factored to integrate inside the SWaP limitations of platforms such as the AgilePod(tm) and Valkyrie XQ58A nose cones. AiRANACULUS is working on several DoD programs including NASA sponsored SBIR called as Coss-Layer Wide-Band Cognitive Communications Architecture Enabled by Intelligent Direct Digital Transceiver (CLAIRE) where it is developing an 8 Channel Wide-band Sensor which can tune from UHF to 28 GHz and can provide Instantaneous Bandwidth > 3 GHz TODAY. This capability is based on IQ-Analog F1000 ASIC Direct Digital Transceiver (DDTRX) technology. The F1000 is a 4x4 transceiver system that consists of four 64 Gsps Analog to Digital Converters (ADCs) and four 64Gsps Digital to Analog Converters (DACs). The wide-band, high sample rate capability allows us to sense a much larger bandwidth (3 GHz IBW) than is commercially available today without the need for external components. The Processing Engine consists of both Xilinx UltraScale+, as well as Nvidia GPU based backend which enables high speed, 100Gbps, Data Offloading, Signal Processing and Deep Machine Learning. We recognize that the Air Force is interested in developing the RF personality board using Zynq UltraScale+ RFSoC |
| FA8649-23-P-0637 | On-Orbit Manufacturing of Thin-Film Solar Photovoltaics | $74,997 | ABOVE: ORBITAL INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/02/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Orbital Assembly (OA), along with Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (ASTI), are developing a solar heated crucible for the manufacturing of lightweight, thin-film solar photovoltaics (PV) on orbit. This technology will enable the development of mass-efficie |
| FA8649-23-P-0571 | Orbital Assembly - Beamed Energy Receiver | $1,688,745 | ABOVE: ORBITAL INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 02/17/2023 | 05/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Orbital Assembly is currently developing a beamed energy receiver for the use in commercial space stations. No technology to receive beamed power currently exists, and this technology will be applicable to US Government spacecraft with little modification |
| FA8818-23-C-B001 | ADAPTATION EFFORTS AND A LIVE DEMONSTRATION TO PROVIDE OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY FOR LOW-COST TACTICAL LAUNCHES | $14,999,988 | ABL SPACE SYSTEMS COMPANY | SBIR | Phase II | AF193-CSO1 | 09/15/2023 | 12/22/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ABL’s concept for the STRATFI subject solution is to enable operational flexibility for responsive launch. In other words, ABL seeks to give users of responsive launch the ability to task payloads, launch sites, and target orbits as needed. This is made e |
| FA8649-23-P-0644 | Reverse Engineering for DAF Obsolete Parts (Argus for Reverse Engineering) | $74,649 | ACCRETE AI GOVERNMENT LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Accrete is an enterprise Artificial Intelligence (AI) company that works with multiple Fortune 500 companies, the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), and others to solve ultrahard tasks like supply chain management/awareness, identifying obscure entertainm |
| 6SVL4-23-P-0001 | Analyzing Narrative Evolution Across Social Networks | $209,226 | ACCRETE AI GOVERNMENT LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SOCOM234-001 | 04/28/2023 | 08/31/2023 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | Accrete proposes developing a social media exploitation platform to achieve a revolutionary information advantage for the command. It will: map social media networks, measure engagement and quantify influence, track narratives and trace mis-/disinformation to its source. The adapted version will automatically translate content across data sources from 100+ languages to eliminate language barriers for operators and analysts. Accrete’s AI can operate efficiently from structured data or obscure unstructured data sources such as Chinese government financial and economic reports, Twitter, SoundCloud, YouTube, Facebook, Spotify, and Reddit. We automatically ingest, extract, and normalize data at scale, enabling us to automate complex cognitive workflows requiring a contextual understanding of information. We utilize our own proprietary AI platform, which we call Nebula, to build discrete solutions that address the exact problem the user is trying to solve. Nebula utilizes advanced AI tools and models to accumulate knowledge and apply that knowledge in increasingly general ways over time. |
| FA8649-23-P-1230 | In-situ On-Orbit Monitoring and Inspection of Satellite Structures | $1,499,999 | ACELLENT TECHNOLOGIES INC | STTR | Phase II | AF21S-TCSO1 | 07/20/2023 | 10/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Space-based assets form the backbone of today’s communication, navigation, and defense industries. Key assets, such as satellites, are highly vulnerable to unexpected damage during their lifetimes from impacts with other vehicles, micrometeoroids, and spa |
| W51701-23-C-0166 | Project Kepler - Social Media Exploitation Analytics Platform | $149,239 | ACCRETE AI GOVERNMENT LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-007 | 08/04/2023 | 11/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8649-23-P-0642 | Argonavis for Supply Chain Shortages (Argus for Supply Chain Logistics Resilience) | $74,649 | ACCRETE AI GOVERNMENT LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Accrete is an enterprise Artificial Intelligence (AI) company that works with multiple Fortune 500 companies, the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), and others to solve ultrahard tasks like supply chain management/awareness, identifying obscure entertainm |
| FA8649-23-P-0190 | A biosecurity platform for the identification of natural and engineered biological threats | $74,933 | ACLID, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Aclid is adapting its commercial platform for Air Force needs. End-users will receive early warnings when human error risks the creation of a novel or existing biothreat. At the same time, end-users will be alerted if nefarious actors attempt to generate a man-made biothreat anywhere in the world. Aclid is a proprietary software platform that ensures security and safety for synthetic biology work, including cloning, virus research, and biosensor development. As gene synthesis becomes more accessible across the globe, concerns around security (e.g., pathogenic sequences, bioterrorism) increase. As a service operating in austere environments, the USAF must recognize its role in preventing the spread of future biothreats. Aclid is the only end-to-end DNA screening platform in existence. Users can gain necessary bioinformation on each use, including organism name, gene ontology, virulence, and function. Our platform flags hits in USDA Select Agent & Toxins List, Australia Group Common Control List, U.S Commerce Control List, and EU Dual Use List. |
| N68335-23-C-0603 | Enhanced Tactical Decision Support through Nowcasting-to-NWP (N2N) Data Fusion of Cloud Evolution | $139,946 | ACME ATRONOMATIC, LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T025 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | In a partnership with the Space Sciences and Engineering Center at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, ACME AtronOmatic d/b/a MyRadar, proposes to develop an end-to-end, nowcasting-to-NWP (N2N) suite that incorporates an artificial intelligence nowcasting model, output from high-quality numerical weather prediction (NWP) models, and an established blending algorithm to create a seamless experience for users. This proposal will highlight the strengths of both modern Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques and traditional NWP methods, creating a superior product compared to using either alone. Our method will employ data fusion, as we combine passive remote sensing observations with characterizations of the thermodynamic instability of the environment from model initial conditions. We first employ machine learning to create a cloud classification algorithm which will be used to correct HRRR cloud layer initial conditions. A second generative AI system will create the nowcasting fields. Training and validation datasets will be sourced from co-located space-borne LIDAR measurements with geostationary satellite retrievals. Finally, we convert these deterministic models to probabilistic using stochastic sampling strategies as well as developing direct probabilistic methods. |
| FA8649-23-P-1092 | Project S.T.A.R. (Secure, Trusted, Assessable Records): Blockchain Based Secure Records & Documents System | $1,241,567 | ADAM AEROSPACE CO., LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 08/10/2023 | 11/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In an era where information is power and the digital realm is as critical as the physical battlefield, the Department of the Air Force (DAF) faces a monumental challenge: ensuring secure, trusted, and accessible records for both Airmen and Guardians. As t |
| FA8649-23-P-0882 | Closed Loop Adaptive Laser Pathing for Additive Manufacturing | $74,999 | [ ADDITIVE MONITORING, INC.] | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Technical Abstract: Project Fringe offered by Additive Monitoring Inc. is a real time defect detection system for metal additive manufacturing (metal 3d printing) It inspects every layer of the part as it prints, recording any out-of-plane defects using s |
| FA8649-23-P-1194 | In-Situ Monitoring for Blown Powder Additive Manufacturing | $1,249,918 | [ ADDITIVE MONITORING, INC.] | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 07/18/2023 | 04/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Background: Additive manufacturing (AM) is transitioning from prototyping to end-use manufacturing and repair applications. Cold Spray AM (CSAM) in particular has incredible potential to produce large, high quality parts from scratch, and repair or reclad |
| FA8649-23-P-0400 | In-situ Monitoring for Blown Powder Additive Manufacturing | $71,127 | [ ADDITIVE MONITORING, INC.] | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/08/2022 | 02/09/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Goals of phase I: Determine the feasibility of structured light measurement to perform in situ monitoring on blown powder additive manufacturing (AM) Validate initial proof-of-concept structured light measurement system on SPEE3D’s WarpSPEE3D 3D Metal Blown Metal Printer SPEE3D is a subcontractor on this effort and anticipates supporting in-situ monitoring technology testing on-site. See letter of Intent. Argonne National Laboratory is a subcontractor on this effort, to aid in technical development of the optics, hardware, software of the in-situ monitoring system. See letter of Intent. Locate an end-user and customer for the transition to phase II Additive Monitoring Inc. has connected successfully with stakeholders of blown powder AM, such as Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex PROACT lab, Pacer Edge personel, Operation Thunder, etc. Technology Vision: Additive manufacturing (AM) is transitioning from prototyping to end-use manufacturing and repair applications. Blown powder AM in particular has incredible potential to produce large, high quality parts from scratch, and repair or reclad existing parts for the DoD. The commercial market-size estimation is approximately $1B. However, to utilize blown powder AM for production, components must qualified and certified. While powder bed fusion some systems of verification, blown powder has no form of quality monitoring. Additive Monitoring Inc. has developed IP surrounding in situ monitoring for powderbed-based monitoring; technology which can also provide in situ monitoring for blown powder with modification. Our in situ monitoring technology is well suited for blown powder because we rapidly measure the shape of deposited material, which can objectively verify the shape of blown powder accumulation to ensure adequate material rates and detect defects. We provide objective shape information, without the need for a blackbox network, so that certification processes can be designed around real data with units. Our technology is inexpensive, and can be retrofitted onto the blown powder nozzle |
| FA9422-23-C-0007 | Safe and High Reliability Batteries for Air Force on Demand Power Application | $1,800,000 | ADA TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF231-D006 | 06/05/2023 | 06/05/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) is a crucial component of the United States' nuclear defense system, and its reliability and performance are of utmost importance. The current emergency power batteries for the Minuteman III ICBM |
| N68335-23-C-0565 | Lightweight Silicon Carbide Mirrors via Binder Jet Additive Manufacturing | $139,943 | ADDITIVE INNOVATIONS LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T022 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The United States Navy has identified a need for improved manufacturing methods and materials for optical mirrors for use in space based, next generation microsatellites. Additive Innovations, LLC is proposing to develop a silicon carbide material for lightweight mirrors using Binder Jet Additive Manufacturing (AM) to meet the goals set forth by the Navy. Optical substrate materials can vary from metals, to glass, to ceramics, and even composite materials. Silicon carbide (SiC) is an ideal optical substrate material due to its low density, high stiffness, low coefficient of thermal expansion and high thermal conductivity. The thermal properties of SiC are ideal because thermal gradients during service will be quickly dissipated, and thermal expansion is low thereby maintaining optical performance. SiC has, however, been traditionally expensive and difficult to manufacture because it cannot be readily machined. Mold processes can be expensive with high tooling costs amortized over one or very low quantities. SiC also is non-toxic, doesn’t outgas, and is slightly electrically conductive. An additively manufactured silicon carbide mirror substrate can meet material requirements and overcome traditional manufacturing challenges. |
| N68335-23-C-0129 | Improved High-Temperature Cable and Connector Package for RF Applications | $138,667 | [ ADIABATICS, INCORPORATED] | SBIR | Phase I | N222-122 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | During Phase I, Adiabatics, Inc. will use generator “best design” technical practices as well as new proprietary technology to develop a solution for high temperature cable and connector development for radio frequency (RF) applications in harsh environments. First, Adiabatics, Inc. will develop a heat transfer model of its proposed RF cable. The cable includes many materials that Adiabatics, Inc. has chosen based on many years of high temperature engine performance work as well as its extensive background in high temperature coatings. These will include high performance ceramic fibers, carbon black material, titanium, polysilazane, copper oxide and aluminum oxide. Many of these materials and their uses are addressed in this proposal. Once the model is generated, it will be used to verify existing cable temperature measurements for given external heat inputs. Upon verification, Adiabatics, Inc. will use the model to predict temperature resistance performance for its high temperature cable design. A simple prototype cable model that will be composed of the materials selected by Adiabatics, Inc. will be constructed and then tested to generate first iteration cable wire temperatures. The heat transfer model developed by Adiabatics, Inc. will be used to confirm measurement of the actual wire temperatures. A similar process will also be used on an RF cable connector. Adiabatics, Inc. will choose a reputable RF cable connector vendor to work with and design prototype RF cable connectors. A heat transfer model of the connector will be developed by Adiabatics, Inc. once this connector design has been finalized. It will then be used to predict existing cable connector temperature characteristics of an already existing RF cable connector. The model will then be revised to match the new high temperature RF cable connector and calculated temperatures of the high temperature connector will be calculated. Open communication between Adiabatics Inc. and the Navy is essential to the success of this design project. Scheduled meetings will be held with the Navy and technical results will be shared and discussed. At the conclusion of this project a solution for a high temperature RF cable and connectors will be developed. |
| N68335-23-C-0360 | Solar blind UVC and VUV detectors | $140,000 | ADROIT MATERIALS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-070 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | As an alternative to MCPs and PMTs, it is proposed to use AlGaN-based UV detectors. These detectors are based on ultra-wide bandgap AlGaN, which allows for solar blind detection of light with wavelength <220 nm, high quantum efficiency (70% at 190 nm), small footprint and weight (<10 g, 170 mm3), stable operation with long lifetime (>10,000 hrs), large detection area (>1 mm2), wide operating temperature window (-50 – 400°C), and radiation hardness. |
| W911NF-23-C-0057 | High Power UVC Light Emitting Diodes for Disinfection Applications | $1,315,219 | ADROIT MATERIALS, INC. | STTR | Phase II | A18B-T006 | 09/28/2023 | 09/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Based on the successful completion of the Phase II effort that demonstrated state-of-the-art UVC LEDs with emission around 265 nm and output power of 25 mW (unpackaged device), a continuation of this effort is proposed. The objectives of the sequential Phase II effort will focus on (a) improving the developed UVC LEDs in terms of efficiency and output power, (b) demonstration of novel packaging schemes that take advantage of the high thermal conductivity of AlN substrates with the goal to achieve unmatched current and optical power densities, and (c) establishing a packaged single chip UVC LED with > 150 mW output power and wall plug efficiency > 20%, (d) demonstration of multi-chip UVC LEDs with > 600 mW output power, and (e) integration of the developed LEDs with mobile water disinfection systems. By achieving these objectives, the Army and other DoD partners will be able to build a new class of low cost, durable, and deployable water purification systems that increase the safety and maintain readiness of its deployed personnel. |
| N68936-23-C-0008 | Multi-layer Structural Ceramic Foam Insulation | $800,000 | ADVANCED CERAMICS MANUFACTURING, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N211-016 | 05/19/2023 | 05/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | This Phase II program addresses the need for more reliable thermal protection systems (TPS) for hypersonic aerial vehicles operating in hypersonic flight environments. A novel manufacturing process is proposed that allows for controlled porosity structures including layer-to-layer variations that can be tailored for the particular application and material property needs. In this program, experimental development of high temperature, lightweight ceramic insulation will be combined with analytical modeling of the configuration to create an effective TPS to insulate the extreme exterior high temperatures from the interior of the hypersonic vehicle such that internal ambient temperature is at =110°F while adding no more that 15% of the weight of the vehicle when empty. An additional objective is to create structural ceramic bodies that can be self-supporting. The ceramic insulation configurations to be explored are uniform, graded, and multilayered including the incorporation of radiation barriers to improve the thermal efficiency of the TPS. |
| SP4701-23-P-0039 | High Entropy TPS Materials | $100,000 | ADVANCED CERAMICS MANUFACTURING, LLC | STTR | Phase I | DLA23A-003 | 07/18/2023 | 01/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Hypersonic aerial vehicles have tailored aerodynamic shapes with sharp leading edges to maximize performance. When a vehicle is travelling through the atmosphere at hypersonic speeds of Mach 5 or higher, it encounters intense friction with the surrounding air. The nose cone and the leading edges of the flight vehicle will experience extremely high temperatures from 3000°F to 5000°F. Ultra-High Temperature Ceramics (UHTCs) have extremely high melting points and are often considered hypersonic structures. However, single phase UHTCs lack the proper mechanical and oxidation properties. Increasing material entropy has been shown to be a successful approach in metallic alloys to improve high temperature properties. High Entropy (HE) metallic alloys are achieved by combining 5 or more elements (in roughly equal percentages). To produce the next jump in TPS materials, our Phase I team will develop High Entropy Ceramics (HECs). In the Phase I, we will develop HECs with extreme thermal/mechanical stability. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7526 | Additive Manufacturing of Structural Insulators | $149,999 | ADVANCED CERAMICS MANUFACTURING, LLC | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T012 | 11/23/2022 | 05/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | There is a need for a lightweight, high-performance, insulation to protect the internal systems in hypersonic vehicles. A passive thermal protection system (TPS) design would be simple and reliable. As designs evolve, there is a need for TPS insulation materials that can be additively manufactured. Our Phase I approach will additively manufacture pre-ceramic scaffolds that are used to create low density ceramic foams. The additive process will allow us to vary the pore size and density locally. This will allow the ceramic foams to perform structurally along predicted load pathways. Because they utilize additive manufacturing, they can be formed into complex insulation geometries that are more efficient than traditional foams. This will allow for designer pore structures that are optimized for thermal and structural loads. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| N64267-23-C-0033 | UHT Ceramic Yarn Manufactured from Discontinuous Fibers | $139,984 | ADVANCED CERAMIC FIBERS, L.L.C. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-072 | 07/11/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Our Navy has two critical goals for this project (1) reduction in supply chain risk and (2) need to open additional sources of “fiber” for the Navy’s future needs. Advanced Ceramic Fibers (ACF) will achieve these two goals by setting up a domestic supply chain for manufacture of fiber based yarn(s) made from different discontinuous fiber types including nanofilaments and micron diameter fibers. ACF is known as a unique manufacturing source for advanced ultra-high temperature (UHT) fibers with some fiber types at TRL6. N231-072 supports Hypersonics and Space Technology with the objective to develop a manufacturing process in which for example short discontinuous silicon carbide (SiC) fibers can be formed into a yarn capable of integration into traditional weaving or braiding systems for the production of high strength, high temperature ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) as part of thermal protection systems. ACF’s technical and management experience span the range from novel fiber manufacturoing to incorporaton into CMCs for turbine engine, hypersonics and space applications. We will achieve the project and objectives goals by 1. We shall adapt commercial yarn twist spinning machine used in forming continuous twisted fiber yarn strands from discontinuous micron diameter filaments (mm lengths) and in Phase II set-up a second yarn spinning machine for nano-filaments (100-500 nm lengths). ACF uses commercially available yarns (micron to nano-meter in diameter) in short and continuous forms for several going Phase II (government) and Phase III (client) projects. 2. We shall apply our patented fiber and manufacturing process to produce high temperature continuous and short SiC layered carbon (SiC/C) fibers (TRL6) and in Phase II include other metal carbide (MC/C) fibers and nano-filament s fibers with utility above 30000C. Our patents cover fibers & manufacturing of unique fiber CMC forms (Quad-XE™). "ACF extends the performance utility of carbon fiber for use in extreme environments" |
| N68335-23-C-0446 | High-temperature superconducting CORC® degaussing cables for shipboard installation | $140,000 | ADVANCED CONDUCTOR TECHNOLOGIES LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-040 | 08/25/2023 | 02/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Navy aims to develop rugged high-temperature-superconducting (HTS) cables for shipboard degaussing applications that can easily be installed on-site without needing to order pre-determined cable lengths. A bundle of, or cable containing 40 RE-Ba2Cu3O7-d (REBCO) tapes would preferably be spooled at lengths exceeding 800 ft. that can be pulled through an exiting conduit or cryostat that may contain several 90-degree bends. The cable needs to withstand a pulling load of up to 1,000 lbs without experiencing any degradation. Once pulled, the cable would be cut and terminated such that each of the 40 tapes are connected in series to form the degaussing cable. Each tape in the cable should be able to carry a nominal current of 100 A with an isolation voltage of 600 V. Advanced Conductor Technologies (ACT) proposes to develop rugged HTS degaussing cables based on its Conductor on Round Core (CORC®) cable technology that has been developed for power cables in Navy ships and electric aircraft and for high-field magnet applications. During the proposed SBIR, CORC® cables will be developed in three steps to make them suitable for use as shipboard degaussing cables. First, CORC® cables will be developed in which each of the tapes, or tape pairs, are insulated from each other. Second, ACT will select high-strength, flexible cable cores that allow repeated bending of the cable during installation when the cable is pulled through a conduit. Third, reliable, and practical CORC® cable terminations that allow each of the tapes or tape pairs to be soldered individually on-site to form the series-connected bundle needed in degaussing cables will also be developed. The Phase I work will be supported by characterization of prototype cables and connectors to demonstrate the feasibility of our approach and prepare for the Phase II program in which a full-scale prototype is developed and delivered to the Navy. |
| SP4701-23-C-0045 | High Temperature Ceramic Insulation Thermal Protection Systems for Hypersonic Weapons | $999,999 | ADVANCED CERAMICS MANUFACTURING, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | DLA222-007 | 07/28/2023 | 07/27/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | There is a clear need for a reliable U.S. source of low-cost, ultra-high temperature ceramic (UHTC) insulation for use in hypersonic weapons that can protect internal heat sensitive components. ACM has developed high porosity, ultrahigh temperature ceramic (UHTC) foams with super low thermal conductivity using a scalable manufacturing process that produces near-net-shape, rigid/flexible insulation. Our ceramic foams have a thermal conductivity that is highly stable to ~1600°C. In the Phase II, ACM proposes to technically and economically optimize these porous foams and manufacturing process to meet the needs of specific platforms. Prototypes will be developed and characterized under relevant conditions. |
| FA8649-23-P-0451 | Rapidly Manufacturable 3D Printed Loop Heat Pipes Enabling High Performance Small Satellites | $1,294,964 | ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGIES INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 08/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. (ACT) proposes to develop a prototype flight-ready 3D printed Loop Heat Pipe (LHP) with deployable radiator for high-performance SmallSats. ACT has been actively involved with 3D printed LHP development as part of previ |
| FA9453-23-P-A008 | Variable Emissivity Thermal Control Capability Development for Space based Applications | $150,000 | ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGIES INC | STTR | Phase I | SF22B-T003 | 12/23/2022 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Keeping an orbital asset at an optimal operating temperature is extremely challenging as orbiting spacecraft experience large temperature swings, the difficulty in getting hardware into space, the limited amount of volume and power available on spacecraft, and the restriction that any heat that is released from a spacecraft must leave radiatively. Radiative cooling using a high-emissivity coating proves to be a very effective way to reduce high surface temperature in orbital conditions where atmosphere is absent. However, the coating would continue to undesirably cool the surface at low temperatures, worsening the temperature swing. To address this challenge, various smart radiation devices are under development to realize variable emissivity based on the temperature of radiating surfaces. However, these devices require temperature sensors, control circuits, and additional electrical power input. In this STTR program, ACT and the UC Berkeley propose to develop a space temperature-adaptive radiative coating that automatically senses the temperature and switches emissivity from a high value at high temperatures to a low value at low temperatures. The proposed technology allows us to achieve large difference between low and high emissivity states (differs by at least 0.5) and provide excellent thermal control for both high and low temperature extremes. |
| FA9550-23-P-0002 | Laser-Based Diagnostic for Plasma-Surface Interactions | $149,996 | ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGIES INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0018 | 03/01/2023 | 08/31/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. (ACT) together with its academic and industrial partners will develop an innovative compact laser system and methodology to measure chemical species or molecules close to a surface subjected to electric discharge plasma |
| HQ072723P0020 | DMEA231-004 - Modular Cryogenic Dewar for Radiation Testing | $197,280 | ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGIES INC | SBIR | Phase I | DMEA231-004 | 07/20/2023 | 02/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Microelectronics Activity | Failure of satellite electronics and other components exposed to natural space environment has been a concern since the early 1960s due to the radiation effects. The radiation effects can be divided into three mechanisms: total ionizing dose (TID), displacement damage (DD), and single event effect (SEE). These failure mechanisms are usually enhanced nonlinearly by other environmental conditions, such as temperature, pressure, and humidity, etc. Thus, the radiation testing, which is designed to understand failure mechanisms, characterize the radiation response of specific devices and to provide data for lot acceptance, should be performed in an environment with wide range of temperature and pressure, and as close as possible to the ones encountered in space. We propose a modular cryogenic Dewar for radiation testing for electronics and other devices. This modular Dewar, with finely controlled temperature, pressure, and humidity, would fit in current popular irradiation chambers in an easy way that it can be exchanged within 10 minutes by trained personnel. Human machine interface is also included so that the system can be controlled through a front panel. The proposed cryogenic Dewar consists of three subsystems: temperature control, humidity control, and vacuum system. The temperature control system can be further divided into cooling loop and heating loop. The cooling loop is designed to use non-reactive fluid to cool the device under test (DUT) down to -150 °C, while the heating loop can heat the DUT up to 200 °C. Both cooling and heating rates are designed to be > 1 °C per minute and could be controlled. The heating loop also maintains the temperature of all components exposed to humidity 3 °C higher than the dew point. The humidity control system is designed to reach a wide range of relative humidity 5% to 80% over a temperature range of 20 to 85 °C and pressure range from 0 to 200 psig in short time. The vacuum system is designed to evacuate the Dewar to 1E-6 Torr from ambient within 90 minutes. The Dewar is designed to be maintained at the desired vacuum level with accuracy of ±1%, and a leakage < 1E-8 scc/sec of helium. The Dewar is designed with a burst maximum operating pressure factor of safety of 4. With proper selection of the materials that can endure 2.0E7 rad during two-hour exposure (without using any chlorofluorocarbon compounds or polytetrafluoroethylene), the weight of the Dewar to be inserted into irradiation chamber is < 50 lbs. Multiple ports are included for feed-through installation of test interfaces and sensor interfaces. |
| N68335-23-C-0464 | N23A-T024 - Compact Condensers Enabled by Additive Manufacturing | $139,797 | ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGIES INC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T024 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | In response to topic N23A-T024 of the Navy STTR 23.A solicitation, titled “Compact Condensers Enabled by Additive Manufacturing”, Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. (ACT) will develop a 3D printed refrigerant to water condenser for use in electronic cooling systems. The proposed condenser is compact and easy to scale up. Enhancing flow condensation heat transfer leads to reducing the size of thermal management hardware. However, compared to extensive efforts in fabricating efficient evaporators, less research has been conducted to develop efficient heat rejection components. As a result, still commercial condensers are too large. ACT’s proposed condenser is capable to enhance condensation heat transfer based on the innovative internal structure of the condenser without a penalty in the pressure drop across the refrigerant and water sides. While fabrication of such internal structure with thin walls is almost infeasible by conventional manufacturing processes, 3D printing substantially simplifies the fabrication process, thereby reduces the risk and cost associated with labor-intensive steps of traditional manufacturing. |
| FA9101-23-P-B039 | AF231-0007 - Cryovacuum Slip Ring for Instrumentation and Purge / Cooling Flow | $179,995 | ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGIES INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0007 | 06/14/2023 | 03/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Cryo-vacuum environments pose unique challenges for slip rings, which are used to transmit signals and power between stationary and rotating components in many types of equipment. In these extreme conditions, traditional electrical slip rings may fail due |
| FA9453-23-P-A042 | TRAP Cell | $149,995 | ADVANCED COOLING TECHNOLOGIES INC | SBIR | Phase I | SF224-0014 | 03/20/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In this Air Force SBIR program, Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc. (ACT) will develop a high-performance HgCdTe based thermo-radiative (TR) cell energy harvesting technology that could efficiently utilize the waste heat from the space solar cell to gener |
| HT9425-23-C-0054 | A Low-Cost, Modular Blast Acquisition Test System | $1,100,000 | ADVANCED MATERIALS & DEVICES | STTR | Phase II | DHA22B-001 | 08/15/2023 | 12/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | This Small Business Technology Transfer Phase II effort aims to develop a fully integrated, modular human surrogate, a software suite, and wireless data transmission. The main goals of the Phase II project will be to increase the biofidelity, modularity, and manufacturability of the low-cost, sensor-integrated surrogate developed in Phase I. In Phase II, the prototype that was developed in Phase I will be modified for a female with anatomical differences. Therefore, two separate prototypes will be delivered. The proposed surrogates will be utilized for evaluating the effectiveness of next-generation personal protective equipment. A software suite will be developed to wirelessly collect data and analyze the blast histograms. The developed blast acquisition surrogate test system leverages sensors to be connected to a stand-alone data acquisition box for integration into an anatomically correct surrogate. The torso with head, brain, neck, lung, and neurosensory organs are fabricated with material properties to achieve biofidelity at a low cost. The surrogate system will be revised to increase anatomical accuracy and trade studies will be performed on material selection, multi-material fabrication, and surrogate lung and brain matter modifications. The biofidelity will be demonstrated by testing and evaluating the revised surrogate prototypes under wide blast loading conditions using blast chambers. A roadmap for Phase III will be developed, where, the prototypes will be finalized for manufacturability, durability, and cost reduction; the software will be completed to analyze data for injury risk. |
| FA8649-23-P-1011 | ANPC: Developing Mode 5 Compliant Transportable Transponder Landing System For Agile Combat Employment | $1,163,352 | ADVANCED NAVIGATION & POSITIONING CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 07/25/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Transponder Landing System (TLS) developed by ANPC is a precision approach guidance and surveillance system designed to provide all-weather airfield access and situational awareness for improved airport accessibility and safety. The TLS provides the c |
| FA8649-23-P-0526 | Autonomous Acquisition and Voice Over Localizer for Unmanned Air Traffic Control in Austere Environments | $1,249,826 | ADVANCED NAVIGATION & POSITIONING CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/13/2023 | 08/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Transponder Landing System (TLS) developed by ANPC is a precision approach guidance and surveillance system designed to provide all-weather airfield access and situational awareness for improved airport accessibility and safety. The TLS provides the c |
| FA8649-23-P-0525 | Enabling USAF ACE Construct with Roll On/Roll Off Air Traffic Control System | $1,249,505 | ADVANCED NAVIGATION & POSITIONING CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 08/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Transponder Landing System (TLS) developed by ANPC is a precision approach guidance and surveillance system designed to provide all-weather airfield access and situational awareness for improved airport accessibility and safety. The TLS provides the c |
| N68335-23-C-0509 | Evaluating the Effectiveness of using a COTS solution for achieving the Navy's Back-End Data Lake and Microservices (BEDLAM) strategy for Battle Manag | $139,640 | ADVANCED ONION INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-015 | 07/10/2023 | 01/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | We propose a study to assess the feasibility and efficacy of using a COTS solution to provide data level Attribute-Based Access Control (ABAC) in an integrated Battle Management Aid data lake to expose the data available to developers for reuse while maintaining proper security boundaries for the software applications to protect intellectual property rights of all developers. Currently, the government has an urgent and expensive need to enhance developer collaboration in mixed government and non-government-controlled environments. As such, our analysis intends to assess the technical feasibility of sharing across BMA’s and applications in near-real time. This Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) proposal presents our research plan to determine future courses of action and best practices to enhance Back End Data Lake and Microservices (BEDLAM) strategy for Battle Management Aid development. |
| H9240523P0001 | Topological Anomaly Detection | $149,867 | ADVANCED ONION INC | SBIR | Phase I | SOCOM224-007 | 03/02/2023 | 09/08/2023 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | We propose a study to assess the feasibility and efficacy of using graph/based analytics and Graph Neural Networks (GNN) to identify anomalous individual and organizational personas in financial transaction datasets. Currently, there is an urgent and expensive need to deny nefarious transnational state and non/state actors from accessing global financial systems, export/controlled technologies, critical supply chain networks, and other sensitive systems pertinent to U.S. national security. While various techniques exist today that perform pattern recognition and anomaly detection reporting, these techniques often result in limited operational value for key stakeholders and decision makers. As such, our analysis intends to quantify the impact of automated graph/based anomaly detection techniques for providing timely, relevant, actionable reporting in the financial threat intelligence domain. This Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) proposal presents our research plan that aims to assess these objectives to determine future courses of action and best practices to achieve automated graph/based generative/alert reporting and analyst/defined discovery in databases. Finally, our research intends to provide a Technical Design Document (TDD) that holistically examines how graph/based techniques may be applied across SOCOM’s net/new (Greenfield) and legacy modified (Brownfield) systems. |
| FA9550-23-P-0004 | MEMS Scale Ion Energy Analyzer | $146,534 | ADVANCED RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | SF222-0017 | 03/15/2023 | 03/13/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Space plasma weather affects the functioning and survivability of orbital space assets. We will design and manufacture a MEMs scale, miniature electrostatic analyzer (ESA) for spaceborne applications that enables measurements of these space plasmas for di |
| FA8649-23-P-1004 | Applying the FLiCert Design and Certification Support Tool to OEM eVTOL Applications | $749,950 | [www.flightlab.com ADVANCED ROTORCRAFT TECHNOLOGY, INC.] | STTR | Phase II | AFX20D-TCSO1 | 09/13/2023 | 12/13/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Through a previous AFWERX STTR Phase II contract, Advanced Rotorcraft Technology, Inc. (ART) has developed a high-fidelity simulation-based FLight Certification tool (FLiCert) for design, test, and certification support for Vertical Takeoff and Landing (V |
| FA9453-23-P-A057 | Cislunar Navigation | $180,000 | ADVANCED SPACE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SF231-0024 | 09/05/2023 | 06/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In response to the DoD SBIR 2023.1 Solicitation for the Space Force Phase I Program, topic SF231-0024, Advanced Space, LLC proposes to mature a navigation and communications relay solution using the Cislunar Autonomous Positioning System (CAPS) technology |
| HT9425-23-P-0056 | The Coaxial Femoral Cannula (CFC) for Far Forward Extracoporeal Life Support Initiation, Prolonged Field Care, and Transport | $249,658 | [ ADVANCED RESPIRATORY TECHNOLOGIES, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | DHA231-003 | 07/12/2023 | 03/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | In this proposal, we will demonstrate the feasibility of a Coaxial Femoral Cannula (CFC) for use in extracorporeal life support (ECLS) transport of wounded soldiers from far forward positions. Soldiers who develop acute lung injury (ALI) in combat zones cannot be immediately transported to advanced medical centers due to their tenuous respiratory condition and the hostile environments where they sustain their injury. ECLS can be used to support patients suffering from respiratory insufficiency or cardiopulmonary injuries. However, ECLS is only used in intensive care units (ICUs) due to system complexity, machine size, and the technical complexity involved with utilizing currently available cannulas for vascular access. ECLS is typically initiated at either a single vasculature access site using a dual lumen cannula inserted into the right internal jugular vein (RIJ) or at two access sites using single lumen cannulas inserted into the RIJ and a femoral vein (FV). However, these cannulation methods can be ergonomically challenging during patient transport; are challenging to insert and maintain position without advanced imaging; and are thus difficult to deploy in military situations even at a Role 3 combat hospitals, which deliver the highest level of care within the combat theatre. Despite this, the military has used ECLS to transport soldiers from Iraq and Afghanistan to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. More recently, the DoD has focused on operating a centralized ECLS team out of the US, the San Antonio Military Medical Center (SAMMC). However, this results in standby times of 24-48 hours before highly trained staff can deploy to initiate ECLS for subsequent transport. Thus, there is a need to simplify ECLS cannulation to enable rapid initiation of ECLS in forward operating environments by personnel at combat medic levels of training. The CFC will allow for safe cannulation in far forward positions by GHOST teams, Forward Surgical Teams or by Role 3 medics with minimal resources. The CFC is designed for facile insertion under ultrasound guidance with little sensitivity to positioning. Its robust design will reduce insertion complications and the CFC allows the ECLS system to move with the patient either on the stretcher using current ECLS systems or strapped directly to the patient’s leg using the PAS transport system being developed by ART. This will enable early initiation of ECLS support to stabilize the patient while the dedicated ECLS team from SAAMC is enroute to transport the wounded warfighter to definitive care in the United States. In this proposal we will build durable prototype CFC’s and test them in vitro. We will perform simulated cannulation and ECLS for 72 hours using a high-fidelity cannulation simulator to assess durability and the ability to place the CFC under ultrasound guidance. Then we will perform ISO 18193:2021 testing of: cannula kink resistance; integrity of the components; and cannula pressure drop. |
| FA8750-23-C-1013 | Conceptual Spaces for Space Event Characterization | $149,988 | ADVANCED SPACE LLC | STTR | Phase I | SF22D-T001 | 03/21/2023 | 12/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In response to the DoD STTR 2022.D Solicitation for the Air Force Phase I Program, topic SF22D-T001, Advanced Space, LLC, and the University of Texas at Austin (UT) propose to design and develop hard and soft data techniques to characterize and identify R |
| W911NF-23-C-0056 | Laser Activated PLASma (LAPLAS) for Standoff Electronic Denial | $1,315,209 | ADVANCED SYSTEMS & TECHNOLOGIES INC | STTR | Phase II | A19C-T007 | 09/26/2023 | 09/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Robotic systems in general, and Unmanned Arial Vehicles (UAVs) in particular, pose a threat for both military and civilians when in the wrong hands. The triad of Kinetic, High-Power Microwave and Laser weapon systems currently used or considered for Counter-UAV (C-UAV) operation though effective in disrupting their performance, might be hazardous when used in a populated area. In the Phase I program, AS&T proposed an alternative technology with its C-UAV denial enactment based on the use of the laser-induced broadband RF radiation. AS&T performed modeling, numerical simulations and laboratory validation of the LAPLAS concept. In Phase II, AS&T built the working breadboard of the LAPLAS system and performed a full-scale experimental evaluation of the electronic denial technology with its operation based on the laser-plasma induced frequency agile RF signal with jamming capabilities. The Sequential Phase II activities comprise of design, integration, field testing and validation of the prototype of LAPLAS system in scenarios relevant to operational environment. The program will culminate with LAPLAS system transitioning to the Army designated facilities. |
| N68335-23-C-0476 | DIGITAL ENGINEERING - Automated Cavitating Waterjet Cleaning Device | $139,917 | ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N231-031 | 06/23/2023 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Advanced Technology and Research Corporation (ATR) proposes an autonomous robotic cleaning system for use on docked submarines or surface vessels. The robotic cleaning is an approximately 250 lb hull-crawling robot with integrated cavitating waterjets and sensors for navigation and cleaning. It autonomously navigates to an area of biofouling concern, senses the level of biofouling, and then cleans the desired area at an appropriate level of intensity. The robot adheres to the hull surface through suction, which also acts to clear away the removed particulates during cleaning. The robot marries existing proven technologies on hull crawling with an innovative solution to sensing and autonomy. A dockside base station connects an umbilical to the robot and provides the high-power functions of high-pressure water and suction. The low-power robot is battery operated, communicates to the base station through an ultra-short baseline (USBL) network, and automatically recharges when it is retracted to the base station between cleaning cycles. It will enable regular cleaning of hull features and reduce the cost, risk, and time associated with current manual cleaning practices. |
| W5170123C0026 | GUMBO Graphical User Interface | $449,769 | ADVENTIUM ENTERPRISES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A18-110 | 02/01/2023 | 02/01/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W912CG23C0003 | VOLTA Maturation for AF/DoD Embedded Systems Analysis (V-MESA) | $1,249,949 | ADVENTIUM ENTERPRISES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF221-DCSO1 | 11/28/2022 | 09/27/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Modern, networked, cyber-physical systems pose a special challenge for Cyber Vulnerability Assessment. Communication protocols may be inherently vulnerable, may be implemented in an unsafe manner, or may be vulnerable to timing attacks, in which carefully-timed inputs can be used to disrupt system operations. Developed under AFRL's NOVA program, Adventium Labs’ VOLTA software automates the process of exploring the behavior of implemented systems, including timed behavior. VOLTA supports this analysis by identifying and investigating the implementation of both known and unknown protocols. Because it learns implemented behavior, VOLTA can be applied to legacy systems, even where documentation is not available, or as a design aid to identify vulnerabilities in systems currently being designed or modified. VOLTA learns an explicit model of the behavior of the implemented system, and so can detect vulnerabilities that neither fuzzing nor conventional testing may be able to find. In some cases, VOLTA can establish that no such vulnerabilities exist. With feasibility established using several commercial products as exemplars, this project will extend, mature, and transition VOLTA for use in Air Force and DoD specific analysis applications. |
| FA9451-23-P-A042 | Waveguide-Based, high heralding efficiency biphoton source | $149,953 | ADVR, INC. | STTR | Phase I | SF22D-T005 | 05/08/2023 | 02/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The overall goal of this multiphase STTR program is to develop fully packaged waveguide-based biphoton sources with high brightness and ultra-high, well characterized heralding efficiency. The specific goal of this phase I STTR is to establish the feasibi |
| W50S8C-23-C-0001 | Mobile Enterprise Readiness and Accountability System (MERAS) - Sequential | $1,800,000 | ADYTON PBC INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF203-CSO1 | 06/23/2023 | 09/23/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This proposed TACFI effort will be both a continuation and enhancement of the current Phase II MERAS work - one that would expand the impact and value potential for the Total Force by many multiples. Extensive interaction with End-Users during the previou |
| W51701-23-C-0204 | MODULAR ELECTRIC AUXILIARY POWER UNIT WITH ENERGY STORAGE | $1,622,803 | AEGIS POWER SYSTEMS INC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-016 | 09/19/2023 | 03/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0662 | AI-Driven Video Threat Assessment System | $72,270 | AEGIS SYSTEMS INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/28/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Problem Currently, most AF Bases use CCTV security camera systems as part of a force protection effort, but these systems rely on Airmen / human visual monitoring for detecting threats. Research in commercial CCTV security monitoring shows a high rate of |
| FA9451-23-P-0011 | High Purity Entanglement Generation Using Complex Domain Engineering | $149,897 | ADVR, INC. | STTR | Phase I | SF22D-T004 | 06/06/2023 | 03/04/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The overall goal of this multiphase STTR program is to develop a pulsed source of high purity entangled photons suitable for use at the Air Force’s Starfire free space optical range to support advances in free space quantum networking hardware and protoco |
| FA8649-23-P-0026 | A Green Antibiofilm and Antifouling Solution for Water Treatment in the DAF | $1,249,324 | AEQUOR INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 11/08/2022 | 02/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The DAF and DOD are facing challenges related to the long-established use of firefighting foams containing Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), chemicals now considered health and environmental concerns. Hundreds of DAF/DOD sites and bases are being tested to determine whether PFAS levels are within the acceptable limits. DAF efforts to rapidly reduce or eliminate the PFAS with filtration have been complicated by the incessant formation of microbial biofilm that clogs the filters. Traditional methods to address this biocontamination are not consistently effective or require harsh biocidal chemicals that are restricted from being pumped back into the aquifer. Aequor's eco-friendly, sustainable chemical formulation is being developed for DAF water treatment systems to replace the current methods and chemicals or to potentiate them to work effectively at permissible doses. Aequor has developed a work plan based on the needs expressed by DAF Remediation Program Managers at Joint Base Cape Cod (JBCC) and Wright-Paterson Air Force Bases, as well as the Air Force Civil Engineering Center, to resolve the problems of biofilm formation at existing and newly-planned PFAS water filtration systems. The pilot project will test Aequor’s treatment against the microbial load specific to the JBCC system and other groundwater treatment systems. |
| FA8649-23-P-1012 | C17 Globemaster III Nucleated Foam On-wing engine performance restoration | $1,200,992 | AEROCORE TECHNOLOGIES LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/26/2023 | 06/26/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The United States Air Force (USAF) aims to enhance the energy efficiency and readiness of the C-17 Globemaster III through the application of AeroCore's advanced technologies. These technologies, including Nucleated Foam Technology and On-Wing Restoration |
| HDTRA1-23-P-0011 | An Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Based 3 Dimension (3D) Building Model Generation Capability for Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Situational Awareness (SA) and Hazard Modeling | $182,999 | AERIS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | CBD222-005 | 05/22/2023 | 12/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | If successful, we will demonstrate the feasibility of the two technology elements that we believe are necessary to automate the development of photo-realistic 3D models of buildings that are physically consistent with the 3D model inputs for chemical and biological (CB) hazard estimation models. This will enable the development of a full capability that combines these elements into a fully automated system to develop these 3D model data sets. Automation will enable large numbers of buildings to be efficiently transformed into the data required by the CB hazard models and mission planning and training systems. It will also provide the foundational technologies that we believe could then be extended to support additional datasets and ultimately be hardened into a robust tool suitable for a variety of applications. In addition to the chemical and biological defense (CBD) mission planning and training application that this initial effort addresses, we believe that there are significant additional applications where this technology could be applied. Within the government sector we believe that the capability could be utilized to automate the development of photo-realistic training environments for urban mission planning and training for other Department of Defense (DoD) missions. Similar mission planning and training applications exist for domestic emergency response and law enforcement applications where the development of photo-realistic urban landscapes and building interior environments for prescribed locations could be used to improve the mission outcomes through better preparation. Within the private sector we believe that a substantial market exists for the use of the technologies that we propose to develop in this effort. For the architectural design and construction industries this technology could be used to take a survey of a building or multiple buildings and be used to automatically develop computer aided drawing (CAD) representations of a set of buildings and corresponding 3D models. For example, we envision that this could result in a reduction in the man-hours required by architects and designers to create the initial building layout that would then serve as the starting point for a re-design for a building remodel effort. Additionally, the linkage to the CB hazard estimation models further creates a capability for the design of buildings where health and safety from airborne toxins and viruses can be taken into account during the design process. The computer gaming, television, and film industries extensively use computer graphics (CG) representations of urban landscapes and buildings and currently utilize many of the technologies we are employing in this effort for this purpose. As is the case in the building industry the automation of the building of photo-realistic 3D models of existing cities and buildings could lead to a substantial reduction in the level of effort required to create CG products for these applications. |
| W51701-23-C-0153 | AUTOMATED REAL-TIME SUPPLY MANAGEMENT USING MACHINE LEARNING AND LONG-RANGE RFID | $149,827 | AEROCHARGE INC. | SBIR | Phase I | A234-007 | 08/09/2023 | 11/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8649-23-P-0520 | Aircraft Cabin Management AF Aerosens D2P2 | $1,249,930 | AEROSENS, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/07/2023 | 08/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Manual inspection costs USAF many hours every single day, time that airmen could dedicate to more important tasks such as training, significantly delays the readiness of the transport aircraft to perform their mission. Furthermore, delegating this task to |
| FA9422-23-C-0008 | Nickel- Zinc Emergency Power Battery | $1,788,786 | [ AESIR TECHNOLOGIES INC] | SBIR | Phase II | AF231-D006 | 06/05/2023 | 06/05/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Æsir Technologies will develop, build, and deliver a set of large-format NiZn batteries that will meet the requirements specified by the Air Force for the Emergency Power Batteries for Minuteman III ICBM facilities. The period of performance is 24 months. |
| N6600123C4035 | ArEMGuard: Mobile Infrastructure Authentication in Expeditionary Regions via Unintended Electromagnetic Emission Monitoring | $1,000,000 | AETHER ARGUS INC | SBIR | Phase II | HR0011SB20224-17 | 04/12/2023 | 04/16/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | US forces deployed abroad often have to use foreign-manufactured and -operated mobile infrastructure for communications, especially in the early stages of operations. The infrastructure might be in a friendly, neutral, or hostile region, yet has to be relied upon for secure communication. Non-authorized, misconfigured, or compromised systems increase the risk of malicious activities impacting the security of the US forces and their operations due to the lack of visibility into its configuration, operation, and management. Even in a Blue terrain environment, authorization is vital due to outsourcing of the 5G systems and components. The supply chain for devices commonly employed in 5G networks includes not only the (potentially) trusted system integrators and/or suppliers. Many entities in these highly complex and globally distributed supply chains are untrusted, possibly controlled by adversary foreign governments. Assembling a supply chain consisting of trusted entities is prohibitively costly. Hence, a mechanism that authenticates the components of 5G systems is a necessity. Due to the ubiquitous nature and abundance of 5G systems, this detection/authentication mechanism must be highly sensitive, cost-effective, and easily/quickly deployable. Aether Argus Inc. is pleased to propose “ArEMGuard - Mobile Infrastructure Authenticationin Expeditionary Regions via Unintended Electromagnetic Emission Monitoring”. ArEMGuard represents a novel and unique approach to protect both legacy and 5G mobile core network elements (MCNEs) and Internet of Things (IoT) devices against firmware supply chain attacks and detecting run-time (software) exploitation. The primary novel aspect of our proposed research is the combination of techniques that leverage unintended electromagnetic emissions (EMEs) to conduct runtime state attestation for MCNEs. These emissions are byproducts of legitimate operations on a given hardware platform with a characteristic pattern that can be sensed from close proximity. With ArEMGuard, we will investigate the applicability of EME analysis to provide protection for MCNEs and/or IoT devices at more complex software/hardware configurations operating in RF-noisy environments, while using less expensive sensing and processing devices. |
| W912CG23C0015 | EMSCALe: Component Decomposition by Leveraging Electromagnetic Sidechannels | $1,493,888 | AETHER ARGUS INC | SBIR | Phase II | HR0011SB20224-15 | 03/21/2023 | 10/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | We propose “EMSCALe: Component Decomposition and Attestation by Leveraging Electromagnetic Side-channels”, a novel approach to accurately identify functions of integrated circuits (ICs) and detect deviation from ordinary activities by monitoring the unintended electromagnetic (EM) signal emanated from heterogeneous ICs (HICs). EMSCALe will collect EM signals using purpose-designed antennas, then pre-process and reveal the information embedded into the EM signals about different aspects of the components. EMSCALe will use models of software behavior and software-system-hardware interactions to form hypotheses about the signal models of the individual ICs. During the test stage, the framework will then update these hypotheses by matching the expected signals for each hypothesis to the observed signals. Having multiple hypotheses helps to cope with the presence of interrupts, input/output activity, cache misses, branch miss-predictions, other events, etc., and will allow EMSCALe to maintain high accuracy and fidelity while identifying components of an HIC of interest. These events significantly change the emanated EM signals in a way that is seemingly random. However, EMSCALe can account for these deviations and even use them to improve component identification. The basic concepts and initial feasibility of EMSCALe for IoT-class devices was demonstrated by the founders of Aether Argus Inc. in the DARPA LADS program. We will build upon that work to demonstrate the ability to identify the individual IC components and detect anomalies (hardware Trojan injected or counterfeit) in real-time on devices of interest. Aether Argus Inc. is a technology startup created by faculty members at Georgia Tech and Virginia Tech, bringing together technical expertise, know-how, and intellectual property created through participation in the DARPA LADS program in their academic capacity. This prior work represents a “best of breed” on EME-based analysis for defensive purposes, consistently demonstrating the dominant results across the program. We will leverage our experience and initial results to “hit the ground running” in conducting the proposed research. |
| FA8649-23-P-0269 | Bugs Away | $75,000 | [ AGARVEY LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Pathogens such as MRSA, SARs, Monkey Pox are only a sample of diseases effecting the general population. Frontline emergency personnel and especially the military are exposed to additional diseases and often treat individuals with unknown diseases. Tools and PPE used to military personnel are susceptible to contamination especially shared items and this can result in the transmission of surface and inner layer pathogens causing illness and mission downtime or replacement of isolated personnel. Decontamination of surfaces is vital to prevent contraction of bacterial and viral infections. AGarvey uses a patented process for decontamination surfaces and inner layers of fabrics: Blue Light and or UVC irradiation, air movement decontamination and electric fields. This trifecta of non solvent decontamination is unique in the industry. |
| N68335-23-C-0543 | Additive Manufactured Low-Loss Small-Size Low-Profile Conformal GRIN Lens in the K-Band | $146,492 | [Agilerfsystems.com AGILE RF SYSTEMS LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | N231-063 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Agile RF Systems (ARS), in conjunction with University of Oklahoma experts in wideband radiator and lens design (Dr. Jorge Salazar-Cerreno) and additive manufacturing using nano-particles (Dr. Joseph Tischler), proposes a compact, low-loss, conformal GRIN lens in the K-band based on additive manufacturing (AM) with novel composite ceramic materials. Compact planar lenses generally require a high dielectric constant gradient, with the central lens portion having a relative dielectric constant around 10. In practice, the designer is often limited by the dielectric constants of standard AM materials, which generally hover around 3. In order to take advantage of the fabrication benefits of additive manufacturing, the ARS team proposes doping standard 3D printed materials with a SrTiO3 nano-powder to produce a printable material with a relative dielectric constant of up to 20. Strontium titanate has a loss tangent less than 0.003, so it will not notably increase ohmic losses. Critically, additive manufacturing with this doped material allows for a nearly-continuous dielectric constant gradient in all three spatial dimensions. This is in contrast to the typical stacked approach which often has minimal vertical spatial gradient or has discrete layers, which can prevent wideband impedance matching and increase sidelobes. The proposed system is volumetrically compact, lightweight, low-loss, able to be conformally mounted to an aircraft, and can achieve wide-angle scanning with reduced sidelobes relative to comparable approaches. |
| FA8730-23-C-B021 | Portable Weather Radar | $1,800,000 | [Agilerfsystems.com AGILE RF SYSTEMS LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | AF151-139 | 04/23/2023 | 04/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Agile RF Systems LLC proposes to mature the design of a Portable Weather Radar successfully demonstrated on a USAF Rapid Innovation Fund program and make ready for field deployment. This radar incorporates a 1 meter class aperture and is based on a hybrid |
| FA8649-23-P-0267 | Enabling Operational Agility and Innovation in the Department of the Air Force | $74,999 | AGILE TRANSFORMATION INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | AgilityHealth’s robust measurement and continuous improvement platform has enabled many Fortune 500 companies to foster a culture of innovation, and significantly improve business outcomes, as a result of implementing iterative project management frameworks and working to develop “agile” teams. Considering ongoing geopolitical instability, it is imperative that U.S. warfighters embrace proven management approaches that have bolstered innovation in the private sector because maintaining a competitive advantage is largely dependent on our capacity to quickly adapt and develop innovative solutions to complex problems in dynamic contexts. The primary objective of the proposed Phase I SBIR/STTR project is to enable warfighter problem-solving/innovation by engaging DAF customers/end-users in R/R&D and adapting our assessments, and associated continuous improvement methodologies, to function, and add value, in the DAF context so that our measurement and continuous improvement platform can be leveraged by more and more DAF customers/end-users as part of subsequent Phase II/III projects. AgilityHealth will build DAF leaders’ competencies to engage teams in common “agile” ceremonies, including but not limited to periodic performance assessments, strategic retrospectives, and growth planning. Enabling operational agility directly supports DAF Strategic Capabilities involving resilient information sharing and rapid/effective decision making, advances innovation, and ensures U.S. warfighter readiness and superiority over technologically advanced adversaries like China and Russia. |
| W51701-23-C-0188 | Combat Vehicle Programs: Product Development (PD) Resilience through Set-Based Design Application | $1,899,996 | [ AGILESYSTEMS LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | A19-098 | 08/02/2023 | 02/07/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Product development (PD) can be a challenging and unpredictable process, especially when it involves complex and highly engineered programs like those within the Department of Defense (DoD). Traditionally, PD systems have relied on a point-solution design (PSD) approach, which focuses on quickly selecting and pursuing a single solution. While this approach has been widely used, it limits the program's resilience to changes in requirements and the availability of subsystems or components. To address these limitations, an alternative approach known as set-based design (SBD) has been proposed. While some studies have explored the benefits of SBD, there is currently no effective, scalable, and commercial SBD decision support platform that can guide program management and development with multi-stage and multi-criteria considerations. In response to this gap, this Phase II Sequential proposal seeks to develop and deploy a digital decision intelligence platform for Resilient Program Management & Development (RPMD) in collaboration with the DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center (GVSC) and PEO Ground Combat Systems (GCS). The proposed platform aims to enable the core tenets and process elements of SBD within a digital ecosystem, powered by modern decision analytics, intuitive workflows, effective controls, and proper knowledge management. By doing so, it can help to improve program resiliency, manage risks and uncertainties, and enhance cost efficiency and program success. The platform's development, refinement, and deployment will be the core focus of the project. The ultimate goal of this initiative is to realize the full potential of SBD for product development, benefitting the Army, the DoD, and commercial firms alike. By enabling a more effective and scalable approach to PD, the RPMD platform has the potential to drive innovation, accelerate time to market, and improve the performance and reliability of complex systems. |
| FA8649-23-9-9005 | Multidirectional Heat Flux Measurements from a Discrete Thermal Measurement Gauge | $1,345,280 | AHMIC AEROSPACE LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 07/24/2023 | 04/24/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The immediate future of U.S. hypersonic weapon development rests on the capabilities of current AF/DoD ground-test facilities. Engineering and design challenges are primarily addressed at these facilities, where computational models and relevant test arti |
| FA8649-23-P-0290 | Multi-directional Heat Flux Measurements from a Discrete Thermal Measurement Gage | $74,849 | AHMIC AEROSPACE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 02/01/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Measurements of heat flux are critical to successful testing and operation in hypersonic flow applications relevant to the Air Force. This is especially important on the surface of a body, as surface heat flux measurements predict future surface temperature, unlike a simple measurement of surface temperature alone. There are several methods to measure surface heat flux, however achieving accurate measurements is not trivial due to several sources of error. Lateral heating within the solid is one such source. Whether by diffusion, mismatched materials, or installation error, internal heat flow can significantly corrupt the measurement. Ahmic’s current commercial thermal measurement solution combines surface temperature gages with an innovative algorithm to resolve surface heat flux and account for lateral heating, however this approach requires several gages to be distributed over the measurement region. Under many test programs, sensor real estate is at a premium and compact solutions are required. To close this technology gap, Ahmic proposes an adaptation of its proven thermal measurement technology to resolve both normal and lateral heat flux on a single gage, significantly reducing measurement error in a physically compact package. Ahmic’s algorithm will also be adapted to accept multidirectional direct heat sources to support the new gage technology. |
| FA8649-23-P-0900 | Robotic Process Automation | $74,861 | [ AI ASSET MANAGEMENT LLC] | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/19/2023 | 08/17/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | AI Asset Management (AIAM) developed a solution to automatically locate and extract fields from any document by just specifying Field Names using Natural Language Processing (NLP)-based Artificial Intelligence (AI) methods for robotic process automation ( |
| FA8649-23-P-0596 | Optimizing cancer therapy and reducing cancer costs for the Air Force | $74,620 | AIGENE INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Cancer kills 600,000 every year in the US, more than any disease except heart disease, yet we have no single blood test for it. It accounts for nearly 40% of patients who have treatment costs of $200-300k per year, yet we have no generally applicable, rap |
| W911NF23P0026 | Air Structure Holistic Health & Readiness | $199,986 | [ AIR STRUCTURES AMERICAN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | A234-005 | 05/02/2023 | 08/02/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Air Structures American Technologies Inc (ASATI) has assembled the right team to develop a unique approach to solving the Army's need for the requisite infrastructure for the Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) Soldier Performance Readiness Center (SPRC). Utilizing an already proven air-supported structure, our proposal will reduce overall project costs, timelines, and construction risk while maintaining all of the structural qualities of conventional construction. With the current allotment budget of up to $6 million dollars ASATI is capable of building a facility up to 80,000 square feet and 80 feet tall. This larger facility would provide additional capabilities for the Brigades which we will be expanded on below. ASATI proposes manufacturing a facility that meets all of the criteria of the SPRC, as laid out in the Army Corps of Engineers Full SPRC Standard Tier 1 floor plan. Our design features an indoor track and a turf field that would allow all six elements of the Army Combat Fitness Test and training to be conducted indoors during any weather condition. These proposed upgrades to the SPRC will allow personal to not only elevate their ability to perform but enhance their quality of life during their time of service. ASATI has teamed up with Green Eagle and to test an alternative to concrete solution utilizing a new and innovative eco-friendly floor system. This system is strong enough to withstand the weight of an eighteen wheeler and alleviate the stress on soldiers joints that concrete flooring can generate. This floor system is also unique in its ability to adhere a multiple of different floor tops ranging from rubber to teak wood. In addition Green Eagle has a wall system that will interlock into this floor system for all the office requirements laid out in this Tier 1 floor plan. This system will dramatically decrease the build time for all the internal construction under the air structure. ASATI is a US-based air-supported structure manufacturing company. As the inventor of the air structure, ASATI has pioneered the industry by designing, building, and manufacturing every single "first of its kind" air structure which ranges across recreational, industrial, and military uses. With 27 Patents we have solved various industries' problems globally. From the heat of Dubai to the snows of Alaska, ASATI has provided climate-controlled spaces so work/play could continue uninterrupted by the elements. With a larger facility option the end user could tailor it to include a basketball/volley ball court, indoor soccer field/ football field, a dedicated area for the ACFT elements T-Pushups and medicine ball training. With the height and size of the air structure, airborne and air assault units have the ability to have a 70 foot tower under the air structure to facilitate unique unit training requirements. This larger facility could also be used to practice flying small recon drones and be utilized for an inclement option for a variety of ceremonies. |
| N68335-23-C-0471 | ArcSpear Electric Jet Drone Inspection Platform | $102,910 | AIRBUOYANT LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-071 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The ArcSpear Jet Drone is a compact, high-thrust, electric jet powered VTOL drone that can fly at very high speeds and carry heavy payloads within a very small footprint, configurable to customer needs. ArcSpear can be outfitted to meet the objectives of the mission sets described in this topic. The key differentiators of the ArcSpear are that it has no exposed rotor blades and yet still produces high thrust with standard quadcopter stability and ease of use. The ArcSpear can fit is small spaces and even bounce off of obstacles without being damaged, and can trade its high payload capacity for additional batteries, allowing it to perform higher-endurance missions. It is a tool in the toolkit, and can be used for a variety of taskings, outside of the mission parameters of this SBIR Topic, so that it has versatility and is not pigeon-holed into only one role. |
| FA8649-23-P-0072 | Data-Integrated Convertible Ventilator Circuit | $74,299 | [ AIRMID CRITICAL CARE PRODUCTS, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As learned from the COVID pandemic, treating lung inflammation requires extensive, intensive care resources and has a very high mortality. Yet, even before COVID, it was recognized that artificial ventilators are often set beyond natural lung capacity, directly causing lung injuries, while manual bag-type ventilators have no breath size control, resulting in inadvertent over-inflation. Unfortunately, no data is currently available to track damage being done by inadvertent overinflation. This affects patients being treated by USAF personnel during peacetime and when treating traumatic injuries. Patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) are particularly at risk, as over-inflation directly reduces blood flow to the injured brain, increasing death or, for survivors, post-injury disability. To address these unmet dangers, AirMid is developing a Data-Integrated Convertible Ventilator Circuit (DiCVC) that is compatible with AirMid’s Volume-Controlled Manual Ventilator (VCMV) and mechanical ventilators. This system will add the necessary elements to ensure patients receive Lung-Protective Ventilation (LPV), thereby ensuring breaths are tailored to safe limits specific to each patient. This, therefore, represents a new uncompromising standard of care that will provide first-ever protection from inadvertent harm that currently continues to drive high ICU resource use that translates into tens of billions in cost. |
| FA8649-23-P-0024 | Using Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) to Autonomously Conduct Base Perimeter Inspections | $1,249,230 | [ AIRTONOMY INC] | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 11/17/2022 | 08/19/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | nGrand Forks Air Force Base (GFAFB) is a sprawling installation on a 5,773 acre installation with 13 miles of perimeter fence-line. Many of these perimeter areas have limited monitoring capabilities due to a lack of grid power for fixed sensors and cameras. Installing sensors is impractical due to cost and time constraints and the remoteness of these areas. The squadron deploys teams of Defenders to manually patrol these remote perimeter stretches. The patrols equate to almost 3,000 hours per year dedicated to manual perimeter spot checks. Blizzard, tornado, and windstorm conditions can cause physical harm and limit the times of the year when physical patrols can practically occur. Consequently, a criminal, terrorist, or espionage agent can exploit these opportunities and breach the perimeter in areas where there are no sensors or when Defenders are not on patrol. The 319 RW hosts strategic aircraft and assets such as the RQ-4 Global Hawk and Space Development Agency facilities, which could come under threat. The 319 SFS has explored deploying small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS) to streamline force protection activities, however Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and base safety concerns prevent the technology’s broader adoption. Airtonomy, Inc. proposes a SBIR Direct to Phase II project to develop, test, and evaluate a first-of-its-kind sUAS automation capability to streamline and expand the perimeter security activities at GFAFB. For this project, Airtonomy, Inc. will conduct non-recurring research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) to develop a fully-functioning sUAS autonomous flight routine for the base’s security forces. With the fully developed capability, Defenders will be able to dispatch a sUAS on supervised autonomous aerial perimeter security flights instead of deploying its Defenders for hours on end in harsh environmental conditions. The proposed solution will include the creation of security assets within the UNITI platform. Using a Blue sUAS, a pilot will be able to launch an inspection of the base perimeter or a section. Pilots will have a simple-to-use interface that allows them to launch work at the push of a button. The flights will include do not fly zones as well as specific camera control to ensure that only the relevant areas are photographed. Upon completion of the flight, the drone will land and then automatically upload all captured data to UNITI where it will be automatically associated with the real-world asset. This will include Computer Vision algorithms to detect human activity, fence defects, and vegetation along the fence line. The mission impact of this project will be to expand security situational awareness, provide a manpower force multiplier, and streamline manual security activities using sUAS automation that ultimately keeps air bases and DoD installations safe from attacks. |
| FA8649-23-P-0772 | Airtonomy Automated Platform for sUAS Detection and Monitoring of Bird and Other Wildlife Hazards | $74,463 | [ AIRTONOMY INC] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/01/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Bird and wildlife strikes endanger Airmen and aircraft safety. Current Department of the Air Force (DAF) Bird/wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard (BASH) detection and mitigation measures are highly manual, cost-prohibitive, and limited in their detection capa |
| FA8649-23-P-0775 | Airtonomy Automated Platform for sUAS Detection and Monitoring of Underground Leaks | $74,463 | [ AIRTONOMY INC] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/01/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Underground water leaks from damaged or ruptured utilities pipes are a highly dangerous, labor-intensive, and operationally disruptive occurrence for Department of the Air Force (DAF) air bases and installations. Identifying these incidents is extremely d |
| FA2394-23-C-B035 | Large Sol-gel Monoliths for Optical Power Limiting | $1,249,864 | [www.akitainnovations.com AKITA INNOVATIONS LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D009 | 09/08/2023 | 09/08/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In this project, Akita will develop methods and materials to increase the size of dye-containing optical elements, specifically sol-gel glasses, to diameters of at least 3” and thicknesses of at least 1 cm. This will involve modifications to both the mat |
| N68335-23-C-0450 | Permanent Elastomeric Radar Array Cover | $146,457 | [www.akitainnovations.com AKITA INNOVATIONS LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | N231-033 | 07/13/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | In this project Akita Innovations will design and test materials for a permanent, removable/repairable, and elastomeric protective cover for AN/SPY-1 radar arrays. The cover will use an elastomer and reinforcing material that are highly transparent to RF in the 2 - 4 GHz frequency range. The cover will be fabricated by a method that does not require an oven and is compatible with making large (14' or larger) items, and it will be flexible so that it can be rolled up for transportation and storage. The cover will be installed by stretching it over the radar array, and the seal at the edges will be provided by both friction (the cover will have a well-defined lip to secure itself over the array) and a bead of applied adhesive/sealant that will only be present around the edges of the array. The cover will be designed to be water-repellent (intrinsically so and with the option of a hydrophobic coating to boost water repellence) and resistant to cuts, punctures, and tears from impact of hail or objects. It will also use materials chosen for minimal water absorption since water attenuates RF energy, and to effectively seal out seawater from penetrating onto or into the radar array. One object of the Phase I work will be to determine how thick the cover can be made to provide maximum mechanical protection without losing too much RF transparency. A second object of the Phase I work will be to evaluate several candidate materials for the elastomer and the reinforcing material to see which provide the best RF properties in the frequency range of interest and the best mechanical properties and easiest fabrication (though RF properties will be the most important). A third object of the Phase I work will be to trial fabrication methods for the covers at small scale, and to produce small (about 2' square) samples adequate for the RF and mechanical testing. We will also perform computer modelling of the RF properties of candidate materials in Phase I to guide materials selection. In the Phase I option we will continue to refine the models of RF behavior and advance the planning for materials selection and will plan Phase II work and put in place any additional necessary clearances necessary for Phase II work. The result of the Phase I effort will be modelling and experimental data that will facilitate the production of prototype covers in Phase II that can be used to advance the TRL and MRL of the system. |
| FA8649-23-P-0149 | Albedo - 10cm Imagery for Tactical ISR Missions | $74,503 | ALBEDO SPACE CORP. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Albedo is designing and building the first very low earth orbit (VLEO) constellation of twenty-four 10 cm GSD electro-optical + 2m thermal infrared (EO/TIR) satellites that will produce 9x the number of pixels over an area compared to today’s 30 cm best-in-class satellites from Maxar, and 25x the pixels from the more common 50cm resolution Planet Skysats. The low cost, ubiquitously available (when at scale), and unclassified imagery will allow Air/Space Force ISR professionals a significant advantage identifying enemy military aircraft and vehicles and their movements. Higher resolution pixels provide the additional detail required for feature recognition to fingerprint a single military vehicle. With higher resolution and AI, timelines to identify military vehicles can decrease to less than 1% of the time needed for humans to perform the task unaided. In addition, confidence in those AI or human detections can increase 30% or more with Albedo’s higher resolution. |
| FA8649-23-P-0474 | High Resolution night time LWIR Performance | $1,249,990 | ALBEDO SPACE CORP. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/07/2023 | 11/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Albedo is designing a constellation of 24 commercial satellites that will be capable of imaging at the highest resolution available in the commercial market, providing 10cm resolution visible and 2-meter resolution thermal infrared imaging. This is a mass |
| FA8750-23-C-0003 | SHELL GAME | $1,237,304 | ALESIA ENGINEERING LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D008 | 01/06/2023 | 02/06/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Satellite communications (SATCOM) are widely used throughout the Department of Defense (DoD). For some systems (e.g., remotely piloted aircraft -- RPA), it is a fundamental requirement and without reliable SATCOM, these systems cannot operate. In spite of this, SATCOM does not receive the attention allotted to other military logistics. Often, it is purchased and operated in per-mission stovepipes. As a result, it is poorly coordinated, nor optimized, nor evaluated against a thinking opponent. The outcome is an architecture that is inefficient and fragile, susceptible to the effects of increasing congestion and aggressive adversaries. Until recently, the environment was benign and poorly coordinated services were adequate, for military and commercial users. Current events make it clear: the electronic warfare (EW) fight is on, and the United States (U.S.) is ill-prepared to win. The lack of understanding of SATCOM vulnerabilities will increase the odds of the U.S. being significantly challenged during combat operations in an Anti-Access Area Denial (A2AD) environment. Likewise for civilian and commercial users, we have seen with Russian EW attacks in Ukraine, that the battlefield is not limited to military operations and commercial television providers were targeted and infrastructure items like windmills were damaged. In this document, Alesia Engineering LLC proposes the development of a SATCOM Survivability Analysis Toolkit under project SHELL GAME to identify and quantify all impacts that have the potential to degrade, deny, intercept, or geolocate activity on current or future SATCOM links across any physical domain (land, air, sea, space) to support defensive, offensive, and wargaming purposes. SHELL GAME will develop a suite of analytical tools to develop a deep understanding of the EW perspective for the SATCOM environment, thus enabling users to develop robust plans in the face of demanding requirements and resource constraints. This toolkit will ingest and sanitize heterogeneous data, support complex queries (e.g., geolocation), reduce analysis effort, and speed timelines. SHELL GAME will enable the U.S. to prepare the SATCOM battle-space, to practice in simulated contested environments (e.g., war-game) and if necessary, “fight” SATCOM at the speed of battle. |
| N68335-23-C-0411 | Improved Physics Modeling for Sand Particulate Tracking and Deposition in Gas Turbine Engines | $146,499 | ALIR TECHNOLOGIES LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T003 | 06/05/2023 | 11/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | The effect of particle ingestion in gas turbine engines has become a significant problem in recent decades. Commercial and military aircraft and helicopter engines currently operate over various terrains with particles. Vehicles near the ocean, for example, typically come across sea spray, which contains fine particulates of salt and can lead to the quick corrosion of metallic engine parts inside gas turbine (GT) engines. Volcanic terrains are also considered harmful to engine performance and durability. One particular problem that has been of recent interest is particle reactivity of sand and volcanic particles. Solid particles are already an issue due to the corrosion they cause to the surface and coatings of the engine blades. Due to the already high combustion temperatures and increasing engine temperatures in state-of-the-art gas turbine engines, these particles can also melt and adhere to engine surfaces such as stators and rotors. This program is proposed to improve existing high-fidelity multi-physics tool for predicting sand particle impact in gas turbine engine. The improvements are realized through the combination of more efficient yet accurate techniques for particle tracking, collision, and deposition, exploiting recent advancements in hybrid HPC architecture, numerical algorithms, artificial intelligence and use of data science. The proposed improvements will also potentially reduce data storage significantly. |
| SP4701-23-P-0026 | Improved surface interface of OPF and PAN carbon fibers for Carbon-Carbon processing | $99,437 | ALKEMIX CORPORATION | STTR | Phase I | DLA23A-003 | 08/22/2023 | 02/22/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Specialized materials such as Carbon-Carbon (C-C) are required as primary structural and thermal protection elements to sustain the severe temperatures on the surface of Hypersonic Vehicles during high-speed flight. The C-C material currently qualified at Northrop in Hypersonic Glide-Bodies or “Aeroshells” consist of phenolic resin and a low fired, stretch broken polyacrylonitrile fiber (LFSP) and/or blended stretch broken polyacrylonitrile fiber (BSP) pre-preg. Both fiber solutions have been found to be suitable replacements for the rayon-based carbon phenolic used in tape wrapped rocket nozzles and 2D C-C components. The LFSP and the BSP input fibers originally made from TOHO (Rockfield, TN) are no longer available. The stretch breaking process employed to reduce the modulus and thermal conductivity of the Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber has also changed ownership with key processes and technical know-how potentially lost. A domestically sourced PAN has been identified for the LFSP product, while domestic fibers needed for the BSP replacement are available yet still require further optimization. Each were developed as domestically sourced, industry standard products that would reduce the obsolescence risks associated with past and current Rayon fiber supply chains. Rayon fiber used in C-C applications would progress thru a series of cleaning, firing, and purification steps prior to resin coating. Due to this process, the sizing added by the fiber manufacturers to aid in handling and weaving is removed, alleviating potential interface issues with phenolic and pitch resins used in C-C processing. PAN fiber manufacturers are focused on epoxy and polyester based resin systems used in the automotive, aircraft, and sporting good markets. These resin systems are defined as addition-based reactions which produce little to no volatiles during curing. The sizing used on the PAN fiber for these resin systems are monomer or copolymer acetates which will not survive high temperature processing environments. Furthermore, some of these sizing solutions are soluble in water. Phenolic resin is a condensation reaction system which produces water during the curing and cross-linking process, potentially degrading the fiber-to-resin interface. The objective of this development is to remove the epoxy compatible sizing off the PAN fiber and re-size the PAN fiber with a chemistry that is compatible with phenolic and other high temperature capable resins used in C-C processes. Alkemix Corp. will employ a team-based development approach with the PAN and OPF fiber manufacturer and Oak Ridge National Laboratory to implement our solutions and validate our deliverables. |
| SP4701-23-C-0032 | Aerospace Grade Silica fabric for Thermal Insulation | $500,000 | ALKEMIX CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | DLA231-D07 | 08/17/2023 | 08/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | The US missile defense industry employes extensive usage of silica fabric reinforced composites in nozzle, motor case, leading and control surface insulation. Silica fabric reinforced phenolic insulators have been designed into strategic and tactical propulsion systems since the 1950s. The original systems using molded silica phenolic nozzles and insulators for metal structure were pathfinders for today’s systems’ designs for multiple components, flight surface structure and structural insulation reinforcement components. The current sole source supplier of aerospace grade silica fabric occupies the same facility since 1922, the former H.I. Thompson Company in Gardena, CA. The former HITCO, recently the former SGL and Avcarb Corp. is now acquired by TexTech Industries which must imminently vacate the Gardena site. Nearly 100 years of legacy acid processing equipment surely is incapable of relocation. The national strategic and tactical defense requirements necessitate a competent and current state of the art facility to support the next 50 years of secure silica insulation material production for strategic and tactical systems. Alkemix is pleased to engage within a current commercial silica supplier and provide the technical process pathway to produce and validate aerospace grade silica for ablative and insulative applications. |
| FA8649-23-P-0954 | Real-Time Sensor Fusion for Digital Twins in the Metaverse | $74,413 | ALLOSENSE, INC. | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Allosense proposes an advanced sensor fusion capability where sensor data is aggregated to a digital twin for generating a common operating picture (COP) and assessing base operations. The objective of Phase I is to collaborate with defense stakeholders a |
| FA8649-23-P-0614 | Mariner Distributed Smart Battery Controller | $74,910 | ALLOCORTECH INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | A given electric aircraft’s mission capabilities are limited by its power system. The current standard power system for small to mid-sized aircraft (UAS Groups 2-3) consists of a single, or split centralized battery. Heterogeneous distributed battery arc |
| FA9453-23-P-A030 | ArcSat | $149,890 | [www.alluvionic.com ALLUVIONIC INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | SF222-0021 | 12/15/2022 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To address the Air Force’s need for better interactions from the presence of end users with supervisory and decision-making roles in contested PNT services, Alluvionic proposes ArcSat, to reduce or eliminate requirements for user PNT interactions for autonomous PNT equipment resilience. ArcSat is a system designed such that PNT data could not be spoofed or jammed, by using methodologies to analyze received celestial radio frequency (RF) and use Doppler principles and orbital physics to determine exact receiver position with GPS accuracy. By eliminating jamming or spoofing while simultaneously adding PNT sources, ArcSat exponentially increases the effectivity of autonomous PNT systems. ArcSat is an alternative precision PNT for contested and GPS-denied environments using both cooperative and uncooperative RF satellite signals for passive celestial navigation. In this Phase I effort, Alluvionic will design and build an ArcSat simulation model capable of either reducing or completely eliminating human-in-the-loop requirements in contested environments such as tactical edge and hypersonic weapons. Theoretical testing will be conducted with the simulation model. If successful, Alluvionic will develop a plan for future development and prototyping of the ArcSat technology in Phase II. |
| SP4701-23-C-0035 | FlyBall | $1,000,000 | [www.alluvionic.com ALLUVIONIC INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | DLA222-002 | 07/31/2023 | 07/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | To meet the Defense Logistics Agency’s need for new and qualified sources of technology that will improve products for electrified systems in military and commercial aircraft, Alluvionic proposes a non-chemical battery, electric storage technology named FlyBall. This research will analyze how a disruptive mechanical kinetic energy storage feature set, such as FlyBall’s, would enable multiple electrification efforts by eliminating LION chemical battery limitations. In this Phase II effort, Alluvionic will conduct RDT&E to build a functional prototype that can be used to demonstrate scale capabilities of FlyBall and to identify any areas that need further development. The laboratory prototype will be used to test and validate the FlyBall Phase I hypothesis of performance and efficiency at scale. This information will be used to refine the design of the FlyBall and to optimize its performance for future full-scale production. |
| FA8649-23-P-0617 | ArcSat: Alternative GPS Solution | $74,825 | [www.alluvionic.com ALLUVIONIC INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To address the Air Force’s need for an alternative to GPS-based navigation, Alluvionic proposes ArcSat, a system methodology to analyze received celestial radio frequency and use Doppler principles and orbital physics to determine exact receiver position |
| W5170123C0018 | Precision Interferometric Imaging Radar for Autonomous Off-Road Mobility | $1,699,858 | ALOFT SENSING INC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-009 | 11/29/2022 | 05/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8649-23-P-0473 | US-Based High-Speed I/O for Space-Based Defense Applications | $1,249,999 | ALPHACORE INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/22/2023 | 11/22/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The US Space Force (SF) wishes to advance existing dual-purpose interface technology for its modernization priorities in broadly identified segments. A rad-hard SerDes is a “must” technology to have in any electronic system, or a set of systems, in which |
| FA8650-23-P-1080 | GeSn Infrared Detectors Grown Directly on Si Readout Integrated Circuit for FPA Integration | $149,925 | ALPHACORE INC | STTR | Phase I | AF22A-T006 | 12/19/2022 | 09/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The AF22A-T006 STTR topic “Development of Integrated Infrared Focal Plane Arrays on Si, Requiring No Hybridization” seeks to develop infrared focal plane arrays (FPAs) directly onto silicon readout integrated circuitry without hybridization, operating at |
| FA8649-23-P-0334 | Fast-Response Event-Based Image Sensor and Camera | $74,880 | ALPHACORE INC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 12/09/2022 | 03/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | A critical need for fast response event-based visible wavelength and infrared (IR) cameras involving many Air Force and Space Force stakeholders as well as prime contractor companies has been identified. The current event-based camera technologies suffer from long latency and low array utilization rate, which makes them not suitable for many defense applications with dynamic scenes and requirements for fast response. Alphacore proposes to develop and deliver an event-based image sensor and a complete camera system that has low latency, high array utilization rate and extremely high timing accuracy. Alphacore has extensive experience in developing picosecond-level timing accuracy event-based readouts for pixelated detector arrays for high energy physics programs and these designs have been leveraged in the development of the novel architecture that significantly surpasses the capabilities of the current SoA sensors available for DoD. Alphacore will make the sensor and camera radiation hardened to allow use in space applications. |
| W912CG23P0001 | Grid Array Side-channel Probe (GASP) | $249,853 | ALPHACORE INC | SBIR | Phase I | HR0011SB20224-15 | 01/12/2023 | 08/11/2023 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Heterogeneous Integrated Circuits (HIC) combine different ICs into a single package. In this DARPA Phase I SBIR, Alphacore and our partner Riscure will conduct a feasibility study to create a method of identifying which ICs are in a package through available side channels, without opening the package. A Grid-Array Side-channel Probe (GASP) system will be studied for possible development, comprising as many as 16 coil, with each coil simultaneously capturing the electromagnetic (EM) signals from the HIC. The HIC is provided with a stimulus (e.g., power on, or starting a particular device function), and the resulting electromagnetic side channels are captured. We are developing this coil matrix specifically for this research, while the capture and analysis equipment will be based on Riscure’s Inspector SCA tool suite. In Phase I, the team will explore six aspects of investigation and classification of side channels in a HIC: Validation vehicle creation Signal capture (pre- or post-silicon) Source separation Feature extraction Learning Classification Pre-silicon capture of signals can be used during the learning phase if the design details of the target are available, e.g., in the malicious behavior monitor use case. Pre-silicon signal capture is done by leveraging the existing simulation techniques of the DARPA SCATE program to capture traces for individual ICs. As the number of templates grows, neural networks can be leveraged both in the feature extraction phase and the learning and matching phase, allowing generalization from ICs that have been characterized, to unknown ICs. The classification takes as input an ‘unknown’ feature vector and the learned templates. It will provide a confidence score for each template, and thereby which IC / function is most likely. For the identification use case, the output is which IC / function is detected for each of the 16 signals that will be probed individually by the GASP system. For the malicious behavior monitor use case, the output is a confidence value for each of the 16 of observing malicious behavior. As described, this method is a framework that can be extended with more templates, improved feature detection, different side channel sources, and so on, hence realizing a future (iterative) improvement path. We expect the method above to be able to classify with great accuracy both which ICs are in a HIC, as well as malicious behavior of a HIC.? DARPA’s stated objectives for the Phase I study are to demonstrate a framework with an 80% probability of detecting various functions and components, and a 0.01% false positives rate, on a HIC with 2 ICs. The framework should be extendable, e.g., with improved analysis techniques and different side channel sources. Based on our plan, we believe that these objectives will be met. (For a follow-up Phase II, a 90% detection rate, 0.01% false positive rate on a 4 IC HIC is targeted.) |
| W51701-23-C-0234 | IRIS: InfraRed Imager optimized for low SWAP | $249,882 | ALPHACORE INC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-013 | 09/11/2023 | 12/14/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA9101-23-P-B066 | DART: Detector Arrays with high Radiometric accuracy and NIST Traceability | $179,944 | ALPHACORE INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0008 | 06/21/2023 | 03/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In response to Department of defense SBIR topic AF231-008, Alphacore Inc. will develop a versatile Radiometric Calibration system for imaging system calibration using its own proprietary two color infrared readout integrated circuit (ROIC). This ROIC will |
| N68335-23-C-0417 | Tipoff Optic Recon Sensor TORCH | $139,934 | ALPHACORE INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-013 | 06/12/2023 | 12/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Alphacore will develop a MWIR ROIC, FPA and a full camera system to perceive, identify, and track hypersonic vehicle threats. The developed optical system will be a unique cost-effective, distributed, early-warning sensing solution. Alphacore will demonstrate critical elements of this advanced optical system design for the detection, identification, and tracking of hypersonic cruise missiles to provide early cueing of fixed-site and ship self-defense systems in a tiered fixed and mobile network utilizing both unmanned and manned platform concepts. This includes the definition of sensor carrying requirements in terms of power, volume, weight, noise limitations, motion limitations, and so forth; Identification of specific configuration(s) to be included; And the development of the strategy and design of integration and scale of the autonomous platform. A central innovative element in Alphacore’s solution is the ROIC that has 2k x 2k pixels and frame rate of 2.5kfps for full resolution, with very high frame rate for smaller regions of interest (e.g. 160kfps for 256 x 256 ROI). Alphacore’s ROIC has both conventional frame based and novel event based readout mechanisms. The event-based imaging architecture is excellent for low latency threat warning functionality. It also consumes very low power, which is important for a MWIR ROIC that is placed inside the cryocooled dewar. |
| FA8650-23-P-1018 | Ultra-wideband High Efficiency Power Amplifier for Multifunction RF Systems | $149,956 | ALPHACORE INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0020 | 01/11/2023 | 10/11/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Alphacore is proposing a high-efficiency solid state power amplifier (SSPA) capable of operation across a variety of possible radar transmitter and EW applications of interest to the AF for achieving battlespace dominance. The proposed wideband Ku-band SSPA for radar microwave sensing applications perfectly meets requirements wideband and high efficiency operation with competitive SWaP-C advantages and benefits of its excellent performance specifications, based on its previous Alphacore designs. Alphacore proposes to design, simulate, and verify a fully integrated SSPA for Ku-band applications. The proposed SSPA architecture utilizes a gallium nitride (GaN) process in order to provide high output power added efficiency (PAE), and speed. The SSPA will 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%). It will be designed using a gallium nitride on silicon carbide (GaN-on-SiC) process and will have an extended frequency range from 64 GHz to 72 GHz to compensate any process, voltage, and temperature variation. The design will have an operating temp range from -55˚C to +85˚C with temperature compensation circuitry accommodate a stretch goal of –55C to 125C. To achieve an output power of greater than 10 Watts, the SSPA will be designed by combining the generated power of separate PA MMICs. |
| HQ072723P0021 | Ultra-Wideband Voltage Controlled Oscillator with Multi-Mode Operations | $197,253 | ALPHACORE INC | SBIR | Phase I | DMEA231-006 | 08/07/2023 | 02/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Microelectronics Activity | The U.S. Dept of Defense is seeking a low power (< 30mA @ 3V), US-sourced, ultra-wideband voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO). Fuzing applications that employ Height of Burst (HOB) sensors utilize specialized chipsets that set the operating range and output power for these systems, and different applications require specific parameters given operational environments, input power, form factor, etc. Therefore, to ensure maximum adjustability and design reuse for different applications, Alphacore will conduct a feasibility study of the design tradeoffs of an ultra-wideband VCO with a tunable frequency range of 4-12 GHz. The DoD requires a VCO that “targets a tuning sensitivity of 50MHz/V per step across 0-3.3V, power dissipation to be less than 315mW at 85C and single side band (SSB) phase noise @ 100 kHz offset to be less than -93 dBc/Hz at each center frequency.” This program is a strong match to Alphacore’s existing mixed-signal IP product line including high performance PLL and SerDes IP, as well as our low-power, high-speed data converter IP. We have a commercially available wide tuning range, low jitter PLL IP – named PLL13G on our website (https://www.alphacoreinc.com/en/analog-mixed-signal-and-rf-solutions/products) – with a tuning range of 5.5 GHz to 13.5 GHz, jitter of 0.35ps, and power consumption of under 60 mW. This is an excellent starting point for us to pursue the feasibility study for this program and achieve reduced risks. In Phase II, we will build, test and deliver a fully functional ultra-wideband VCO prototype based on the design developed in Phase I. |
| FA8649-23-P-1211 | Fast-Response Event-Based Image Sensor and Camera | $1,249,927 | ALPHACORE INC | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 07/26/2023 | 04/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Event-based cameras are novel sensors that output brightness changes in the form of a stream of asynchronous "events" instead of intensity frames. Compared to conventional image sensors, they offer significant advantages: high temporal resolution, high dy |
| N68335-23-C-0314 | Wideband Multi-Element Optical Receiver | $999,837 | ALPHACORE INC | SBIR | Phase II | N212-126 | 07/10/2023 | 07/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | As a response to the Navy SBIR Topic N212-126, GHz Optical Underwater Detection Receiver, Alphacore will develop a wide bandwidth, multi-element optical receiver to enable the extraction of both reflectivity and range features of objects in water. This proposed work will integrate advanced compact photo detectors with Alphacore’s innovative high-speed readout technology. The proposed system will be optimized for optical sensitivity in the blue-green wavelengths (400nm to 560nm) with sufficient dynamic range to detect signals in high clutter environments. In Phase II, Alphacore will design, fabricate and test prototype 750 x 1 and 750 x 2 pixels monolithic underwater lidar receivers. The main parameters of the design are >2GHz bandwidth, 10GSPS sampling rate, >1,000 samples buffer length in every pixel, >60dB SNR and linearity and programmable sampling rate and bandwidth. Alphacore’s solution is a monolithic CMOS IC that contains the sensitive linear mode avalanche photodiodes (APD) and all other needed functionality, including waveform samplers, digitizers, serializers and I/Os. The sampler architecture is based on a high-bandwidth transimpedance amplifier followed by highly linear track and hold stages. The 1,000-samplers-per-pixel architecture enables up to 100ns of sampled signal on the 10GS/s mode and 200ns on 5GS/s mode. Bandwidth is 2GHz and it can be traded off with power dissipation using a programmable setting. The sampling rate and buffer length are programmable as well. The first design version to undergo a tapeout will be a 750 x 1 and 750 x 2 -pixels arrays, the number of elements limited by the edge length (27mm) of the reticle in the selected CMOS process. However, several chips can be “mechanically” cascaded to provide more pixels, 4,500 x 1, as an example. 4,500 x 2 array is possible as well with the selected high-bandwidth, high-sampler-count architecture. This arrangement could be used for dual band receiver, as an example. Alphacore proposes the following approach to complete a prototype wideband, multi-element optical receiver by the end of Phase II. Optimize and send to fabrication high bandwidth lidar receiver design. The already designed and simulated ASIC will be taped out and tested. Evaluate the High Bandwidth Lidar Receiver IC design functionality. Alphacore will evaluate multi-element avalanche photodiodes (APDs) in linear mode with wide input bandwidths and low input noise. Alphacore will design, fabricate and characterize test boards, and our test laboratory has all the needed test equipment and the basic IC functionality testing will take place there. Option Period: Integrate the Lidar Receiver IC with optics and a FPGA based camera system and test in simulated Marine environment. The tested Lidar Receiver IC from the base period will be integrated with commercially available optical elements identified in the Phase II Base period. |
| FA8649-23-P-1243 | Spectral Pteron | $1,250,000 | ALPINE METHOD TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/05/2023 | 03/04/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The purpose of this project is to deliver capability that will improve the End-User’s performance of situational assessment tasks in support of Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB) operational orders (OPORDS) received to conduct Intelligence |
| W5170123C0113 | HYDROS - Hybrid Diver Readiness Observation System | $149,442 | ALTEC, INC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-004 | 03/30/2023 | 07/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W51701-23-C-0272 | HYDROS - Hybrid Diver Readiness Observation System | $2,999,647 | ALTEC, INC | SBIR | Phase II | A234-004 | 09/06/2023 | 06/13/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0562 | ISA Simplifying Interconnect with Realtime Verification | $1,670,454 | ALTIUS SPACE MACHINES, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 02/23/2023 | 05/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The space assets of the United States are now a fundamental component of our national defense framework. A loss of control of the Space Domain would cripple our national security. Coincident with that truth is the advent of commercial industry as a key so |
| FA9453-23-P-A006 | Docking Anchoring and Towing Universal Match-plate (DATUM) for DoD Spacecraft | $149,877 | ALTIUS SPACE MACHINES, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | SF222-0011 | 12/22/2022 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As the in-space ecosystem has continued to grow, industry has developed considerable interest in various forms of modular spacecraft interfaces. These include grapple interfaces, power transfer interfaces, fluid transfer interfaces, and hosted payload platforms. Many companies have developed hardware to fill one or more of these missions; however, up to the present no company has developed an interface that is simultaneously both an excellent in-space docking interface and can support large payloads through the vibration of the launch environment. The Docking, Anchoring and Towing Universal Match-plate (DATUM) interface is the solution to allow for a truly universal androgynous interface capable of meeting all requirements for docking and launch lock. DATUM offers a combination several benefits that no existing interface can currently provide. These advantages include: Androgynous: DATUM is an identical interface for each half, allowing a single design to be mounted and deployed across many systems, ensuring intercompatibility across the ecosystem Capture at a Distance: Altius’ Dual-Mode electropermanent magnet (EPM) gripper provides magnetic attraction force across distances as far as 5 to 10 cm, allowing for safer and more reliable capture CONOPS than traditional docking methods, and pure planar contact is all that is needed to establish a “soft dock” between the two halves No-power Hold: The EPMs and mechanical locks will maintain a holding force even through a power loss event Magnetic Attraction and Repulsion: The centrally mounted EPM module can reverse polarity on command, changing a magnetic attraction force into a magnetic repulsion force to separate the two interface halves when undocking Combined Fluid/Power/Data Transfer: DATUM has provisions for power, data, and fluid transfer all in the same interface, allowing the same universal connector to be used for nearly all payloads, from RF antennas and apertures to propellant storage tanks Self-Alignment Geometry: The geometry of the DATUM structure provides self-alignment while mating, greatly increasing the capture envelope and reliability of a successful docking mission Launch Lock Load Reaction: Datum utilizes secondary mechanical locks which can be set by a manual operator or autonomously driven, allowing the interface to be used as a launch-lock and deployment mechanism for payloads integrated on the ground During Phase I, Altius will perform design trades to refine the conceptual design of the DATUM to become optimized for AFRL’s technical and cost requirements. This will be followed by detailed design of a Phase 1 ground prototype, and the build and test of two DATUM interfaces, including cycle testing and vibration testing. This will raise the DATUM design to TRL 4 from an initial TRL 2. In Phase II, Altius will refine the design and qualify it for the launch and space environments to be ready for deployment on a follow-on technology demonstration mission. |
| W51701-23-C-0132 | Armament System AI Data Logger & Architecture | $1,699,657 | ALTRON, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A224-002 | 05/22/2023 | 06/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0432 | Software Incident Report Capture and Scripting | $146,108 | ALTRON, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-029 | 07/26/2023 | 02/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Complex Naval control systems go through numerous rounds of rigorous testing often spanning multiple years. As testers execute formalized assessments during these test events, issues arise, and the issues are documented in software problem reports (SPRs). Multiple factors may limit the ability of a tester to properly document issues for future replication or investigation, such as the rapid pace and sensitivity at which the tests are performed. When the issue gets assigned to a developer, significant data required to repeat or categorize the issue may not be available due to lack of documentation or amplifying information. Situations like these lead to a significant number of problem reports going unresolved and delivered in the deployed product. Altron is proposing to conduct research and development (R&D) to determine the technical feasibility of creating a novel technology that will perform data aggregation and data analytics to correlate system inputs, system logs and metadata to support SPR capture. As the data types fed into this correlation algorithm increase, an ontology will be created that categorizes and details the bugs. These captured details will help unburden testers from having to investigate many bugs themselves. Instead, they can create a SPR with the details this technology provides and continue with their test plan. With this comprehensive dataset captured by the technology, developers will have reliable recreation and amplifying information at their disposal to diagnose issues. |
| FA8649-23-P-0236 | aiWARE Operating System for Artificial Intelligence | $74,994 | [ ALYNMNT DEV I LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The trajectory of the digital transformation of today’s systems require a high level of automation to keep up with the data driven battlespace. The USAF needs a MLOps/DevSecOps foundation to Rapidly Process Automate (RPA) existing and new data types. Analysts face overwhelming amounts of data to process, correlate, understand and react to—applied in an Observe, Orient, Decide, Act (OODA) loop approach. It’s imperative to adopt flexible AI solutions to force multiply domain expertise and understanding in the field. alYnmnt Dev I, LLC (alYnmnt), is a leading provider of AI technology and solutions. These solutions are built on top of an AI operating system called aiWARE. aiWARE orchestrates scalable, adaptable, and interconnected AI/ML frameworks to help an organization build, deploy, monitor and test their data processing pipelines and notification outputs. Its open architecture enables customers in the media, entertainment, legal, DevOps, compliance, and government sectors to easily deploy applications that leverage the power of AI to dramatically improve operational efficiency and effectiveness. alYnmnt will perform a feasibility study with the 480th ISR Wing and AF Distributed Common Ground System (DCGS) to explore our software capability to help optimize intelligence analyst performance and operations. We will leverage one of aiWARE’s tools called Automate Studio to create orchestrated AI/ML workflows, to access and pull from various structured and unstructured data feeds, and to share the workflows and datasets with others within the organization, enabling the 480th ISRW to accomplish more with less and respond to mission threats in real time |
| FA8649-23-P-0418 | Intuitive Interactive Electronic Technical Manuals (Class-6) for Next-Generation Ground Based Strategic Deterrent Systems | $74,400 | AMERICAN DATA SOLUTIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 12/05/2022 | 03/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Multipurpose Digital Data Viewer (MDDV) is the only integrative electronic technical manual of its kind on the market, uniquely built to enable condition based maintenance plus (CBM+), streamlining maintenance tasks and enabling predictive maintenance capabilities. While other IETMs rely on S1000D data, MDDV can ingest and display any data format, making it the most versatile IETM available. Additionally, because MDDV seamlessly automates data conversion and validation/verification, it eliminates costly, time-consuming conversion. MDDV automates repetitive processes, eliminating 99% of user paperwork. The system anticipates end user needs, increasing the amount of time end users can spend doing their mission essential work. ADS is proposing the adaptation of MDDV for use on the LGM-35A Sentinel, a ground based strategic deterrent replacing the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) to enable predictive maintenance capabilities and rapid system repair. |
| FA8649-23-P-0675 | Amalgamated Vision Optical Technology For Superior Military Head Mounted Display User Experience | $74,880 | AMALGAMATED VISION, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Amalgamated Vision (AV) is an optical engineering company designing optical engines forehead mounted display. Based upon laser beam scanning, virtual retinal display and using an innovative diffuser / pancake lens design, our system is incredibly small, w |
| FA8649-23-P-0423 | A Next-Generation(Class-6) Interactive Electronic Technical Manual and Weapons Management System for the F-16 | $74,400 | AMERICAN DATA SOLUTIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 12/05/2022 | 03/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Multipurpose Digital Data Viewer (MDDV) is the only integrative electronic technical manual of its kind on the market, uniquely built to enable condition based maintenance plus (CBM+), streamlining maintenance tasks and enabling predictive maintenance capabilities. While other IETMs rely on S1000D data, MDDV can ingest and display any data format, making it the most versatile IETM available. Additionally, because MDDV seamlessly automates data conversion and validation/verification, it eliminates costly, time-consuming conversion. MDDV automates repetitive processes, eliminating 99% of user paperwork. The system anticipates end user needs, increasing the amount of time end users can spend doing their mission essential work. ADS is proposing the adaptation of MDDV for use in the F-16 Fighting Falcon to increase fleet readiness by enabling predictive maintenance, establishing a preventative maintenance schedule, and streamlining parts ordering and paperwork. |
| FA8649-23-P-0910 | Domestic source of semiconducting carbon nanotubes for advanced chemical sensors | $74,761 | AMERICAN NANOTECHNOLOGIES INC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Semiconducting carbon nanotubes (s-CNTs) have been used to build thin, flexible sensors relevant to the DoD mission. These include both physical sensors, such as stress/strain and temperature sensors, and chemical sensors, such as biomarker or toxic compo |
| N68335-23-C-0447 | Rugged HTS Wire Bundles for Shipboard Installation and Use | $139,888 | [www.amsc.com AMERICAN SUPERCONDUCTOR CORPORATION] | SBIR | Phase I | N231-040 | 08/25/2023 | 02/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Navy has explored the use of High Temperature Superconductors (HTS) to address some of their increasing power needs. HTS Degaussing is the most developed application and HTS Degaussing has been designed into the LPD surface combatant. Although HTS ADG is addressing the key challenges associated with copper DG systems, initial cable installations on LPD28 (lead ship) have identified some installation risks with HTS ADG cable that are unique to the HTS ADG cable fabrication process. This risk is associated with the fact that HTS ADG cables are made to length, terminated and tested in the factory prior to shipping. The termination and testing reduces installation time on the ship and mitigates light off risks respectively, however, the completed cable arriving to the shipyard at a fixed length presents a paradigm shift for the shipbuilder. This length discrepancy was compensated for via several actions for the LPD28 platform but it has generated discussion on how to mitigate possible length discrepancies in future installs. This proposal is an initial step in that effort. |
| FA8649-23-P-0850 | Enabling Domestic Supply and Manufacturing Chain for Carbon Products | $73,685 | AMERICARBON PRODUCTS, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | AmeriCarbon will utilize its proprietary and patented pilot scale Eco-Pitch process to demonstrate the technical and economic feasibility of customizing tailored coal derived carbon pitch material needed for advanced carbon products such as graphite. This |
| W911NF23C0026 | Widely Tunable III-V Based Epsilon-near-zero tunneling diodes for room-temperature infrared detectors and light sources | $847,492 | AMETHYST RESEARCH INC | STTR | Phase II | OSD21C-004 | 09/01/2023 | 08/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Office of the Secretary of Defense | High performance infrared photodetectors and light sources that span infrared wavelengths from 2 to 14 microns and beyond are critical to DoD. At the longer wavelengths these devices demand stringent cooling requirements, which add size, weight, power consumption and cost. In this program we are developing tunnel diodes based on epsilon near zero (ENZ) metal-insulator-metal (MIM) rectenna structures, which have the potential of disruptive performance. In Phase I we have demonstrated III-V based ultrabroad band hyperbolic metamaterials with ultra-low losses, suitable for ENZ MIM rectennas. In Phase II we will demonstrate ENZ MIM based high-speed ultrasensitive detectors that operate at room temperature, low-power ultra-bright narrow-band emitters that operate with single stage thermoelectric coolers, and ultrafast actively tunable phase arrays. Integration of these technologies will also be pursued to produce infrared technology prototypes. The realization of any of these devices will be game changing. The program brings together a proven consortium that includes Amethyst Research who specialize in new III-V device development, the University of Oklahoma’s infrared group, Naval Research Laboratory, the Army Research Laboratory and supply chain stakeholders to ensure integration into the E/O III-V commercial supply chain and technology adoption and system integration by relevant industrial primes. |
| FA8649-23-P-1015 | Hybrid Electric Power System for King Air Aircraft | $1,248,999 | AMPAIRE INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 08/30/2023 | 05/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Ampaire proposes to leverage our AMP Drive hybrid powertrain technology for dual use applications on the King Air 200 series of aircraft. The King Air aircraft are commonly used for both cargo and passenger operations with the Air Force. The AMP Drive mod |
| N68335-23-C-0228 | Defect-Tolerant High-Temperature Superconductor for Coil Applications | $600,000 | AMPEERS LLC | STTR | Phase II | N21A-T007 | 03/15/2023 | 03/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The remarkably superior current densities of RE-Ba-Cu-O (REBCO, RE = rare earth) superconductor tapes enable high power density and highly-efficient electric machines that address the needs of the Navy’s Advanced Power Systems. But, at such high current densities, the superconductor is susceptible to localized heating at defective spots which causes a thermal runaway, leading to a catastrophic failure. Uniform, long tapes with minimal defects are desirable to avoid these hot spots. The critical current (Ic) of long REBCO tapes is tested for uniformity only at 77 K in zero applied magnetic field. But there is strong evidence that even tapes that exhibit uniform Ic at 77 K, 0 T can have inconsistent Ic in a magnetic field at lower temperatures. Consequently, sections of a long tape that have lower Ic in a magnetic field at lower temperatures – that are not detected by Ic measurements at 77 K, 0 T – can be a location of quench and onset of failure. While long tapes with uniform Ic are highly desirable to avoid hot spots, methods to manage local defects in REBCO have to be investigated. Unlike metallic superconductors like Nb3Sn which consist of thousands of fine filaments, the wide geometry of REBCO tapes is not conducive for easy current sharing between tapes in a coil or cable. The objective of the proposed project is to develop defect tolerant REBCO tapes that promote current sharing between tapes to bypass current around local defects to reduce the possibility of quench and potential failure. In the Phase I effort of the proposed project, AMPeers worked with the University of Houston to design, develop, and test REBCO architectures that are defect tolerant and provide pathways to shunt current around defects. In addition, we worked to minimize defects in tapes using in-line quality control during fabrication. Further, we developed a reel-to-reel (R2R) Scanning Hall Probe Microscope (SHPM) measurement of Ic at 65 – 77 K in magnetic fields up to 5 T. Using the in-field R2R SHPM, we detected recessive defects that are not obvious in Ic measured at 77 K, 0 T, that can possibly be an origin for quench. In the Phase II project, we will evaluate all approaches for defect-tolerant REBCO tapes in terms of efficacy of current sharing, scalability to manufacturing, and impact on other properties relevant to applications; select the best choice and evaluate quench characteristics of meter-long tapes. We will then scaleup the best approach for defect-tolerant REBCO tape to 50 meters and deliver long lengths of defect-tolerant tape to Navy for independent evaluation. Additionally, we will design and construct a coil with long lengths of defect-tolerant REBCO tape and demonstrate its effectiveness in quench mitigation. |
| W912CG23C0001 | Efficient, low-cost, high-resolution imaging of hard x-rays using PbTe nanosemiconductor-based composites | $1,469,158 | [ AMPHIONIC LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-21 | 10/20/2022 | 11/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | This SBIR project will exploit the nanoscale physics delivered by percolating networks of PbTe nanoparticles to develop an efficient, low-cost imager of hard x-rays (5 – 300 keV) that has high spatial (< 55 mm) and energy resolutions (< 2 %). We developed methods to assemble PbTe into scalable solids using either templated growth or self-assembly. PbTe gels self-assembled from colloidal nanoparticles (NPs) translate the size-dependent properties of nanostructures to materials with macroscale volumes. Large spanning networks of NP chains provide high interconnectivity within the material necessary for a wide range of properties from conductivity to viscoelasticity. In our Phase I work, we have: (1) optimized the aqueous hydrothermal synthesis recipe for PbTe NPs, (2) completed the development of low-cost fabrication methods that have form-factor flexibility and can be scaled to large areas (30.48 x 30.48 cm2 during Phase I) and thicknesses, (3) designed and fabricated pixelated rectifying metallic contacts to form a p-i-n diode, and (4) realized high-energy resolution (0.5 % at 81 keV) sensors across the hard x-ray energy range up to 383 keV. In contrast to single-crystalline, polycrystalline, or amorphous materials, nanostructured media allow one to increase the exciton multiplicity upon the impingement of ionizing quanta by utilizing multi-exciton generation. The surface-induced reduction in the relative participation of thermal loss processes results from a more-effective de-coupling of the phonon population from the information-carrying charge-carriers within the solid. Furthermore, one can exploit the accumulated effect of interfacial scattering events at the multitudinous boundaries with the nanostructured solid to enhance the stopping power of the solid relative to a homogeneous or single-crystalline equivalent. This quantum dot physics can be exploited to potentially transform x-ray imaging. In contrast to existing x-ray imaging implementations that measure x-ray generated currents, the EPIC-HXR project will deliver an x-ray panel that is spectroscopic on a photon-by-photon basis, expanding the capabilities of x-ray imagers to enable more precise atom-specific mapping of the interrogated targets, which is relevant for military applications, non-destructive evaluation, and medical imaging instrumentation. During Phase II, the PbTe-polymeric composite material and associated readout electronics will be first optimized for single-pixel performance in terms of detection efficiency and energy resolution. That pixel design will then be expanded into an x-ray imaging array with expandable low-noise readout electronics. That x-ray array demonstration will be followed by the material and readout integration into a 30 x 30 cm2 x-ray spectroscopic imager. |
| 140D0423C0020 | Lightweight enhanced-attenuation shielding for high-energy gamma-rays based on nanostructured composite materials | $224,994 | [ AMPHIONIC LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | HR0011SB20224-09 | 03/15/2023 | 11/14/2023 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | If civilian and military equipment and personnel are to be effectively shielded in a high radiation environment- such as that found in space, or in a nuclear-powered naval vehicle, or in a nuclear-active battlefield environment- then protection against high-energy photons must be enhanced well beyond that currently delivered by existing materials. Materials that are highly effective in stopping the nuclear by-products before they encounter sensitive electronics or the war-fighter can mitigate the need to develop radiation-hard components or biological countermeasures following radiation exposure. Unfortunately, the current shielding modality, in which one adds more material-depth in order to increase the attenuation of any damaging quanta, is unattractive for deployed missions because of the weight and size of high-Z materials for photon shielding becomes operationally cumbersome. One must therefore modify the underlying material in order to elicit transformational improvements in current shielding materials. If one can make a material with multitudinous interfaces, such as provided by a combination of high-Z (e.g. Pb) nanoparticles potentially bonded to low-Z polymeric components, then the small interfacial loss per interaction can accumulate to dominate the attenuation characteristics. Our nanostructured gamma-ray shielding material has: (1) a transformative mechanism- distributed multitudinous interfacial scattering at nanoparticle surfaces- to enhance stopping power and neutral particle attenuation, (2) 1/10th to ½ the mass density of the equivalent bulk material, (3) a very high temperature resilience (up to 752 0F), (4) a low-cost solution-based synthesis, (5) a high thermal (and electrical) conductivity, (6) a flexibility and high-damping of mechanical vibration, and (7) a readily scalable production method. During Phase I, our goal is to demonstrate the feasibility of forming large-volume, nanostructured composite shielding with a gamma-ray linear attenuation coefficient at least twice that of the equivalent bulk material. Although solid nanoparticles, composed of lead for instance, can achieve this goal, our wave-mechanics modeling predicts that core-shell nanoparticles are substantially superior in exploiting gamma-ray redirection effects within a heavily loaded solid. We will therefore form PbO/Pb, CdS/PbS, and Pb hollow-core nanoparticles and form those into solids through either bottom-up self-assembly methods or through top-down milled-and-pressed methods. The advantage of the latter is that the organic constituents, which govern the self-assembly for bottom-up approached, are avoided and one can therefore make a more component-pure nanostructured solid from which to prove the feasibility of enhanced stopping. The advantage of the solution-based nanostructured composite approach is that the process is simple, scalable, and low-cost and therefore ultimately preferred for commercialization of the material. |
| HDTRA223P0006 | Efficient, low-cost, high-performance radiation imaging using crystalline perovskite active materials | $167,492 | [ AMPHIONIC LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | DTRA222-004 | 04/14/2023 | 11/13/2023 | Department of Defense | Defense Threat Reduction Agency | In this SBIR project, we will develop an efficient, low-cost, rad-hard imager of ionizing radiation (focusing primarily on gamma-rays during Phase I but also expanding to fast neutrons during Phase II) that has high angular (< 2°) and energy resolution (< 2% at 662 keV) that can be handheld (< 4 kg system mass) and has a low operating bias (< 200 V) for its sensing pixel elements. Current radiation imagers are limited by their poor energy resolution and / or high system costs, especially for dual-mode (photon and fast neutron) imaging. Perovskite materials can solve these problems due to its low-cost material growth (using solution-based techniques) and its superior cross-section and semiconductor properties, enabling high-performance radiation detection (including of fast neutrons) at 1 – 2 orders of magnitude lower material costs than existing semiconductor or scintillator materials. While perovskite detectors have been demonstrated, the scalable growth techniques and device engineering of perovskite sensors necessary to realize commercial detection and imaging systems needs further development. In particular, the material yield, consistency, and device fabrication strategies need significant improvement. To demonstrate the feasibility of transitioning perovskite materials into commercializable imaging systems, we have developed several strategies that will be optimized during this Phase I work. The first step of our efforts will be to optimize the perovskite material chemistry to enable the high-resolution detection of gamma-rays (< 2% at 662 keV and <5% at 2 MeV) while demonstrating the feasibility of using the same material for dual-mode (gamma-rays and fast neutrons) detection. After optimizing the perovskite material chemistry to enhance the stability and detection performance, we will investigate and optimize scalable material growth methods to enable the production of high-volume (> 5 cm3) perovskite solids. Note that we have previously developed two such scalable growth methods: Field-Assisted Sintering Technology (FAST) and Axially-Forced Convection (AFC) growth techniques to grow large perovskite solids. During this project, these two methods will be optimized and compared for their ability to grow high-quality perovskites. While optimizing the growth techniques, we will also evaluate the sensors’ radiation survivability and develop the device architecture and deposition strategies needed to form stable, rectifying p-i-n contacts to perovskites, building on our previous work on low-temperature cast rectifying contacts. The problems caused by high detector capacitance (up to 100 nF cm-2 for perovskite detectors) on commercial readout circuitry will be addressed by designing a customized capacitance-insensitive preamplifier by optimizing a previous design we developed. When combined, the successful demonstration of our Phase I work will prove the feasibility of low-cost, high-energy, high-performance perovskite imagers. |
| FA8649-23-P-0385 | Reduction of Soft Tissue Injuries and Down Days with Female-Specific Collagen Intervention | $74,885 | AMPHP INC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/21/2022 | 02/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Momentous seeks to deliver a joint health intervention designed specifically for female military servicemembers. It maximizes the benefit of collagen and vitamin C for injury reduction with novel additionals to limit increased injury risk due to the physiological impacsex-specificcific hormones. This effort will adapt the composition of Momentous Collagen Shot, a leading collagen product, to meet the military-specific use case of female-specific joint health. The design adds ingredients to counteract joint laxity seen during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Momentous’ solution promotes collagen synthesis, deposition, and matrix building alongside tendon and ligament strength and bone density improvement. Across the US military, lower extremity overuse injuries are the leading cause of being medically not ready for duty, as well as lost and limited duty days. MSKI is the leading source of down days causing 25 million limited duty days DoD-wide annually resulting in 2.4 million doctor visits and accounting for $548 million in direct patient care cost (Teyhen et al., 2018). The military is constantly looking to develop new and innovative ways to improve the human performance and well-being of its servicemembers. Unfortunately, many of these solutions are not one-size-fits-all, especially regarding women. Women participating in the same sports as men suffer 2-8 times more catastrophic musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI) than men (Larruskain et al. 2018; Waldén et al. 2011). A female servicemember is 2X more likely to suffer an MSKI than her male counterpart (Grimm et al., 2019). Of the 62,489 active USAF Security Forces duty personnel from 2009 to 2018, 40,771 (65.2%) were diagnosed with at least one musculoskeletal injury, where women had a 31% higher injury rate than men (Sundstrom et al., 2021). According to Rhon, Greenly, et al. (2021), females in the military have up to 3 times greater risk of sustaining lower extremity musculoskeletal injuries than their male counterparts and while women make up only 15% of the military population, they are 40% of military patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. Most injury reduction interventions seek to make a person stronger, change their posture or gait, or increase their range of motion. However, female servicemembers face two unique unmet challenges: (1) a lack of consideration for increased joint laxity, and subsequent increase in injury risk, as seen during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, and (2) a complete absence of female-specific interventions. The team of collaborators joining Momentous includes among others: the world’s #1 collagen researcher, Keith Baar (Ph.D., Professor of Molecular Exercise Physiology, UC Davis). The RDT&E includes phases for product design, clinical research, manufacturing, and acceptance testing. A clinical research study will be performed among female athletes at UC Davis under Dr. Keith Baar to demonstrate solution superiority. |
| FA8649-23-P-0543 | A Dynamic AI-based Inspection System for Warfighter Surfaces Defect Detection using Deep Learning Aided Multi-Spectral Imaging | $1,250,000 | ANALATOM INCORPORATED | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 11/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Advanced nondestructive inspections (NDI) are a critical component of smart manufacturing systems for DAF operations. The capability to inspect and improve the quality of warfighter components without negatively impacting manufacturing processes and costs |
| FA8649-23-P-0361 | Machine Learning-aided Multiscale Modeling of Fatigue Damage in Composite Structures | $74,979 | [www.analyswift.com ANALYSWIFT, LLC] | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | AFRL recently completed a project on determining the technical feasibility of new damage tolerance design approaches for composite aircraft structures. However, the average error for blind static strength predictions was 20%, while that for blind fatigue strength predictions was 40%. To realize Air Force’s vision of service life prediction, we need to predict the remaining fatigue life of composite structures with fatigue test data. Cyclically loaded composite structures may fail by matrix fatigue and fatigue delamination. Existing models, however, cannot satisfactorily solve this complex problem: Existing empirical models neglect the microstructural details of composites and significantly sacrifice accuracy for efficiency. Existing multiscale models cannot characterize all failure mechanisms of composites and are mostly for 3D solids, rarely for common structural forms in terms of beams and plates/shells. To meet the critical need for an efficient high-fidelity fatigue model for composite structures, we propose to develop a machine learning-aided multiscale model for fatigue damage in composite structures based on our previous research on fatigue damage model and cohesive zone model (CZM) to handle matrix fatigue and fatigue delamination, respectively. mechanics of structure genome (MSG) to model 3D structures, beams, and plates/shells in a unified manner. Dakota (a general-purpose optimizer) along with a conditional recurrent neural network (RNN) model to accelerate model calibration. We propose the following Phase I objectives: Develop an implicit integration scheme for our CZM for improved accuracy. Develop a conditional RNN model as an efficient high-fidelity substitute for finite element analysis. Develop a Dakota-based calibration tool and calibrate modes I and II delamination parameters. We also propose the following Phase II objectives: Design and conduct fatigue tests on a composite structure and its matrix and interface for blind prediction and calibration, respectively. Develop an implicit integration scheme for our fatigue damage model. Modify Phase I’s RNN model and calibration tool to accommodate matrix fatigue. Develop a self-learning algorithm retraining the RNN with new data during model calibration. Develop an MSG-based multiscale model for fatigue damage in composite structures. Validate the multiscale model by reproducing the structural-level test data and fine-tune the calibrated parameters if necessary. At the completion of this project, we expect to have developed the proposed multiscale fatigue model. The resulting computational tool will achieve unprecedented predictive capabilities in the remaining service life of composite structures. This project will benefit Air Force and related agencies/industries by reducing experiments and iterative adjustments, shortening the design and analysis period, and ultimately cutting down the cost associated with developing and maintaining composite structures. |
| FA8649-23-P-0895 | Room-temperature Single Photon Detector | $74,844 | ANAMETRIC, INC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/08/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Today, single photon detectors essentially don’t work well at room-temperature. This limitation is blocking many quantum photonic applications, particularly in the fields of quantum communications, security and sensing. This gap is particularly significan |
| FA8649-23-P-0447 | Quantum Secure Identification | $1,249,320 | ANAMETRIC, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 11/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The concept of identity is fundamental to cybersecurity. How do you know that a plane is friend or foe? Or that a remote device can be updated with new software, while keeping out updates from adversaries? How do you know a security badge is authentic? These functions and more are often enabled by a semiconductor circuit known as a PUF (Physical Unclonable Function) which is a digital fingerprint for chips. This project intends to develop a new generation of chip-level secure ID capabilities with a new PUF technology. A PUF is a hardware structure with one or more unique manufacturing characteristics which can act as an immutable cryptographic root-of-trust (also known as a secure ID). Consequently, PUFs are an ideal foundation and are used in many secure applications, including supply-chain assurance/anti-counterfeiting, secure firmware updates, and trusted/secure communications - even ID badges. This project extends our previous work to build a novel hybrid quantum/classical photonics PUF. We will compare our theoretical model that was developed in Phase I against the operation of our first quantum hybrid PUF (QPUF) prototype chip. The company independently fabricated and characterized this first QPUF chip after Phase I ended. We will use the data from this analysis to drive further enhancements to this foundational technology. Recent applications of machine learning (ML) techniques have exposed flaws in current PUF designs, potentially compromising critical government and defense operational security – which can also jeopardize warfighter safety. We will conduct a cryptanalytic investigation of these types of ML-assisted threats against our QPUF to confirm its ability to withstand attacks of this nature. |
| FA8649-23-P-0421 | Automated data collection system for tracking personnel at USAF/ USSF | $74,979 | ANC GROUP LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Tried multiple times to update this section and have not been able to (website deletes info after saving it). Please see slide 2 in the technical approach deck of slides attached for technical abstract. |
| N68335-23-C-0318 | DeepConsensus: Deep learning-based distributed consensus approach for heterogeneous spectrum sensors | $139,996 | ANDRO COMPUTATIONAL SOLUTIONS LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T017 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | ANDRO proposes DeepConsensus – a distributed spectrum sensing and consensus-building technology designed for operating in the presence of heterogeneous sensors in dynamic RF environments – to address the Navy’s requirement for comprehensive spectrum awareness to facilitate efficient dynamic spectrum allocation (DSA). The proposed DeepConsensus technology is a flexible and hierarchical architecture designed to accommodate sensors with different capabilities to provide operators and the decision engine a consolidated view of spectrum usage to enhance DSA. DeepConsensus adopts the cutting-edge AI/ML approaches to perform decentralized spectrum sensing and information exchange to generate unified network-wide channel map. This effort is intended to fulfill the DoD’s strategic spectrum planning roadmap. The AI-based solution will be designed to be platform agnostic with defined interfaces to facilitate accelerated adoption and transitioning to DoD platforms. |
| W51701-23-C-0156 | DeepGenerator: Operator-Focused Deep Generative Engine for Tactical Data Generation | $150,000 | ANDRO COMPUTATIONAL SOLUTIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-007 | 08/09/2023 | 11/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W51701-23-C-0057 | DeepForecaster: AI Engine for comprehensive RF SIGINT, assured PNT, and Forecasting | $1,699,999 | ANDRO COMPUTATIONAL SOLUTIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A214-013 | 04/03/2023 | 10/02/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W56KGU-23-C-0002 | Navigation Grade CMOSS Compliant Dead Reckoning Inertial Navigation System (INS) | $111,304 | ANELLO PHOTONICS INC | SBIR | Phase I | A22-009 | 02/02/2023 | 08/01/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Anello Photonics will use the proprietary Silicon Photonics Optical Gyroscope (SiPhOG) to develop a Navigation Grade Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) compliant to the C5ISR/Electronic Warfare (EW) Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) with pntOS API, PNT RA and VICTORY data bus compliant interfaces. The complementary navigation solution provides a low error for distance travelled without the need for external RF signals such as GPS, allowing for navigation in contested environments. |
| FA8650-23-C-5035 | B-52 Digital Blueprint | $1,499,997 | ANAUTICS, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF221-D019 | 11/10/2022 | 02/12/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | B-52 Digital Blueprint is a fusion of data, people, process, and technology that we believe will result in a data-centric organization. A clear and defined data operation and governance strategy will deliver trusted data sources that advanced analytics and decision making requires, while developing and scaling the talent within the organization. The technology “backbone” utilizes digital services, smart platforms, processes, and automation capabilities that enable agile insights that organizations need and the interactive experience that today’s users expect. Assessing and modeling the utilization of applications workloads to determine which applications make financial sense to build/migrate, shrink or eliminate will help establish the technology technical baseline. This approach focuses on enabling collaboration across the organization to drive agility and speed – implementing practices that solve challenges associated with inefficiencies in accessing, preparing, integrating, and making data available – allowing organizations to digitally QuickStart initiatives at scale. |
| FA8649-23-P-0841 | Universal Translator: Automating Translation of Adversary Threat Languages to Enhance Counterintelligence Analysis | $74,983 | ANONYMOUS A.I INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/28/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Russia is invading Ukraine and is on NATO’s doorstep. China threatens Taiwan. The Air Force / DoD requires critical language skills to gather and analyze intelligence on ever more aggressive and expansionist adversaries. The DoD currently has 28% of its |
| FA8649-23-P-0218 | DeepID: Detection Platform to Stop Adversary DeepFake Attacks | $74,983 | ANONYMOUS A.I INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Technical Abstract: Russia is actively using synthetic media - “Deepfakes” - as an information warfare tool to support its invasion of Ukraine. A DeepFake is an AI generated or manipulated video, audio, or news-article that appears 100% realistic to the human eye and can fool existing biometric detection methods. The DAF/DoD lacks linguists in target threat languages to accurately analyze and detect deepfakes at scale. This allows Russian information warfare to go unstopped and gives Moscow an advantage in the war. DeepMedia proposed to modify, adapt, and enhance its deepfake detection platform, DeepIdentify, to enable the Air Force to identify adversary information war efforts through publicly available information sources faster, more accurately, and at scale. DeepIdentify is a deepfake detection platform that detects manipulated video, audio, and text produced by adversaries. DeepMedia will conduct a R/R&D feasibility study to adapt the platform to Air Force / DoD uses so the Air Force can identify, detect, and attribute manufactured deepfake content in order to counter enemy information warfare. |
| FA8649-23-P-0217 | DeepMedia: Universal Translator Platform to Accelerate and Enhance Language Translation Among Allies | $74,983 | ANONYMOUS A.I INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Russia is invading Ukraine and is on NATO’s doorstep. China threatens Taiwan. The Air Force requires clear language communication in order to train, advise, and assist its allies to counter these threats. The Air Force faces shortages in linguists, interpreters, and translators in strategic languages like Ukrainian. This limits effective communication and collaboration with allies. To address this challenge, DeepMedia will conduct an R/R&D feasibility study to modify and adapt its Universal Translator ™ offering to enable near-real time language translation from one language to another to strengthen Air Force / DoD alliances against adversaries. DeepMedia’s Universal Translator platform uses synthetic media to create “deepfakes” of an individual speaking in another language without dubbing, subtitles, or human translators. This enables faster, more accurate, and scalable near real-time translation of Air Force personnel into other languages. This will facilitate easier communication in large-scale training exercises, humanitarian assistance / disaster relief, and real world military operations, without requiring individual translators or being hamstrung by critical skills shortages. |
| FA8649-23-P-0960 | Practical Post-Quantum Key Exchange | $74,565 | ANAMETRIC, INC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The world is on the cusp of a seismic shift in the cybersecurity field. There are two forcing functions; one nearer-term and one longer-term, that will necessitate a massive transformation in the practice of sharing secrets across all networks worldwide. |
| W51701-23-C-0205 | Intrinsically Ruggedized Lithium-Ion Batteries for Expeditious DoD Electrification | $1,799,446 | ANTHRO ENERGY INC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-016 | 09/14/2023 | 03/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0619 | HyPHI: High-bandwidth, multi-band, multi-constellation SATCOM solution for hypersonics | $74,041 | ANYSIGNAL INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/01/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Hypersonics are vital to DoD modernization and battlefield dominance. Existing solutions, however, are bandwidth constrained, line-of-sight limited, and have single-points of failure. AnySignal is developing HyPHi, a high-bandwidth, multi-constellation, m |
| FA8649-23-P-0528 | DeepMedia: Rapid and Accurate DeepFake Detection to Counter Russian and Chinese Information Warfare | $1,249,382 | ANONYMOUS A.I INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 11/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | A DeepFake is an AI generated or manipulated video, audio, or news-article that appears 100% realistic to the human eye and can fool existing biometric detection methods. Russia and China will use this technology in a future peer-to-peer conflict with the US. The Air Force currently lacks the manpower and critical language skills to identify DeepFake content at scale. The most effective way to identify a DeepFake is through audio, voice, and language queues. Native language speakers are the most effective way to identify DeepFakes. The Air Force suffers a shortage of skilled linguists in strategic threat languages - specifically Russian and Ukrainian. They can take 44 weeks for basic proficiency and 5-6 years for mastery. There are millions of sound bits and videos circulating across Publicly Available Information (PAI) sources and social media (Tik Tok, Instagram, Facebook). All of these contain synthetically manipulated DeepFake content and the number is growing exponentially. The Air Force simply does not have the numbers of native speakers or cryptologists to keep up with the flood of DeepFake content in PAI. This risks adversary DeepFake content proliferating across PAI and spreading disinformation which can reduce the speed and accuracy of Air Force tactical and operational decision-making. This ultimately weakens the Air Force’s ability to gather intelligence, formulate decisions, and execute air combat power rapidly and effectively against adversaries. The Air Force therefore has a need for a capability that rapidly detects DeepFake content across large volumes of PAI at scale, without being constrained by cryptologist and linguist skill and personnel shortages. To address this need, 16th Air Force’s Air Force Cryptologic Office (AFCO) proposes to partner with Anonymous AI (d/b/a DeepMedia) on an SBIR Direct to Phase II (D2P2) to modify and adapt DeepID, DeepMedia’s commercial DeepFake detection and biometric analysis platform. DeepMedia will develop a customized deepfake detection platform so the AFCO can detect, attribute, and characterize DeepFake audio, video, and text footage. DeepMedia will perform non-recurring engineering (NRE) and research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) to develop a customized algorithm set and bespoke platform that enables AFCO analysts to assess open-source intelligence (OSINT), primarily through publicly available information (PAI) sources including social media, news, and press releases for DeepFake threats. Given AFCO’s mission set, the focus will primarily be on audio, voice, and language manipulation, as defined by the end-user. The end result will be the introduction of a custom, Air Force-specific DeepFake detection tool that empowers AFCO and broader information warfare and intelligence communities with a new capability to detect audio / language / voice media manipulation, attribute its source, and determine malicious intent faster and more efficiently. |
| N68335-23-C-0078 | QuAIS phase II | $1,199,992 | AOSENSE, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N211-067 | 11/07/2022 | 11/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | AOSense proposes to develop an IMU based on atom-interferometric quantum sensors for inertial navigation of U.S Navy platforms in the absence of GPS that will achieve strategic-grade performance in a field demonstration on a marine platform. This effort will leverage AOSense’s broad expertise and history of innovation in atom interferometry to significantly advance the state of the art for deployed quantum inertial sensors. |
| FA8649-23-P-0640 | Forward-Deployed Ocean Mesh Networking | $74,119 | APEIRON LABS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/02/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | There are many scenarios where it would be extremely useful to have mesh networking capability that can be deployed in advance be largely undetectable appear when needed disappear after use Apeiron Labs attritable or reusable ocean profilers can host both |
| FA8649-23-P-0548 | Ultra-Low Cost Metalens for EO/IR and Early Threat Warning Systems | $1,249,883 | [ APEX MICRODEVICES LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/09/2023 | 11/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Optical elements play a crucial role in many modern EO/IR sensor systems, early threat warning systems and for consumer applications such as cellphones and augmented reality hardware. The miniaturization trend poses a challenge to optics since conventiona |
| FA8650-23-C-5014 | Ultra-Fast Solid State Spatial Light Modulator | $1,249,974 | [ APEX MICRODEVICES LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D030 | 06/09/2023 | 08/06/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Existing EO/IR systems are often too large and expensive for widespread use across small and attritable platforms, limiting the proliferation of these platforms and their full potential. Spatial Light Modulator technologies form a critical component in be |
| FA8649-23-P-0552 | Antaris TrueTwin - Digital Engineering for Satellite Servicing & Manufacturing | $1,699,871 | ANTARIS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 02/19/2023 | 05/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Antaris plans to modify and adapt its TrueTwin digital engineering software application to ingest and support In-Space Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing (ISAM) payloads, components, and mission sets through the execution of this SBIR Direct-to-Phase-I |
| FA2401-23-9-0045 | Rapidly-Produced, Configurable Satellite Bus Platform for Tactically Responsive Space Missions | $1,249,953 | APEX TECHNOLOGY, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/11/2023 | 03/11/2025 | Department of Defense | Honorable Frank Calvelli, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Space Acquisition & Integration, he wrote, “Today, our space systems are increasingly under threat. Strategic competitors want to deny our advantage in space during a potential conflict. Our current space architecture was designed when space was a benign environment. Previously, building large satellites with long development cycles, on cost-plus contracts made sense, but that time has passed. To meet the pacing threat, we are transforming from the few ‘big juicy targets’ of the past to a more proliferated and resilient architecture that can be counted on during times of crisis and conflict.” Secretary Calvelli derived a formula for going fast in space acquisition in order to counter the growing threat from near-peer adversaries: Build smaller systems + 2) Use existing technology, designs to minimize non-recurring engineering + 3) Dive contract scope to 3 years or less from start to launch + 4) Use fixed price contracts = Mission Capabilities Faster to our Warfighters In order to achieve faster delivery of space capabilities, it is necessary to adopt the use of smaller satellites that can be manufactured rapidly and at scale. Large satellites take a significant amount of time to develop and test due to their complex and bulky structures, tanks, payloads, and components. Even with minimal non-recurring engineering or design changes, the process of creating large satellites can be time-consuming. Furthermore, building large satellites may not always be necessary as few missions actually require them. Disaggregating larger systems into smaller, more proliferated systems across all orbits can be a more efficient approach. By building smaller satellites with the right design approach, we can accelerate the speed with which new capabilities are delivered to orbit. Secretary Calvelli further stated in his memo that in order to address current and potential threats, it is imperative that the USSF take advantage of government research and development, internal research and development within industry, and commercial investments to create new technologies that can be integrated into USSF acquisition programs. One way to achieve this is to leverage existing commercial satellite bus production lines. Adopting this approach, along with shorter development timelines, enables the USSF to deploy and refresh new space systems at a faster pace than our adversaries. | |
| FA8649-23-P-0449 | Radiation Hardened Integrated Circuit Fabrication Process Design Kit for Advanced Cryogenic Imagers | $1,249,926 | APOGEE SEMICONDUCTOR, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 11/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed project targets the development of radiation-hardened integrated-circuit (IC) Process Design Kits (PDK) needed for the implementation of imagers and other electronic systems operating in space or other harsh environments where radiation harmf |
| FA2401-23-9-0046 | High-Performance Digital IF Modem for SATCOM | $1,249,826 | APOTHYM TECHNOLOGIES GROUP, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/22/2023 | 03/26/2025 | Department of Defense | To meet the demands of the rapidly evolving space layer and sustaining resilient SATCOM capabilities for the warfighter, USSF SSC should leverage Digital IF SATCOM modem architectures, including digital IF modems. By adopting a Digital IF architecture, SSC can achieve freedom from vendor lock-in, reduce the total cost of ownership, increase ground segment sustainability, and improve terminal/modem agility and system resiliency. Apothym Technologies Group, LLC (ATG) proposes to develop high-performance digital IF demodulator capability and demonstrate digital IF interoperability with a 3rd party IF converter. ATG's innovative solution will empower the SSC and the Space Force to meet their missions more effectively by enabling rapid waveform deployments, simplified hardware migration, and path-agnostic connectivity as the space segment evolves into digital IF architectures. ATG's digital IF demodulator is built upon a cutting-edge FPGA-based platform, offering significant power savings and computational efficiency compared to software-based solutions. This optimized design enables seamless integration into commercial and military SATCOM networks, addressing the growing demand for virtualized ground segments and greenfield installations. Through this proposal, ATG aims to enhance the demodulator's capabilities by supporting multiple digital IF DVB-S2X channels and increasing its symbol rate. The proposed solution's technical risks, such as interoperability with third-party IFC devices, will be mitigated through an active collaboration with this project’ through the demonstration of interoperability within this project’s scope. The non-defense market opportunity for ATG's digital IF modem is substantial, with estimated revenues of up to $100M by 2029. Potential commercial customers, such as Intelsat, SES, Mangata, Astranis, AWS, and Microsoft, have already expressed interest in deploying digital IF within their networks. ATG's solution differentiates itself from competitors by offering lower power consumption and increased cost-efficiency, making it an attractive option for both military and commercial applications. Upon successful completion of the proposed R/R&D and T&E efforts, ATG's digital IF demodulator will be ready for integration into the defense ecosystem, providing valuable benefits to DAF end-users. These benefits include improved communication efficiency, reduced latency, and enhanced security, all of which are critical to ensuring mission success in an increasingly complex and contested space environment. | |
| FA9453-23-P-A047 | Network Function Virtualization in Satellite Terminals | $148,363 | APOTHYM TECHNOLOGIES GROUP, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SF224-0012 | 03/21/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As the US Space Force (USSF) has acquired new authorities for acquisition and responsibility of space systems, General Raymond's 2020 "Fighting SATCOM" vision lobbied for a Satellite Communications (SATCOM) enterprise that is more flexible, agile, resilie |
| FA8649-23-P-1030 | Sensor Data Generation Toolkit | $1,097,400 | APPLIED INTUITION GOVERNMENT INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/28/2023 | 03/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Department of the Air Force (DAF) requires production-scale digital engineering software tools that enable the generation of synthetic data sets to training computer vision models in distributed interactive simulation environments, in order to provide |
| N68335-23-C-0396 | Low-Cost, Low-SWaP, and High-Performance Uncooled Infrared Phototransistor Compatible with CMOS Readout Integrated Circuit | $139,984 | [ APPLIED NANOFEMTO TECHNOLOGIES LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | N231-027 | 05/23/2023 | 11/27/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | High-performance MWIR/LWIR imaging has various applications in defense and civilian sectors, including target detection and discrimination, remote sensing, chemical and biological sensing and imaging, atmospheric and environmental monitoring, IR spectroscopy, material analysis, etc. Existing technologies are bulky, heavy, and require cryogenic cooling systems, leading to significant increases in size, weight, and power (SWaP). Additionally, the photocurrent from MWIR/LWIR focal plane arrays (FPAs) must be read using CMOS ROICs, which are integrated with the FPAs through a heterogeneous chip-level flip-chip bonding and hybridization process, which significantly adds complexity and cost. This SBIR project aims to develop a high-performance uncooled MWIR/LWIR phototransistor and imaging system with low cost and significantly reduced SWaP capable of wafer-scale integration with CMOS ROICs. In phase I, we will design a 2x2 uncooled MWIR/LWIR phototransistor array with the integrated readout FETs. In the Phase I option, we will fabricate a 2x2 uncooled MWIR/LWIR FPA and test it for a proof-of-concept demonstration. In Phase II, a prototype of the compact, high-performance, uncooled MWIR imaging system with wafer-scale integrated ROIC will be developed and characterized. |
| W911QX-23-C-0036 | ANDFET – A new class of Si power MOSFETs with near zero reverse recovery | $1,315,219 | [ APPLIED NOVEL DEVICES, INC.] | STTR | Phase II | A15-023 | 09/29/2023 | 09/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Applied Novel Devices (AND) is commercializing an innovative power MOSFET technology platform (called ANDFET) that brings in several unique GaN-like performance benefits to Si power devices at a fraction of the cost. As part of this sequential proposal, we propose to increase the technical maturity level and manufacturing readiness level from TRL/MRL level 6 to level 8. During this project, AND will deliver Si wafer/die, packaged parts, design kits and new technology to Army and DoD as well as commercial customers to bring this technology to market. The unique combined features of ultra-low ON resistance (Rdson) and low output capacitance and near zero reverse recovery offered by this technology invented by AND can provide significant system level benefits in faster switching, lower loss, high efficiency and lower cost in a vast range of applications such as DC-DC conversion, electronic-fuses, battery management and next generation RF wireless communication systems. In addition, this technology has been qualified at a US DoD-trusted wafer foundry in Minnesota. Technology qualification and volume production in US based foundries is critical to DoD and the nation in enhancing domestic semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. |
| N68335-23-C-0042 | Acoustic Tomography Using Tactical Sensors | $799,958 | APPLIED OCEAN SCIENCES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N212-116 | 12/07/2022 | 12/23/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The US Navy has the national responsibility of maintaining freedom of navigation of the seas and securing the world from nuclear attack. Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) is an important part of these responsibilities. The Multi-Static Active Coherent (MAC) system developed by the Naval Air Warfare Center (NAWC) and deployed from the Boeing Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) provides a wide area ASW search capability. These systems enable the Navy to project ASW capabilities rapidly at any location on the globe, detecting and tracking threat submarines over tactically relevant timescales. NAWC’s MAC system consists of air-dropped SSQ-125 sources and SSQ-101 (Air Deployed Active Receiver [ADAR]) receiver buoys spread over a wide area to be searched for adversary submarines. The patterns in which the sources and receivers are deployed, particularly the spacing between buoys, are adapted to the presumed ocean conditions. The Navy’s oceanographic assets maintain global ocean circulation models, such as NCOM or HYCOM. These models are based on partial differential equations that capture the known physics of the ocean and are continually adjusted for observations reported from around the globe. Forward deployed US Navy forces and systems, such as the MAC system, receive ocean forecasts from NCOM/HYCOM for the time and location where systems will be deployed. These forecasts provide 3D ocean sound speed and current fields to be used as inputs to acoustic wave propagation models that calculate transmission loss (TL) and travel times. These are key inputs to tactical decision aids and target localization and tracking. The ocean is complex and temporally evolving, and sound speed forecasts degrade with time, thereby impacting processes that depend upon them. Sound speed directly impacts localization of submarines because it is needed to convert target echo travel times to ranges and target locations. Any degradation to the accuracy of the sound speed along the path of travel of the target echo will translate into degradation in target location and tracking. Ocean acoustic tomography (OAT), a technique of imaging the ocean sound speed field, similar to a Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT Scan), provides the opportunity to improve NAWCs real-time understanding of the sound speed field. The ability to transmit coherent signals and measure travel times on all receivers enables tomography to be used to track the 4D ocean sound speed field, inverting the measured travel times of the rays making up the direct blast signals received on each buoy. Standing up a tomography system using the sources and receivers organic to the MAC system by integrating state-of-the-art data assimilation methods with the Navy’s ocean forecasts will enable the MAC system to produce better target location and tracking estimates as well as optimize detection performance. |
| FA8651-23-P-A001 | Hyperspectral, Wide Field of View of Spatially Variant Photonic Crystals | $150,000 | APPLIED OPTIMIZATION, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0001 | 12/15/2022 | 09/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed work will demonstrate multifunctional Spatially Variant Photonic Crystals (SVPCs) operating with a wide Field of View (FOV) (~150°-170°) and broad spectral band in the near-infrared (NIR) and mid-infrared (MIR) spectrum. These SVPCs will use careful spatial variation by arranging and orienting unit cells and their resultant Iso-Frequency Contours (IFCs) to achieve and maintain self-collimation to correct wide FOVs; this will lead to unique control of light for lensing and imaging applications. SVPCs are designed to be adiabatic in nature, making them innately broadband in operation. Low-index, low-loss materials will be used to operate in the NIR and MIR spectrum; these materials enable high efficiency and a wide FOV with low Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C) requirements. The simplified geometric design and photopolymer material selection will also allow them to be fabricated using modern additive manufacturing techniques for practical applications and operational platforms. We will use numerical analysis to demonstrate the potential imaging properties and beam control enabled by these SVPCs. Broadband, wide-FOV imaging using SVPCs will serve as a supplementary or alternative approach for navigation and guidance to assist troops or civilians where standard techniques such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) may fail. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7536 | Surrogate Models to Accelerate High-Fidelity Physics Based Simulation | $155,000 | APPLIED OCEAN SCIENCES, LLC | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T003 | 11/23/2022 | 05/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Simulations are designed to reproduce the behavior of end-to-end systems or their critical components. When designed under a stochastic framework, they enable us to identify ensembles of possible system evolutions and their associated uncertainties and sensitivities of outputs relative to the inputs. When the intent is to reproduce sensor observations they need to account for the sensor and data processing limitations as well. It may not be feasible to emulate an end-to-end system using existing physics-based computational models when these processes are too complex or strongly nonlinear or if the physics-based models impose too great a computational burden. Further, it may be challenging to obtain enough data to train machine learning (ML) surrogate models to sufficient accuracy. To address these limitations, we propose to develop hybrid (deterministic and stochastic) models in which we reduce complexity and, at the same time, manage the error/uncertainty in our modeling. using error subspaces defined by deviations of the evolving dynamical system from modes of our stochastic surrogate models. Tracking this error subspace enables us to constrain it where the uncertainty may be growing. In addition, when emulating a system evolution for which data has been collected, such data can be assimilated efficiently into the dynamically orthogonal subspace to improve the skill of the underlying models. Such information sources are efficiently incorporated using principled Bayesian data assimilation in the subspace. Existing commercial EO-IR-Radar scene generation systems use high-level tools such as UNREAL or UNITY, developed to produce 4D gaming environments, to define interactive time-evolving scenarios in terms of frame-by-frame wire mesh descriptions, in which all surfaces are represented by facets. Facets are assigned materials with reflectivity properties. Objects are assigned temperatures so that IR signatures can be formed for them. Sensor observations are synthesized by ray tracing all light, IR, and Radar sources from source to sensor aperture. For scenarios as complicated as missile defense, where multiple missiles are incoming, with some being exploded or incinerated, and the debris and gaseous plumes serve to obstruct the observations of additional still-potent missiles, we anticipate that surrogate models will be needed to synthesize realistic physically accurate sensor observations in a real-time hardware-in-the-loop configuration. We anticipate that our proposed surrogate models will be integrated into and replace selected components of the rendering stage provided by such commercial scene generation systems. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| N68335-23-C-0121 | Integrated Computations Materials Engineering (ICME) Modeling Tool for Optimum Gas Flow in Metal Additive Manufacturing Processes | $1,099,999 | APPLIED OPTIMIZATION, INC. | STTR | Phase II | N21B-T022 | 05/03/2023 | 05/04/2026 | Department of Defense | Navy | The objective of proposed research is to demonstrate and validate a prototype of an Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) predictive modeling tool to fine-tune Gas Flow (G) and associated parameters for Metal Fusion (M) to attain high-quality AM Process-Structure-Performance (PSP). Validate Additive Manufacturing (AM) part quality using Directed Energy Deposition (DED) to repair gas turbine component and utilizing Laser Power Bed Fusion (LPBF) to produce a representative Navy part. The research effort is to: (i) Enhance the precision to model the interaction between non-isothermal gas flow and metal fusion, e.g., for interface heat transfer, powder ricochet, local boiling, ejection, and spatter; (ii) Validate the models for gas flow interaction with metal fusion parameters in DED and LPBF using in-situ, layer-by-layer sensing data and materials characterization. For DED, collect data using a powder flow monitor, laser profilometer, and high-speed video. For LPBF, collect data using a laser profilometer, MWIR camera, and high-speed video. (iii) Optimize PSP for complex repair using DED and produce a representative Navy part using LPBF; (iv) Develop a predictive capability to select a nozzle design for part-specific DED repair; and (v) Train a technology transition partner to use the ICME models. |
| M67854-23-C-6521 | Ultrawideband Small Form Factor Electronic Warfare System | $139,760 | APPLIED SIGNALS INTELLIGENCE, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-003 | 07/12/2023 | 05/10/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | This Phase I proposal delivers to Navy and Marine Corps System Command a design concept supported by electromagnetic modeling and simulation for an Ultrawideband, 2 MHz to 20+GHz signal intercept, Direction Finding (DF) and Electronic Attack (EA) system. It risk reduces the Phase I effort by starting with demonstrable 2 MHz to 10 GHz UWB DF technology. It risk reduces the Phase II effort by demonstrating a 20 GHz capability in Phase I. |
| W51701-23-C-0098 | Controlling Nitramine Recrystallization using In-situ Probe Data and Machine Learning | $100,000 | [ APPLIED SONICS INC] | SBIR | Phase I | A234-001 | 04/19/2023 | 10/20/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N64267-23-C-0031 | Innovative Manufacturing Process for High Temperature Ceramic Yarn from Advanced SiC Fibers | $139,886 | APPLIED TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-072 | 07/11/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | In response to Navy SBIR Topic N231-072, Applied Technology Solutions, Inc. (ATS) proposes to develop an innovative and beneficial process for producing high-temperature yarns from short silicon carbide (SiC) fibers. The yarn manufacturing process described within this proposal, in conjunction with a laser chemical vapor deposition (LCVD) process for manufacturing short, high-strength, high-temperature SiC fibers, will reduce supply chain risk and open up an additional source of SiC fiber that could be integrated into traditional compositing processes. Due to its discontinuous nature, this yarn will provide improved drapability and formability for complex geometries. Enhanced drapability will also lead to lower composite manufacturing costs due to reduced labor, reduced tooling requirements, and overall increased manufacturing efficiencies. |
| FA8649-23-P-0120 | Human Enabling Logistics Partner Robot (HELPR) | $74,997 | APPTRONIK INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/22/2022 | 02/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Technical Abstract Overview: Apptronik’s all-electric, next generation collaborative robots unite novel kinematics and powerful artificial intelligence into safe, lightweight, energy-efficient, mobile manipulation platforms that operate in unstructured and dynamic environments, outdoors, and off-road – bringing robust automation capabilities from the factory floor out into the field. The system can operate in a fully autonomous mode, a collaborative mode, and a simple or "degraded" mode. Technical Merit: Apptronik’s novel integrated robotic actuator hardware and control technology spun out from the Human Centered Robotics Laboratory (HCRL) at the University of Texas (UT) and as part of the NASA team in the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency (DARPA) robotics challenge (DRC). Apptronik holds 7 patents related to our unique kinematic approach. Apptronik’s concept revisits the parallelogram four-bar mechanism with an elastic element – essentially a spring lamp. The challenge was two-fold: scaling for large payloads and adapting to rapidly changing payloads, which is where the disruptive innovations come in. The spring element uses energy from the physics of springs instead of applied electrical or hydraulic energy, resulting in a much lighter manipulator than the typical COTS arm. The light weight makes for a safer system to operate near and with people, it also requires far less power, and can therefore be very mobile. This system can be mounted to any cargo vehicle and run off that vehicles existing electrical system. |
| 140D0423C0094 | (SPIDERSENSE) II - Situationally Pertinent Information Detection and Relevance Sensing Engine | $1,799,970 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-19 | 08/09/2023 | 02/08/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Complex military missions have failed in the past due to poor planning, wherein critical contextual elements of the mission environment, team, equipment, and/or contingencies were missed. Furthermore, important information is often lost in transition from planning to action stages in teamwork due to memory leaks and communication errors. The ultimate success of a mission relies on gathering and capturing critical contextual elements to build a shared situational awareness, a transactive memory system (TMS) to capture the gathered knowledge throughout the cycle of teamwork, and the ability to quickly re-instantiate a team when a loss or disruption has occurred. Although optimizing team transitions and formations are time-consuming and resource intensive, artificial social intelligence (ASI) agents can optimize the work by capturing, reasoning, and predicting over team and mission data to support complex transitions. To enable application of ASI to planning problems, SPIDERSENSE II will create interfaces that support collaborative team planning, generation of machine-readable plans, and flexible team formation approaches that incorporate ASI reasoning. These will be created as components connected to an existing human-agent team (HAT) testbed developed in the DARPA ASIST program, resulting in a testbed aligned to support research on critical operational problems. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7506 | DR WATSON: Document Recommender With Adaptively Tailored Sensing of Needs | $150,000 | APTIMA INC | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T002 | 11/23/2022 | 05/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Reusing prior work is an adaptive strategy that allows an organization to learn from missteps and extend its most promising insights and capabilities. Reuse grows as a challenge as the artifacts of effort accumulate. For example, stove-piped or hidden data streams make keeping abreast of internal reports and reviews difficult for engineers. The challenges are not merely in the variety and volume of discoverable artifacts but in their provenance, trustworthiness, and value. For example, the age, recency, frequency of use, and the individuals who touched an artifact are clues that often privilege the use of one artifact over another. They may also guide an interested user to a source of current knowledge about the artifact. Yet, such information is typically unavailable. To solve these challenges, we propose a digital assistant that will provide recommendations without adding cognitive load: Document Recommender With Adaptively Tailored Sensing of Needs (DR WATSON). Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| N68335-23-C-0467 | MITHRIL: Measures Integration Toolkit for Heat Risk Intervention Logic | $139,939 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-057 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Military training often occurs in high temperature environments, with Warfighters having to bear heavy loads over lengthy time periods, and while wearing extensive gear (e.g., full uniforms, body armor, helmets, rucksacks) that can impose significant heat strain. Although the Heat Illness Prevention System (HIPS) has been successful with early detection of and intervention for excessive heat strain in some training settings, HIPS has limited scalability and needs logistical advancements to support an enterprise-wide deployment. In response to this need, Aptima and its partners will develop the Measures Integration Toolkit for Heat Risk Intervention Logic (MITHRIL), a wearable heat strain assessment system running on a modern, scalable, and secure computing platform that can proactively alert individuals and their teammates to high-risk situations. MITHRIL will prevent heat strain and heat illness incidents more frequently than currently possible, thus facilitating early intervention to prevent life-threatening emergencies. In circumstances that cannot be prevented or that rapidly escalate to an emergency status, MITHRIL would help to immediately identify the situation and the location of the impacted individual, while also supplying a record of physiological data leading up to the incident. |
| 6SVL4-23-P-0002 | Analyzing Narrative Evolution Across Social Networks | $209,957 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase I | SOCOM234-001 | 04/28/2023 | 11/30/2023 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | The modern information environment (IE) is growing more complex and dynamic. Information technology advances enable adversaries to access and influence audiences globally with increasingly sophisticated tools and at an unprecedented scale. To understand the threat landscape and to respond effectively, there is a need to automatically detect, track, and differentiate the evolution of information narratives over time, and across modalities, languages, and platforms. Specifically, there is a need for developing quantitative models for tracking the evolution of information narratives and analyzing target audience engagement with narratives at scale across social platforms. To meet this need, Aptima, Inc. will perform a feasibility demonstration for IDEA, a novel AI-enabled visual analytics platform. IDEA will enable large-scale social media data collection using APIs and integration of publicly available data sources, and will enrich social media data using state-of-the-art natural language processing (NLP) pre-processing and entity disambiguation from in-house-developed NLP analytics. The data will be fed into three types of AI models for multilingual, multimodal proto-narrative detection, cross-platform narrative evolution, and target audience engagement analysis. Human-centric design and participatory research approaches will be used to integrate these analytics into a novel visual analytics platform to support operators and decision makers. |
| FA2384-23-P-0001 | PALADIN: Probabilistic Activity, multi-Level, and Abstractly Distributed Inference kNowledge graph | $149,858 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0022 | 03/16/2023 | 12/16/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Within the Air Force Joint Air Tasking Cycle, Air Combat Command, the information, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) community is responsible for collection planning. This critical work hinges on a comprehensive understanding of the red forces’ behav |
| FA8650-23-C-5036 | GOLDRUSH: Guided Operational Logging of Digital Records and Understanding of System History | $1,499,992 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF221-D019 | 12/19/2022 | 03/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | US military leadership is continually on the lookout for new tools, technologies, and procedures that can accelerate sustainment activities while reducing costs. Digital transformation is one major focus area that has been slowly integrated into sustainment operations, yet still requires much progress. In particular, efficient methods of digital conversion for legacy data records are needed along with digital tools for new record creation and maintenance. In response to this challenge, Aptima will develop GOLDRUSH: Guided Operational Logging of Digital Records and Understanding of System History. GOLDRUSH will be a rapid digitization system capable of converting large volumes of maintenance records from paper to digital, thereby allowing users to sort through and understand maintenance data more easily. In doing so, GOLDRUSH will provide a framework and end-user workflow for creating and sustaining future digital records, while also enabling these legacy and future records to be utilized efficiently alongside each other. The key innovation underpinning GOLDRUSH will be a novel system framework and well-organized data lake that will allow faster and easier entry of new maintenance data than is currently possible, while using automated techniques based on artificial intelligence technology to expedite ingestion and organization of legacy data. |
| W911QY-23-P-0006 | AEROPI: Advanced EXOJUMP to Reduce Occurrences of Parachute Injuries | $111,402 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase I | A22-015 | 01/12/2023 | 07/11/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Combat parachute jumping is a relatively poorly understood topic in the world of biomechanics. Extreme parachute landing forces, produced by carrying excessively heavy, voluminous loads as well as a reduced ability to predict and prepare properly for impact, lead to several serious injury mechanisms or, in rare cases, death. Injuries sustained during a mission will cost crucial time and resources, which could ultimately lead to increased levels of danger for the unit. To meet the Army’s need to dissipate high forces induced from parachute jumps and reduce injuries, Aptima and its teammates from Auburn University and Sophia Solutions propose to design the Advanced EXOJUMP to Reduce Occurrences of Parachute Injuries (AEROPI) system—a lower limb exoskeleton that will minimize forces experienced in the body by providing variable assistance before, during, and after the jump. Further, it will also collect relevant data from the user which will be crucial for future understanding of the biomechanics experienced during a jump, as well as provide insight into the root cause of future injuries. AEROPI will include four main components: (1) a sensor suite, (2) an analytics suite, (3) an ankle and/or knee augmentation exoskeleton, and (4) an intuitive user interface for reporting. |
| W51701-23-C-0114 | PRISM: Physiological Ruggedized Integrated Sensor-based Monitoring | $149,992 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-004 | 04/03/2023 | 07/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| 140D0423C0095 | ADAPT II.2 – Adaptive Distributed Allocation of Probabilistic Tasks | $1,799,967 | APTIMA INC | STTR | Phase II | A18B-T007 | 08/09/2023 | 08/08/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Artificial intelligence (AI) is swiftly integrating into the workforce and complementing the human as a teammate. AI imbued with social reasoning capacities, or artificial social intelligence (ASI), is posited as the next avenue of technological advancement. However, researchers have begun to note some of the pitfalls of careless or quick implementation of AI without proper consideration of the weaknesses of AI compared to a human, or the broader impacts on individual and team outcomes. That is, although AI systems may offer opportunities to make decision processes more efficient and precise, they may also remove crucial human elements from those processes. To meet the need for human-in-the-loop AI (HIT-AI) that allows humans and AI to complement each other in their reasoning and intervention efforts, Aptima is providing the ADAPT II.2 solution. ADAPT II.2 builds complementary dashboard components into the existing human-AI teaming (HAT) testbed to allow the human to review computational outcomes of social teaming constructs and ASI-generated interventions. Together, these facilitate after-action reviews (AARs) and the emergence of a potentially superior hybrid advisor. |
| FA2384-23-C-B011 | Laser Dazzle Effects (LDE) Toolkit | $1,249,980 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D002 | 09/26/2023 | 12/27/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Lasers can have disorienting and vision impairing effects when directed at the human eye—when directed at an aircraft, the effects can be mission- and even life-threatening. Immediate symptoms can include disorientation, blurred and double vision, headach |
| N68335-23-C-0353 | ARTIST: Adaptive and Robust Temporal Inference for Self-Supervised Tactics | $139,953 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-067 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) support decision making by leveraging intelligence, experience, and mission objectives to detect, mitigate, and respond to stimuli within varied defense environments (from hostilities to peace). They are well-planned actions. If they fail, information poverty during their creation is the likely culprit. As mission complexity increases due to the increased dimensionality of data collection and new, more capable actors, the additional information gathered does not make that information less impoverished or well-planned actions more resilient. TTPs must now adapt to dynamic conditions. Moreover, with mission complexity challenging operator workload, more incentive exists to offload operators of their real-time analysis, assessment, planning, and deployment tasks, to reduce errors and achieve mission objectives expeditiously. Aptima proposes to address these challenges with artificial intelligence capable of developing domain awareness and synthesizing TTPs aligned with mission objectives. Generally, we will do this probabilistically, leveraging acquired knowledge and current observation to identify opportunities to sense, assess, and act in the moment. Our solution will be trusted because we will ensure that algorithmic outputs are credible and explainable. It will be resilient because it will depend on an explore/exploit paradigm rather than a reference lookup. |
| FA2384-23-C-0011 | SRFACE: Systematic Reconciliation Framework Automated Classification Enrichment | $1,249,986 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D018 | 07/25/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | For decades, the US Air Force (USAF) has collected data from flight simulator training events. These data reside in various forms, including simulator-created databases, manually-created Excel worksheets, and products from observer-based data collection d |
| W911NF23P0027 | LEFT-T: Learning Enablers for Female Trauma Training | $199,999 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-009 | 07/31/2023 | 10/31/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | The average male Soldier is 5 inches taller and 40 pounds heavier than the average female. Males have greater muscle mass whereas females have greater amounts of subcutaneous fat. These differences can make it difficult for medics to palpate critical anatomical landmarks on females, particularly if they have only practiced on males. Moreover, differences in sex hormones significantly affect pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, thereby making it difficult to generalize drug dosages from males to females. Unfortunately, the Army’s one-size-fits-all approach to Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TC3) training largely ignores these anatomical and physiological differences. It is not surprising, therefore, that female Soldiers experience comparatively worse medical outcomes than males. Aptima and SIMETRI propose to design and develop Learning Enablers for Female Trauma Training (LEFT-T), which will supplement the work of other performers who are focusing on manikin development. LEFT-T will take a science of learning approach that (1) addresses both the affective/motivational and knowledge/skills challenges when treating wounded female Soldiers, thereby allowing learners to make the best use of the limited-availability, full mission simulation; and (2) streamlines the process of performance assessment, data integration, visualization, and documentation, thereby freeing instructors to spend more time teaching. |
| W911QX-23-P-0022 | COSMO: Human-Guided Machine Learning for Cognitive State Modeling | $111,488 | APTIMA INC | SBIR | Phase I | A22-005 | 01/05/2023 | 07/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | The proliferation of Army systems enabled with artificial intelligence (AI) has enhanced Warfighter capabilities at strategic, operational, and tactical levels. One limitation of these systems is that they lack awareness of the Warfighter’s cognitive state, which can lead to inappropriate interventions that negatively impact overall human-AI collaboration. Adaptive automation is one approach towards more context-sensitive interventions—however, some insight into the human’s state is still needed. Recent advances in sensor technologies and modeling techniques have created new opportunities in this area, yet more research is needed to mature these technologies and techniques so they can be used in operational settings. To meet this need, Aptima will develop COSMO: Human-Guided Machine Learning for Cognitive State Modeling. COSMO will be a diagnostic toolset for cost-effectively assessing human performance and predicting human cognitive states while integrating those insights into adaptive AI systems. Advanced, precise physiological sensors (e.g., fNIRS) will be used to create models in a lab environment which can then be used to develop and validate similar cognitive state models using less-intrusive sensors (e.g., smartwatch-based sensors). COSMO will accurately detect cognitive state changes in real-time and provide contextually relevant information that allows AI systems to adapt and intervene appropriately. |
| N68335-23-C-0494 | Sidekick Mobile -DSSWA | $139,963 | APTIMA INC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T027 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Navy has rapidly increased submarine capabilities in recent decades, with watchstanders now monitoring more systems and data sources than ever before. In addition to increasing the attentional and cognitive demands on watchstanders, this dynamic creates a balancing act between physical payload and the crew size necessary to handle the systems and meet mission requirements. Cognitive assistance is needed to support both routine tasks and the identification of critical events if crew sizes are to successfully support the increasing number of systems and data. To meet the Navy’s need for a Digital Sidekick for Submarine Watchstander Augmentation (DSSWA), Aptima will develop the Sidekick™ Mobile haptic alerting system. Building from ongoing work to integrate the system into submarine systems, Sidekick Mobile will utilize adaptive alerting methodologies to convey alert criticality, integrate existing data sources in an intelligent manner, provide pre-configured alert libraries to minimize setup time, and support the completion of routine tasks. Its highly modular architecture will facilitate integration with future information streams and additional hardware as needed. When fully implemented, this system will ensure that critical events are addressed promptly and free up cognitive bandwidth to accommodate new systems and data sources with current manning levels. |
| W911NF-23-C-0028 | Project Consolidate II | $849,929 | APTIMA INC | STTR | Phase II | OSD21C-006 | 06/01/2023 | 05/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Office of the Secretary of Defense | Global migration reached a staggering record of over 280 million migrants in 2020, a number that has almost quadrupled over the past 60 years. The share of the world’s population that are migrants has also markedly increased, now nearing 4% of the global population. As these numbers continue to rise, it is increasingly unsustainable for researchers in the population migration modeling (PMM) community to continue to operate in siloed efforts that lead to either inefficient rework or poor knowledge sharing. Project Consolidate will address these challenges by designing and building a collaboration-focused and AI-enabled recommender system that allows PMM researchers to discover, build, and share models more efficiently and effectively. It will build on top of a suite of mature technologies, such as Aptima’s Seek and AidData’s GeoQuery platforms, to combine automated structured and unstructured annotation of content relevant for PMM (e.g., publications, datasets, surveys), and provide project-oriented recommendations of resources to individual researchers and teams through an intuitive interface designed with PMM users in mind. The resulting Phase II prototype system will be implemented in a manner that increases the likelihood of transition to government and industry use through robust sustainability and accreditation considerations. |
| FA9453-23-P-A013 | Satellite Shielding Against Directed Energy Threats | $149,947 | AQWEST, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SF222-0023 | 12/15/2022 | 09/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Aqwest proposes to develop hardware solution that improves resiliency of satellites to directed energy threats. Our solution is a low-weight and cost-effective add-on, which is compatible with existing typical satellite systems, components, and modes of operation. In Phase I, we will define requirements for the technology to survive and operate within intended space, spacecraft, and DE threat environments. We will perform modeling to estimate effectiveness of the technology and conduct DE exposure testing on relevant scale to validate our approach. We will generate plans for execution of Phase II and for technology transition to end users. In Phase II, we will design, analyze, build, and ground test the technology, showing capability to survive and perform in the space, spacecraft, and DE threat environment. If necessary, space qualification testing may be performed so that Aqwest would be prepared to sell the product to the space market at the end of Phase II. In Phase III (Dual Use Applications), Aqwest will design, build, deliver, and support an experiment to allow the USSF to demonstrate the technology in a combined effects environment. |
| N68335-23-C-0400 | Accelerated High-Power Blue Laser Design Cycle Enabled by Deep Neural Networks | $139,929 | AQWEST, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-022 | 05/23/2023 | 11/27/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Aqwest LLC proposes to develop an automated design process using using neural networks and machine learning algorithms, which is adapted for a high-peak-power for a blue laser system with high-repetition-rate. The neural networks-machine learning process will generate blue laser system designs meeting the Navy size, weight, performance, and reliability requirements 50 times faster compared to the conventional “manual” laser design process. The neural networks-machine learning offers key benefits to the US Navy, namely an automated blue laser design algorithms generating results within ±5% variation of the target, which addresses all design parameters of a multistage laser architecture. The algorithms will be verified on a physical prototype and benchmarked to verify time reduction. The resulting algorithms support a range of blue laser architectures including solid-state laser and optical parametric oscillators. They are also adaptable to designing and optimizing of a broad range of laser systems, and extendable to address multi-parameter problems in other fields. |
| N68335-23-C-0508 | Gun Weapons Systems Synthetic Unmanned Aerial Systems Imagery Data Set | $139,896 | ARCHARITHMS INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-037 | 07/13/2023 | 01/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Naval Seas Systems Command (NAVSEA) is looking to utilize computer vision algorithms to assist with automated target recognition (ATR) of Group 1 and Group 2 unnamed aerial systems (UAS). To successfully train an algorithm, NAVSEA requires datasets of the targets of interest. Collecting large amounts of data is expensive and time-consuming; however, synthetic data generation limits these risks. This synthetic data must be diverse, contain labels, and conform with a commonly available class ontology. Arcarithm proposes using ImageBrew®, a fully configurable synthetic data generation tool, to generate synthetic data for NAVSEA. The soundness and technical merit of ImageBrew are proven through years of use by Arcarithm to train computer vision algorithms. Government stakeholders, including the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force, have field-tested these algorithms which is evidence of its technical merit. |
| FA8614-23-9-0008 | FA8614-23-9-0008 Archer Aviation | $32,076,934 | ARCHER AVIATION INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX20D-TCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 01/21/2027 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Archer is pleased to share our technical Flight Test and Certification data, our mobile flight simulator, up to four Aircraft for the Air Force to perform ConOps, other development projects, and partner on developing and performing training on the Archer |
| FA9451-23-P-A017 | High Power Microwave Testing Sources Development | $149,999 | ARCHER LABORATORIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF224-0003 | 04/04/2023 | 01/04/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Effects testing is a complex experiment that can only be performed when the correct tools are in place. These tools include pulsed power systems and sources that have the appropriate peak power, pulse width, and frequency characteristics. To enable this t |
| W81XWH21C0010 | Inexpensive Haptics Based Simulation of Military Medicine | $1,649,715 | ARCHIE MD INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF161-046 | 07/14/2023 | 07/13/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | The more effective medical simulation model would address these needs by incorporating both the visually realistic physiology of a casualty and tactile fidelity of performing the procedure. This would better prepare warfighter trainees to recognize and treat evolving emergencies during prolonged casualty care. • The enhancement funding will be utilized to integrate a previously developed robust PC based Virtual Patient Platform with an inexpensive haptic device that is currently linked to a game engine to simulate the performance of several lifesaving procedures. • This integration will add fidelity to the simulation by combining assessment, treatment decisions and a more detailed and realistic performance of procedures. The trainee will need to demonstrate a higher level of competence in that they will need to not only recognize that the casualty requires a needle decompression during a tension pneumothorax scenario, but they will also need to know how to perform each step of the procedure correctly in order to treat the condition. They then must reassess the casualty to see if the intervention has been effective and detect any complications that may have occurred. By moving forward to a later point in time, trainees can practice vital prolonged casualty care skills; an initial treatment can develop complications that will need to be addressed. This capability is lacking in manikins. |
| FA8750-23-C-B008 | Integrated Simulation Test and Analysis for IoT (InstaIoT) | $1,249,991 | [ ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY INC] | SBIR | Phase II | AF221-0016 | 09/14/2023 | 09/13/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Integrated Simulation Test and Analysis for IoT (InstaIoT) offers a cloud-based platform for collaborative IoT modeling and simulation, providing IoT system designers and evaluators a powerful tool to design, test and evaluate the capability and performan |
| N68335-23-C-0161 | Metis (Modernization Enhancement Technology Insertion System) | $799,949 | [ ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY INC] | SBIR | Phase II | N211-023 | 12/19/2022 | 12/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Metis enables collaborative mission planning across locations connected by low-bandwidth, unreliable network links. It provides a Synchronization Service to ensure planners at different locations have consistent views of plans and planning data. This service works across network connections and disconnections and can detect conflicts when service state is updated independently at different locations. It is designed to be secure and can be used for collaborating on, and for sharing classified mission plans and data. The Metis Synchronization Service will be integrated with the NGNMPS (Next Generation Navy Mission Planning System) microservices. |
| FA5606-23-C-0009 | Foreign Object Retrieval System (FORS) | $179,978 | [ ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY INC] | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0014 | 08/30/2023 | 09/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Flightline workers currently perform foreign object debris (FOD) checks prior to every airfield entry, which may be adversely affected by various external factors. Any missed foreign object (FO) presents a significant hazard to aircraft operating on the a |
| FA8649-23-P-0509 | Autonomous Systems – Enabling ACE and Rapid Air Base Opening in Dynamic and Often Contested Environments | $1,250,000 | ARES SECURITY CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/07/2023 | 08/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The future of warfare is autonomous. Autonomous intelligent systems - drones, ground robots, weaponized platforms, and surface/undersea vehicles - are being fielded in combat and various military applications. To keep pace, the DoD must embrace this techn |
| HT9425-23-P-0105 | Improving Medical Training for Cold Weather Injuries with Haptic Virtual Reality Simulations | $249,991 | ARCHIE MD INC. | SBIR | Phase I | DHA232-003 | 09/18/2023 | 04/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | ArchieMD's proposed haptic VR simulations for cold weather injury assessment, management, and treatment combine the most important aspects of various skills training pedagogies into a single immersive training system. This system will incorporate and overlay theoretical knowledge in a practical context to supplement traditional educational models. The military has more recently acknowledged the need to provide appropriate care to service members in climates that are different than the Middle East. For instance, the physical environment of the Middle East is typically hot and arid, whereas U.S. military bases in the Arctic circle experience drastically different weather. In cold environments, military members face not only service-related injuries, but also cold weather injuries like frostbite, hypothermia, chilblain, and immersion foot. Cold weather injuries can be avoided by wearing the appropriate gear and limiting exposure to the elements; however, these steps are not always feasible for military service members given the nature of their occupations. As such, it is critical that military medics can identify and properly care for service members who have a cold weather injury. ArchieMD’s technology will help military medics identify and care for cold weather injuries. In this Phase I application, ArchieMD proposes to 1) develop a mobile application for non-battlefield injury assessment in cold weather environments, 2) create a virtual patient simulator for cold weather injury management. and 3) develop an advanced haptics simulation platform for peripheral intravenous insertion. Medical personnel must be able to distinguish cold weather injuries from each other to perform the correct treatment. ArchieMD will develop mobile applications that teach medical personnel how to identify and care for patients with cold weather injuries. To demonstrate long-term retention, it is not enough to provide information to the patient; it is essential that the patient have rehearsal opportunities to build understanding and a more positive attitude. Additionally, in cold weather environments, the mechanical properties of the body may change, thus making the performance of medical procedures feel different to the medical personnel. For example, a patient with frostbite will have harder skin. If the patient needs fluids, a peripheral intravenous catheter must be inserted. However, since the skin is harder, the medical personnel performing the insertion must use more force than normal to properly place the catheter. As such, it is important that medical personnel are trained to perform such procedures in cold weather environments. Successful completion of these aims will support immersive simulation training, allowing military medic education programs to supplement lecture- or observation-based training or replace current task trainer manikins. These easily accessed training simulations will result in improved clinical skills and, ultimately, better patient care. |
| N68335-23-C-0610 | UUV Sensor Transformation | $146,446 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T013 | 08/03/2023 | 01/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Areté and its teaming partner the University of Arizona (UofA) will develop a software tool that transforms sensor and metadata from a given sensor system into realistic synthetic data as if it were collected by a different sensor system. The exponential rise in available data from a multitude of sensor systems has driven commercial and academic entities to achieve significant innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) methods which are a cornerstone to modern ATR techniques. These innovations represent an opportunity for US Navy (USN) organizations to capitalize upon and advance in analogous albeit military-centric applications. However, the prevailing roadblock for the USN to use these innovations or develop their own is the lack of sufficient, operationally relevant truthed data to train and innovate advanced ML architectures for the USN community. Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) systems are subject to an even more challenging situation, as collecting a dataset of objects underwater is a cumbersome task. In underwater environments, the types and locations of interesting objects are typically unknown or represent rare events. Alternative data collection methods, such as manually placing objects on the seafloor and capturing images with sensors mounted on an autonomous UUV are time and cost-intensive, especially if a high variability in the dataset is desired. This may even lead to longer resource commitments, test runs, and mission times to ensure each sensor, and associated algorithms, have an opportunity to collect target information in a variety of environmental conditions. Areté's aim is to develop the Navy UUV Sensor Transformation Tool (STT) technology to provide the USN with a cost-effective, easy-use tool for generating realistic synthetic data. The STT application will make use of both existing real sensor data collections, which can be transformed into needed sensor data types or by creating synthetic scenarios, which can be transformed into needed sensor data types. This data creation capability will remove the bottleneck of a dearth of training data necessary for developing, training, testing, and validating advanced ATR algorithms for UUV applications. |
| W911NF23P0029 | Artemis (Augmented Reality To Enhance Medical Instruction for Soldiers) | $199,936 | [ ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY INC] | SBIR | Phase I | A234-009 | 08/01/2023 | 10/31/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | The Army, and the DoD in general, has a gender casualty survivability gap problem: female casualties have a significantly lower survival rate than male casualties. Reasons for this gender gap include: training is done largely with male manikins and female abdominal and chest wounds are not identified or treated properly because of hesitancy in exposing these parts of the female body. The Army is addressing this problem by using Gender Retrofit Kits to convert male manikins to female to provide gender specific training. However, much more needs to be done including developing training methods and material that give soldiers the skills and confidence needed to treat female casualties. Architecture Technology Corporation (ATCorp) and its sub-contractor Raytheon BBN Technologies propose Artemis (Augmented Reality To Enhance Medical Instruction for Soldiers) to reduce the gender survivability gap. Artemis combines physical training using manikins with augmented reality (AR) based training. Physical training provides the hands-on experiences essential for building confidence in the ability to provide the necessary care when needed. AR allows for personalized, one-on-one instruction by human trainers without requiring a trainer for each student or requiring the trainer to be co-located with the student. One-on-one training will help soldiers overcome the psychological barriers that contribute to female casualties not getting the care they need. |
| N68335-23-C-0672 | Signal Processing for Underwater Explosion Detection and Localization | $146,338 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | SBIR | Phase I | N231-048 | 08/09/2023 | 02/20/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Autonomous detection, classification, and localization of underwater explosions reduces or eliminates the need for post battle damage assessment (BDA) missions, which saves time, cost, boosts efficiency, and frees mine detecting assets. Arete proposes to develop, deliver, and integrate a custom, low SWaP-C edge processor board with onboard algorithms for BDA. The board is compatible with A-size sonobuoys and utilizes existing fleet USBL arrays for acoustic data collection. The objectives of this Phase 1 feasibility study are to refine functional requirements and performance metrics; develop a preliminary system design, including algorithms and low-power edge processing board, suitable for SWaP and cost analysis; demonstrate, through simulations, the algorithm performance to localize explosions, count the number of explosions, as well as classify explosion sources as neutralizer, sympathetic mine detonation, or both; and lastly to identify technology development risk areas. |
| FA9453-23-P-A037 | SABER: Software-defined Agile Blockchain Enhanced Resource provisioning | $149,993 | [ ARCHITECTURE TECHNOLOGY INC] | SBIR | Phase I | AF224-0011 | 03/27/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The DoD has used satellite communications for many decades now. Historically, SATCOM used satellites as relays in the sky connecting ground stations. Communications between distant locations on the ground required bouncing up and down across multiple gr |
| N68335-23-C-0391 | Autonomous Quantitative Imaging System (AQuIS) | $146,459 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T023 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | AQuIS, the Autonomous Quantitative Imaging System is an active underwater imaging system which utilizes an embedded processor to acquire and process imagery in multiple fields of view, process the imagery to extract information on object location and size over time, and create compressed data reports for transmission. It is intended for use on a variety of long endurance oceanographic platforms like Argo floats, small two-person portable autonomous underwater vehicles, and gliders. AQuIS builds off of advances in digital image sensor performance, a variety of scientific image acquisition and processing techniques, and the increasing performance of embedded processors to create a low-size, weight, and power underwater imaging system for the Navy. AQuIS is intended to expand oceanographic monitoring capabilities by providing data on small-scale processes in the millimeter to meter range which is typically only collected during directed field campaigns, building long-term datasets suitable for a variety of oceanographic projects.AQuIS, the Autonomous Quantitative Imaging System is an active underwater imaging system which utilizes an embedded processor to acquire and process imagery in multiple fields of view, process the imagery to extract information on object location and size over time, and create compressed data reports for transmission. It is intended for use on a variety of long endurance oceanographic platforms like Argo floats, small two-person portable autonomous underwater vehicles, and gliders. AQuIS builds off of advances in digital image sensor performance, a variety of scientific image acquisition and processing techniques, and the increasing performance of embedded processors to create a low-size, weight, and power underwater imaging system for the Navy. AQuIS is intended to expand oceanographic monitoring capabilities by providing data on small-scale processes in the millimeter to meter range which is typically only collected during directed field campaigns, building long-term datasets suitable for a variety of oceanographic projects. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7162 | ASIM Pathfinder | $1,430,422 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | SBIR | Phase II | AF161-056 | 09/28/2023 | 09/27/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Areté proposes a method to address midcourse missile defense via advanced algorithmic techniques combined with a strong theoretical backing in physics. |
| FA9453-23-C-A028 | Arete Neuromorphic Star Tracker | $149,992 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0010 | 01/12/2023 | 10/12/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Star trackers are ubiquitous in space applications, providing accurate absolute pointing calibration to satellites and other space based systems. However, most celestial scenes are extremely sparse, featuring relatively few stars on a fixed black background, wasting power and data processing on nearly featureless images. The inefficient data usage combined with motion blur associated with platform motion limits typical star trackers to operation below 5 degrees per second. This low operational speed: can lead to lost in space failure modes; limits application to highly dynamic platforms; and requires intermittent recalibration for some platforms, which reduces up time. Event cameras excel at imaging highly dynamic sparse scenes with no motion blur, and are an emerging technology that Areté believes will be an enabling technology for next generation star trackers. Areté will establish the viability of event cameras for star tracking applications through a series of laboratory based calibrations with current generation state-of-the-art event cameras and will design a brass-board system known as the Areté Neuromorphic Star Tracker (AN-ST). The AN-ST will be based on existing Areté algorithms for event camera processing and star catalog mapping algorithms developed for previous programs. If the current generation technology is viable, the AN-ST will enable a new generation of extremely fast attitude determination systems. If current technology is insufficient to meet the requirements for this application, Areté will provide a roadmap for further development, and partner with event camera manufacturers to encourage sensor development. The AN-ST will build on Areté’s experience in accurate object tracking with event camera data, and existing codebases for stellar navigation, allowing an efficient trade study focused on investigating novel components and not recreating existing algorithms/techniques |
| N68335-23-C-0605 | Prompt Realistic Inference of Nowcasted Cloud Environments (PRINCE) | $146,460 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T025 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | To address the need to improve at-sea Naval operations that rely on accurate visibility information, Areté, in collaboration with the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH), proposes the development of Prompt Realistic Inference of Nowcasted Cloud Environments (PRINCE), a novel artificial intelligence (AI) framework that enables realistic simulation of cloud and visibility properties at nowcasting timescales (0-24 hours) via intelligent morphing from the numerical weather prediction (NWP) domain to the true environment. Phase I technical objectives include: (1) a regionalized proof-of-concept demonstration of deriving nowcasted cloud parameters, (2) interviewing a relevant stakeholder for feedback on preferred capabilities, (3) a physical validation and verification of model behavior and performance, and (4) presenting a preliminary prototype design for review and discussion. Phase I development of PRINCE will reach Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3, with Phase I Option achieving TRL 4. A mature PRINCE algorithm would ingest very high-resolution NWP to deliver a robust 4D representation of future cloud environments on the 0-24 hr nowcasting timescale. |
| N68335-23-C-0159 | Direct 2 Green | $599,942 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | SBIR | Phase II | N211-063 | 03/09/2023 | 03/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The focus of the Compact, Efficient, High Power Direct-to-Green Laser Source SBIR is to develop a highly efficient green laser source tailored for Mine Countermeasures (MCM) in the SurfZone (SZ) and Very Shallow Water (VSW) regions. Areté is proposing to develop a pulsed 532 nm laser system achieving 125 mJ per pulse at a repetition rate of up to 400 Hz and a wall plug efficiency approaching 7%. Areté’s approach will be to leverage the laser technology being used in our existing air-cooled AIRTRAC military laser product line with design adjustments predicted to improve the wall plug efficiency. Areté’s AIRTRAC laser technology uses multiple patented technologies that utilize a highly efficient diode pumping mechanism that recycles pump light through the cavity mode for efficient energy transfer into output optical energy. The laser also uses a twisted optical cavity mode that innately limits the laser’s sensitivity to thermal variations and thermal gradients. Additionally, the AIRTRAC laser products have been tested to MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461, and MIL-STD-464 requirements. |
| N68335-23-C-0643 | Long-Range Acoustic Communications System | $146,344 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | SBIR | Phase I | N231-036 | 08/29/2023 | 02/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Reliable, long range, low probability of detection (LPD) underwater acoustic communications will enable the Navy to covertly transmit service-requests, alerts, coordination messages, etc. to unmanned systems operating in deep and shallow ocean environments. Areté proposes to develop, deliver, and integrate a low frequency, long distance acoustic communications system for asymmetric communications with unmanned vessels in deep and shallow waters. The Objectives of this Phase I Feasibility Study are to develop functional requirements and performance metrics; produce a preliminary system design suitable for SWaP and cost analysis; assess the acoustic system performance through simulations and laboratory testing; and identify technology development risk areas. |
| N68335-23-C-0012 | External Payload Deployment System for Cylindrical UUVs | $999,954 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | SBIR | Phase II | N212-123 | 10/31/2022 | 11/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Areté proposes to develop the REMORA payload carrier system. REMORA provides the ability to rapidly attach and deploy a payload externally from a cylindrical unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) without the need for vehicle modification or additional launcher hardware. The expendable system uses a high-strength vacuum force to adhere to the vehicle while remaining neutrally buoyant. A custom vacuum release mechanism provides the capability to self-deploy when commanded by the vehicle via a high-frequency, localized through-hull acoustic communications system. Areté demonstrated a functional prototype system in a laboratory setting and conducted modeling and simulation during the Phase I period to prove feasibility. In Phase II, Areté proposes to develop multiple full-scale prototypes for in-water test and evaluation on a Navy UUV asset. Areté’s Phase II plan includes critical hardware design, fabrication of multiple prototypes, and field testing to mature the proposed technology for the Navy. Areté’s demonstrated experience with UUV hardware production and integration reduces programmatic risk. |
| FA8649-23-P-0448 | Autonomous Robotic System Resiliency When the Unexpected Happens | $1,250,000 | ARES SECURITY CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 08/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The 45 SFS oversees force protection and base defense for Patrick Space Force Base (PSFB) / Cape Canaveral Space Force Station (CCSFS). The 45 SFS has explored autonomous quadrupedal unmanned ground vehicles (Q-UGVs) to automate and augment perimeter security, free up manpower, reduce hazards to Defenders, and maintain an active security posture. Patrol environments are extremely dynamic and full of debris such as fallen trees, temporary construction, and wreckage that can disrupt the robots’ ability to autonomously navigate on predetermined pathways. Airmen must manually travel to a downed robot, troubleshoot the issue, reprogram the robot, and redeploy it. Depending on the location this can take hours and takes a Defender from their other duties. It disables a critical security monitoring asset, the robot, out of operation, blinding the base to threats and intrusions. From a command and control (C2) perspective, robot C2 is currently highly manual. Defenders are required to use handheld controllers to program and operate the robots which creates an additional manning burden that negates the robots’ intended time/manpower benefits. These challenges negate the intended benefits of the robots by creating additional inefficiencies and burdens. Because of the growing strategic importance of the Space Domain, ensuring safe and undisrupted space launch operations from PSFB/CCSFS is critical and any threat detection capabilities fielded must operate effectively. 45 SFS and the broader DAF force protection community needs an ability to plan robotic missions, execute these missions, and integrate the robotic sensors for base wide situational awareness remotely from the Base Defense Operations Center (BDOC). The 45 SFS recognizes the opportunity to use ARES Security’s AVERT Mission Planning and Operations (MPO) and the proposed RDT&E to enable security robots to autonomously improvise, adapt, and overcome obstacles encountered in the field so that security and disaster assessment missions can be accomplished. As PSFB/CCSFS, the DAF, and the broader DoD continue to embrace autonomous air, ground, and sea platforms, the need for enhanced C2 and AI-based learning will need to keep up with operational requirements from the field. This will ensure DAF/DoD bases remain defended and the DoD keeps pace with evolving technology in warfare. AVERT MPO enables autonomous mission resiliency. The DAF approach to Resiliency is rooted in the quick recovery of mission capability when the unexpected happens. The DAF requires resiliency in their autonomous platforms and systems to maximize their performance in the field. Without resilience these autonomous platforms bog down Defenders’ time and negate any benefits the systems might bring. AVERT MPO enables a BDOC operator to remotely control the missions and operations of multiple Q-UGVs and introduces the means to overcome Q-UGV challenges without traveling to the location of the Q-UGV while on mission. |
| N68335-23-C-0592 | Real-Time Data Mining and Track Fusion of National and Tactical Data | $146,443 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | SBIR | Phase I | N231-019 | 07/12/2023 | 01/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Global Maritime Operations and Naval Force Projection require an accurate and targetable depiction of the battle space. There is a growing set of programs dedicated to the collection and collation of information, such as the Minotaur Family of Services (MFoS). However, the proper fusion of tracks from Multi-INT has been challenging, creation of target uncertainty due to data-ringing and data-looping. Without addressing the uncertainty issues, an authoritative target COP will not be achievable. Arete proposes to build upon their proven clustering algorithm CSSCAN, to create a software application (BACCARAT) which will provide accurately associated tracks for use within the MFoS. In Phase I, Arete will extend the CSSCAN algorithm into a robust track fusion engine, capable of handling disparate data sets. CSSCAN has already been shown to successfully fuse static targets in cluttered data with a high degree of accuracy on a previous SBIR. Recently, Arete extended the approach to handle moving targets and track data. Throughout Phase I, Arete will adapt and demonstrate the extended CSSCAN approach on available maritime data, such as AIS, and real and synthetic data as needed. At the end of Phase I, Arete will provide a detailed report on the performance of the algorithm on the test data, as well as an initial prototype design for BACCARAT. During the Phase I Option period, Arete will finalize plans for a surrogate system and prepare for transitioning to operational data. |
| M67854-23-C-6504 | Hand Held Celestial Navigation | $1,499,943 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | SBIR | Phase II | SOCOM203-002 | 05/03/2023 | 09/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Under this proposed Phase II SBIR program, Arete will develop, install, demonstrate, and deliver portable Tactical Celestial Navigation System (TCNS) prototypes enabling Special Operations Forces (SOF) warfighters to navigate in GPS contested environments. Modern navigation systems are heavily reliant on communication with orbital satellites to maintain positional awareness and orientation. The TCNS prototypes will utilize advanced celestial-based navigation, in a light weight, handheld form factor, to serve as an alternate when primary GPS systems are denied (due to a variety of situations such as intentional or unintentional radio frequency interference, signal attenuation from local terrain, or malfunctions on the satellite). TCNS will operate based on century’s old astronavigation practice using angular measurements between celestial bodies and the visible horizon to determine Operator location. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7163 | Degraded Environment Mitigation (DEM) | $1,436,973 | ARETE ASSOCIATES | SBIR | Phase II | AF182-006 | 09/27/2023 | 09/26/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Areté proposes a method to address a degraded environment for missile defense via advanced algorithmic techniques combined with a strong theoretical backing in physics. Approved for Public Release | 23-MDA-11635 (9 Nov 23) |
| FA8649-23-P-0553 | Building Satellites On-Orbit: A new Service for ISAM Operations | $1,651,333 | ARKISYS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 03/06/2023 | 06/04/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Arkisys is moving forward to establish a thriving services-based Space Port Infrastructure that drives a new on-orbit economy and provides novel solutions for capability, speed and resilience to its customers. These Ports are operational in any Earth or |
| W911NF-23-P-0014 | Aspect Ratio Trapping Grown SiGeSn Lasers for CMOS Monolithic Integration | $250,000 | [ ARKTONICS LLC] | STTR | Phase I | OSD22B-003 | 02/01/2023 | 01/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Office of the Secretary of Defense | In this project, Arktonics proposes to develop monolithically integrated high-performance (Si)GeSn lasers by using the novel aspect ratio trapping (ART) growth technology. The proposed transformative laser architecture is expected to fundamentally address the long-standing challenges of the missing high-performance light emitter to complete the whole suite of Si-photonics to enable many new applications, such as, high speed data optical interconnect, integrated microwave photonics, and on-chip low-cost chemical sensing. The Phase-I project is focused on the feasibility study for developing ART grown SiGeSn lasers by i) conducting experimental investigation of ART (Si)GeSn growth and material characterization to effectively evaluate the technical pathway for the growth; ii) conducting device design simulation and prototype device development to establish the baseline characteristics and scale up the device for power output; iii) Investigating device fabrication to be fully integrated with Si-CMOS. |
| FA8650-23-P-1078 | Monolithically Integrated GeSn Photodetectors on Si for High Performance IR Image Sensors | $150,000 | [ ARKTONICS LLC] | STTR | Phase I | AF22A-T006 | 12/02/2022 | 09/30/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In this project, Arktonics proposes to develop monolithically integrated GeSn photodetectors on Si for high performance IR imaging sensors. The proposed sensing materials, GeSn semiconducting alloys, have spectral sensitivity that could cover a broad wavelength range from SWIR, MWIR, to LWIR. The GeSn sensor array could be manufactured using standard IC industry techniques for high volume production, high reliability, and low cost. The proposed technology could be disruptive for IR imaging market. This Phase-I project is focused on the feasibility study by i) conducting theoretical modeling and experimental investigation of different GeSn growth techniques to characterize the materials to effectively evaluate the best technical pathway for CMOS integration and ii) conducting preliminary device design simulation and prototype device development to establish the baseline characteristics. |
| FA8650-23-C-1140 | SiGeSn LADAR Receiver | $1,250,000 | [ ARKTONICS LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D033 | 03/17/2023 | 06/16/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In this project, Arktonics will develop a revolutionary infrared sensor technology platform offering monolithic integration of Complementary Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor (CMOS) circuits with a high-performance detector array made from an emerging group-IV al |
| N68335-23-C-0142 | External Payload Deployment System for Cylindrical UUVs | $999,028 | ARMADA MARINE ROBOTICS INC | SBIR | Phase II | N212-123 | 01/30/2023 | 01/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Navy has identified a need for External Payload Deployment Systems (EPADS) for cylindrical Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) between 5 and 21 inches in diameter. ARMADA Marine Robotics has assembled a team of experts to address this need with this Phase II SBIR. This effort will build upon our successful Phase I Base effort that determined an A-Size (4.875” diameter x 36”) payload body as a suitable form factor for delivering a 5kg module. Under Phase I work we validated hydrodynamic simulations with in-water testing to quantify the effects of multiple payloads and payload configurations on vehicle endurance and controllability. In-water tests were conducted with proprietary hydrodynamic A-Size dummy payloads carried on a REMUS 600 UUV. It was confirmed that two A-Size external payloads would not decrease the UUV mission time by more than 25% and the parasitic drag of the mounting hardware would be less than 10% over the unmodified vehicle drag. EPADS is based on previous work at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) in deliverable transponders. The approach uses a payload that can be neutrally ballasted in a range of seawater densities, including freshwater, so that it has no effect on host UUV buoyancy when attached. Upon receiving an acoustic release command from the UUV, a motor opens a valve that floods a vacuum, making the payload negatively buoyant, and the payload detaches and descends to the seafloor target location. The UUV, which sees no net ballast change upon release of the payload and maintains neutral buoyancy throughout the deployment. WHOI has expressed interest in licensing and we will continue to partner with WHOI for development in Phase II. Work under the Phase II Base effort will include fabrication of the A-Size prototype designed in the Phase I Option, followed by bench, dockside, and tank validation testing. After a Critical Design Review, a revised design will be made and four units fabricated. Tank and open-water testing will be conducted to quantify deployment accuracy under, leveraging a REMUS 600 UUV as the host vehicle for the open-water tests. A Phase II Option is proposed that expands external payload deployment capabilities to other module sizes and classes of UUVs. |
| FA4417-23-C-0004 | Tactical Efficient Response and Replay Application (TERRA) STRATFI Proposal | $3,499,597 | ARMAMENTS RESEARCH COMPANY INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF193-DCSO1 | 06/06/2023 | 05/24/2027 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The 371st Special Operations Combat Training Squadron (371 SOCTS), Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC), and the United States Air Force (USAF) lack the required tools to enable commanders’ rapid, reliable, and precise information sharing to enabl |
| FA8649-23-P-0908 | Armodias MNAS Phase I STTR | $74,989 | ARMODIAS LLC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/08/2023 | 08/08/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In the realm of cyber operations a compromised identity puts warfighter lives at risk and may result in failed operations. The cyber operator of today needs to contend with the next generation of online counterintelligence (CI) and protect their cover. Ne |
| FA8649-23-P-0209 | High-performance dry lubricant and anti-wear coating for firearms | $74,964 | ARMORLUBE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Armorlube LLC provides high-performance ultra-hard metal coating services and solutions for a wide range of industries including firearms, automotive, oil & gas, aerospace & defense, manufacturing, agriculture and others. Armorlube’s Unique Hollow Cathode DLC (diamond-like-carbon) coating can be used to coat parts for various applications. Armorlube provides both the coating on parts and the machinery to realize it. The coating’s superior performance and capabilities can significantly reduce wear and tear of parts operating in harsh conditions. Particularly, the coating can reduce wear in firearms, replacing oil-based lubricants and extending the life-length of arms. Armorlube has partnered with the US Army for a dedicated project on dry lubricant and anti-wearing coating for firearms. The project was successful, reducing wear of coated parts by almost 90%. Armorlube coating is expected to be the technical solution for the next forthcoming MIL-SPEC, expected to be released in YF2023. |
| FA8649-23-P-0248 | Proactive Cyber Defense of Orbital Systems & Software | $74,725 | ARMS CYBER DEFENSE, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ARMS Cyber will conduct applied research and development through creation of a feasibility study with Space Delta 6 to establish the feasibility of modifications needed to adapt the core technology to fit the End-User's mission. ARMS Cyber will conduct a systematic study of the Phalanx solution to determine 1) the architecture and operating system of target systems, 2) the performance and memory constraints of target systems, and 3) how often they expect to patch the software on their systems. Additionally, this research will be used to develop the feasibility study and determine 1. The potential stakeholders of the adapted solution for solving the Space Force need(s). 2. The pathway to integrating with DAF operations, to include how the offeror plans to accomplish core technology development, navigate applicable regulatory processes, and integrate with other relevant DAF systems and/or processes. 3. If and how the solution can be used by other DoD or Governmental customers. |
| FA8649-23-P-0494 | aRoboticsCompany: Robotic Structural Damage Assessments to Ensure Infrastructure Safety | $1,245,606 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/08/2023 | 11/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Structural damage and degradation jeopardizes the Air Force’s ability to generate air combat power. At Eglin AFB, a fire suppression system burst from a valve failure and buried the interior of King Hangar with 17 feet of foam, damaging five aircraft, kil |
| FA8649-23-P-0084 | Identifying Roof Leaks Using Robotics Automation | $74,862 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Department of the Air Force (DAF) identifies roof damage using manual, imprecise, and dangerous practices. Airmen visually assess roofs for damage or water ingress after major incidents or when damage already occurred. A leak could spread and cause a roof collapse, and infrastructure teams would not know until it is too late. To inspect and repair leaks, Airmen climb ladders or walk on roofs and risk falls and injury. Because of manpower constraints and the number of buildings on bases, there is no way for the Air Force to practically inspect all buildings for leaks, putting their structures, Airmen, and aircraft in danger of sudden roof collapses. aRobotics Company (aRoboticsCo) proposes to modify and adapt its Detect-R lean inspection robots to enable the Air Force to accelerate its leak identification and repair activities and enables safer, structurally sound buildings. aRoboticsCo’s Detect-R robot solves leaks more accurately and at lower cost than standard manual approaches. The robot is deployed on a structure and uses infrared imaging over several weeks to identify roof or wall leaks proactively. The robot monitors water traces with unprecedented clarity, even before they are visible, so that maintenance teams can proactively address building damage before it spreads and causes broader structural collapse. aRoboticsCo will perform an R/R&D feasibility study to modify and enhance the Detect-R robot to operate in extreme wind and sustained cold conditions, develop custom roof tracks, and develop new configurations for horizontal structures typical of DAF installations. aRoboticsCo designs, manufactures, and operates a range of robotic systems that perform work on the interiors and exteriors of large and/or significant structures (skyscrapers, historical buildings, bridges, tunnels, etc.). We specialize in machines that optimize regulatory inspections, structural analysis, leak tracing, cleaning, and repair. Our operations and devices are certified appropriately (e.g. radar scanning meets stability and frequency standards), per ASME requirements. We have supported the Empire State Building, the Pendry Hotel, and One Grand Central Place in New York City. aRoboticsCo won the New York City Department of Buildings Innovation Challenge, outperforming approximately 100 well-established engineering firms. Our robots complete jobs upto 30% faster and upto 45% cheaper than traditional methods while freeing up crucial manpower. |
| FA8649-23-P-0496 | aRoboticsCompany: Robotic Inspections of Below Pavement Utilities | $1,247,728 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/15/2023 | 11/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Cracks, holes, and damage to the flightline, if undetected, can disrupt aircraft take-off and landing or halt flight operations. If the surface is degraded, concrete fragments can damage aircraft if they are ingested into the jet engines; this damage can |
| FA8649-23-P-0043 | Patrick Horizontal Structure Assessment | $1,249,680 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 11/16/2022 | 08/19/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Structural damage and degradation jeopardizes the Air Force’s ability to generate air combat power. At Eglin AFB, a fire suppression system burst from a valve failure and buried the interior of King Hangar with 17 feet of foam, damaging five aircraft, killing a contractor, and rendering the building unusable for three months. At Tinker AFB, an electrical substation exploded causing $7 million in damage and an explosion large enough to be seen from space. The DAF faces a $30 billion maintenance and repair backlog. More than 1,500 facilities are rated poor, based on a Building Condition Index of 55 or less out of 100. House Appropriations military construction and veterans affairs subcommittee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-New York) said she had personally witnessed “atrocious conditions,” citing “airplane hangars being held together with duct tape and coat hangers; doors that are about to fall off.” Current DAF methods for inspecting and assessing structural damage are manual, expose Guardians to risk of injury, and are not-scalable. Typical structural inspections involve Guardians manually looking for damage for an annual inspection requirement or after an extreme weather event (i.e. a blizzard, hurricane, or tornado), or these activities occur reactively after a leak or anomaly is detected. Because these processes are human-driven, the DAF cannot keep up with the total number of structures requiring inspections and repairs and must prioritize some over others. The DAF has +120 installations with 165,000 structures around the globe. The current manual, time-consuming approach to damage assessments simply cannot keep up with the sheer volume of buildings. As a result, damage goes unidentified and potentially life-threatening structural damage goes unnoticed until it's too late. The Space Force has an opportunity to modernize its approach to facade inspections through robotics process automation so that its buildings are safe and operational. NY-based aRoboticsCompany introduces that solution. aRobotics Company proposes to partner with Patrick SFB’s 45th Civil Engineer Squadron (45 CES) on a SBIR Phase II RDT&E project to test and evaluate the feasibility of deploying their structural damage assessment robots on select horizontal buildings of Patrick SFB. Examples of horizontal test structures could include aircraft hangars, storage depots, maintenance bays, and headquarters dormitories. The project will assess the robots’ abilities to proactively identify structural damage and leaks, free up manpower, and accelerate the structural assessment process. The RDT&E engineering focus of this project will be to modify, adapt, and enhance the aRoboticsCompany robots to operate in the severe weather and environmental conditions of Patrick SFB in Florida. This will include high wind, precipitation, and salt spray ruggedization and the ability to operate in hot, sunlit, humid conditions. |
| FA8649-23-P-0034 | Minot Painting and Corrosion Control | $1,249,623 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 11/21/2022 | 08/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Painting Department of the Air Force (DAF) buildings is a manpower-intensive, time-consuming, and potentially hazardous activity for the Air Force. It is a familiar scene: teams of Airmen donning extensive personal protective equipment (PPE) with spray guns or rollers hoisted alongside structures to reapply paint. For example, at Minot Air Force Base (AFB), the 5th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) deploys teams of 2-3 Airmen on lifts and hoists to manually repaint large walls and steel structures. This process can occupy multiple days and takes Airmen away from their routine work. This can also be hazardous. Paints often contain and expose Airmen to volatile organic compounds and fumes. Minot experiences 58mph winds on average. Such winds can blow Airmen off roofs or ladders and the cold causes frostbite while they perform these activities. Many air bases experience extreme weather throughout the year that deteriorates paint and necessitates frequent repainting. Structural paint is a critical preventative maintenance tool that protects underlying metals from corrosion and masonry from freeze-thaw damage. The weather at Minot erodes away paint and coatings, leaving underlying structures vulnerable to accelerated corrosion. Undetected and unattended corrosion of a critical base building like a hangar can result in structural collapse that risks lives, aircraft, and millions of dollars worth of damage. Repainting is thus a critically necessary, time-consuming task to protect valuable capital assets and structures. A floor collapse at Malmstrom Air Force Base (AFB) caused a six month stoppage of training for nuclear maintenance technicians. At Eglin AFB, a fire suppression system burst from a valve failure and buried the interior of King Hangar with 17 feet of foam, damaging five aircraft, killing a contractor, and rendering the building unusable for three months. At Tinker AFB, an electrical substation exploded, causing $7 million in damage and an explosion large enough to be seen from space. The DAF alone faces a $30 billion maintenance and repair backlog. The labor-intensive necessity of repainting structures contributes to these costs. With Airmen lives, hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of equipment, and strategic aircraft at risk, manual structural painting is not an effective way to ensure Air Force structures are well-maintained, structurally safe, and operational. The Air Force has an opportunity to modernize its approach to structural repainting through robotics process automation so that its buildings are safe and operational. NY-based aRoboticsCompany introduces that solution. For this proposed Direct to Phase II (D2P2) effort, aRoboticsCompany Inc (aRoboticsCo, aRc) proposes to partner with the 5 CES at Minot AFB to test and evaluate the feasibility of deploying a modified and enhanced variant of their Clean-R window and facade washing robots to repaint exteriors, mitigate damage, and reduce surface wear (version name: Paint-R). |
| FA8649-23-P-0029 | Grand Forks Horizontal Structures | $1,249,401 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 11/17/2022 | 08/19/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Structural damage and degradation jeopardizes the Air Force’s ability to generate air combat power. At Eglin AFB, a fire suppression system burst from a valve failure and buried the interior of King Hangar with 17 feet of foam, damaging five aircraft, killing a contractor, and rendering the building unusable for three months. At Tinker AFB, an electrical substation exploded causing $7 million in damage and an explosion large enough to be seen from space. The DAF faces a $30 billion maintenance and repair backlog. More than 1,500 facilities are rated poor, based on a Building Condition Index of 55 or less out of 100. House Appropriations military construction and veterans affairs subcommittee Chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-New York) said she had personally witnessed “atrocious conditions,” citing “airplane hangars being held together with duct tape and coat hangers; doors that are about to fall off.” The Air Force uses manual, time-consuming and high-risk processes to perform damage assessment activities that are unable to keep up with the amount of work required. Typical structural inspections involve Airmen manually looking for damage for an annual inspection requirement or after an extreme weather event (i.e. a blizzard, hurricane, or tornado), or these activities occur reactively after a leak or anomaly is detected. Because these processes are human-driven, the DAF cannot keep up with the total number of structures requiring inspections and repairs and must prioritize some over others. The DAF has +120 installations with 165,000 structures around the globe. The current manual, time-consuming approach to damage assessments simply cannot keep up with the sheer volume of buildings. As a result, damage goes unidentified and potentially life-threatening structural damage goes unnoticed until it's too late. The Air Force has an opportunity to modernize its approach to facade inspection through robotics process automation so that its buildings are safe and operational. NY-based aRoboticsCompany introduces that solution. aRoboticsCompany proposes to partner with Grand Forks AFB’s 319th Civil Engineer Squadron (319 CES) on a SBIR Phase II RDT&E project to test and evaluate the feasibility of deploying their structural damage assessment robots on select horizontal buildings of Grand Forks AFB. Examples of horizontal test structures could include aircraft hangars, storage depots, maintenance bays, and headquarters dormitories. The project will assess the robots’ abilities to proactively identify structural damage and leaks, free up manpower, and accelerate the structural assessment process. The RDT&E engineering focus of this project will be to modify, adapt, and enhance the aRoboticsCompany robots to operate in the extreme weather and environmental conditions of Grand Forks AFB in North Dakota. This will include high wind and extreme cold ruggedization and the ability to operate with frost and precipitation build-up. |
| FA8649-23-P-0495 | aRoboticsCompany: Faster, Safer, Automated Structural Repairs Robots | $1,244,273 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/15/2023 | 11/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Significant amounts of the Air Force’s infrastructure require repair. At Eglin AFB, a fire suppression system burst from a valve failure and buried the interior of King Hangar with 17 feet of foam, damaging five aircraft, killing a contractor, and renderi |
| FA8649-23-P-1156 | Detect-R: Enhanced and Scalable Leak Detection Robots to Strengthen Air Base Infrastructure Resiliency | $1,249,825 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 04/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | PROBLEM: Aging and poorly maintained air base infrastructure plague the Air Force. The Department of the Air Force (DAF) faced a $30 billion maintenance and repair backlog in 2022. This backlog carries dangerous and costly consequences. If not addressed, |
| FA8649-23-P-0170 | Robotic Structural Damage Assessment Using Non-Destructive Testing Methods | $74,862 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Extreme weather erodes Department of the Air Force building facades and risks structural collapse. The Air Force assesses building damage using manual, time-consuming, and imprecise visual inspections that fail to identify underlying structural degradation. Current damage assessment processes only occur after extreme weather incidents or once a leak, hole, or crack appears. Airmen deploy on ladders or ropes along building facades, risking falls and injuries. Assessments take several hours and Airmen per building. Due to manpower and time constraints, structural damage may go undetected for months on certain buildings, until it is too late. aRobotics Company (aRoboticsCo) proposes to modify and adapt its NDTest-R robot to automate damage assessment activities so the Air Force can rapidly and safely identify structural damage in building facades. aRoboticsCo's NDTest-R robot uses various non-destructive testing technologies including GPR, Ultrasound, and Schmidt Hammer to inspect and detect structural issues. It can be deployed on virtually any DAF structure for the best possible structural assessment prior to repair. aRoboticsCo will perform an R/R&D feasibility study to modify and adapt the NDTest-R robot from its commercial uses to perform pavement evaluations for DAF flightlines in order to identify underlying damage and underground leaks. aRoboticsCo designs, manufactures, and operates a range of robotic systems that perform work on the interiors and exteriors of large and/or significant structures (skyscrapers, historical buildings, bridges, tunnels, etc.). We specialize in machines that optimize regulatory inspections, structural analysis, leak tracing, cleaning, and repair. Our operations and devices are certified appropriately (e.g. radar scanning meets stability and frequency standards), per ASME requirements. We have supported the Empire State Building, the Pendry Hotel, and One Grand Central Place in New York City. aRoboticsCo won the New York City Department of Buildings Innovation Challenge, outperforming approximately 100 well-established engineering firms. Our robots complete jobs upto 30% faster and upto 45% cheaper than traditional methods while freeing up crucial manpower. |
| FA8649-23-P-0760 | Seal-R Robot: Accelerating flightline Snow Plowing and Removal from Flightlines Using Robotic Process Automation | $74,853 | AROBOTICSCOMPANY, INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/12/2023 | 08/14/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Current flightline snow removal activities are highly manual, time-consuming, and unable to meet the high volume of snow that accumulates during blizzards at several strategically critical Air Force bases. Airmen are exposed to extreme cold conditions and |
| W51701-23-C-0015 | Radio Frequency Mobile Signature Capability | $999,645 | ARTEMIS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A18-114 | 04/06/2023 | 04/11/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W51701-23-C-0231 | Stationary Target Indicator Waveforms for Theoretical Active Electronically Scanned Array Antenna | $1,698,628 | ARTEMIS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A214-015 | 08/11/2023 | 03/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA9451-23-P-A005 | Circularly Polarized High Power Antenna | $148,401 | ASR Corporation | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0006 | 01/09/2023 | 10/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | There are existing antenna designs that will result in the radiation of circular polarization, but not all of these are well-suited to high power applications. The two strategies that we will consider in this effort have been used previously with HPEM sources: 1) helical antennas; and 2) the coaxial beam rotating antenna (COBRA). The axial mode helical antenna is widely utilized in satellite communications and has a number of very attractive properties [J.D. Kraus, "The Helical Antenna", Proc. of IRE, Vol. 37, 3, 1949]. The antenna has a very broad impedance bandwidth (typically 40% or more) with a high input impedance of 100 – 150 Ohms. Then antenna generates a circularly polarized beam on-axis with excellent axial ratio when the circumference of one turn of the antenna is comparable to a wavelength. The helix also has good directivity (10 dBi or more for 3 – 4 turns) and easily integrates with a coaxial output port. Though it has many positive properties, using helical antennas for HPEM applications requires particular care in order to accommodate the high fields both at the feed and throughout the windings. Compromises are needed at the coaxial output, and often the use of a pressurized radome containing SF6 or another gas is required. However, an additional advantage of helical antennas is that they are easily arrayed, which opens the possibility of power sharing among elements. In the event that a radome is required, ASR has extensive experience in developing high pressure radomes for helical antennas. ASR worked with Spencer Composites to deliver 2 pressurized radomes to PEO STRI for use with the WBTS sources at WSMR. The COBRA antenna was originally proposed and demonstrated by Courtney and Baum as a reflector antenna, and was later adapted to a lens configuration. The COBRA antenna uses a large coaxial output to feed a focused aperture antenna. Normally the TEM mode from a coax does not radiate efficiently, but the COBRA antenna introduces a phase delay in the four quadrants of the aperture. The COBRA antenna has the advantage of very conveniently coupling to a coaxial output with arbitrarily high power; there is no additional field enhancement created by the antenna geometry. The reflector version can be made compact through the use of a hyperboloidal sub-reflector in a Cassegrain configuration. The impedance bandwidth of the COBRA can be very broad, but the phase delay introduced by the petaled reflector (or lens) is wavelength dependent. So while the return loss is good, the quality of the circular polarization is compromised. Data are limited in the literature about the polarization quality as a function of bandwidth, and we will explore that issue in Phase 1 of this program. Operation at the two distinct frequencies (1.1 GHz and 2.8 GHz) simultaneously, will be very challenging. However an antenna that can provide both a good input impedance and high quality circular polarization will be a major step forward. |
| FA8649-23-P-0830 | Persistent Awareness of Non-Cooperative Space Objects | $74,964 | ASSURED SPACE ACCESS TECHNOLOGIES INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Assured Space Access Inc (ASAI) has developed a small scale ground based RF sensor solution that utilizes a Conformal Patch Array Luneburg Lens (CPALL) devices to covertly detect and track resident space objects in Low Earth Orbit as small as 1cm in size. |
| w911nf23p0020 | A234-005 - Holistic Health and Fitness Readiness Kit ABS Proposal | $111,495 | [ ASSISTED BUILDING SOLUTIONS LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | A234-005 | 05/02/2023 | 08/02/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | ABS, partnered with SMM is pleased to present design solutions for the Army's Holistic Health and Fitness Readiness Kit requirement. The objective of our solutions is to ensure critical innovative technique, cost and time efficiency, mobility, provide a 25–50-year life cycle, and encompass the NFAP 285, and the New ASCE 7-22 codes design standards. Our building solutions meet the energy, height, speed, wind, seismic, snow, hurricane, and all building code requirements. Our experience, knowledge, industry partnerships, and comprehension of the H2F assures that the development of the facility will encompass the best results possible. Of our two design recommendations, we would move forward with the solution that the Army deems is the best overall fit. Once determined, we would further research, develop, collaborate, and customize the details to fit the requirement. |
| 140D0423C0110 | Byte-Taint Resonance Imaging (ByteRI) | $1,800,000 | ASSURED INFORMATION SECURITY, INC. | STTR | Phase II | AF20C-TCSO1 | 09/26/2023 | 09/27/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Assured Information Security, Inc. (AIS), in collaboration with Colorado State University (CSU) and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), proposes a second (or sequential) Phase II of the Byte-Taint Resonance Imaging (ByteRI) STTR effort. This iteration of the ByteRI program will expand upon the binary analysis and program behavior analysis concepts identified in the original effort and incorporate new concepts to demonstrate the benefits (e.g., speed and efficiency) of these techniques to the software life cycle management process for IoT platforms. This effort will build upon previous ByteRI research performed by AIS and incorporate new technologies and team members identified within the DARPA Assured Micropatching, or AMP, program. The ByteRI approach will leverage AMP techniques to showcase the impact a micropatch, a small binary patch, can have to development and deployment schedules for vulnerabilities in operational IoT platforms. |
| FA24012390014 | Advanced Secure Signal Transmission | $1,247,341 | ASTRAPI CORP | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 06/23/2023 | 01/23/2025 | Department of Defense | To effectively employ the CCS capability, Operators must project and be able to counteract target signal waveforms with the utmost precision. Adversary communication networks continue to increase in complexity and in their ability to thwart Electronic Warfare (EW) systems like CCS. Astrapi created physical-layer signal security called “Symbol Waveform Hopping” (SWH) based on novel symbol waveforms providing advanced signal security capability. Based on an innovation in signal mathematics and new symbol waveform design tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs), Signal Waveform Hopping forces an adversary to distinguish between many more possible symbol waveforms than is possible given an operational signal-to-noise power ratio (SNR). Within 21 months, Astrapi will deliver a prototype SWH TTP in a Software Defined Radio (SDR) that implements SWH in a CCS context. The availability of this novel physical-layer signal protection capability to CCS could increase the lethality of the system. Symbol Waveform Hopping (SWH) is built on top of Astrapi’s Spiral Modulation (SM) technology, which greatly increases the bandlimited symbol waveform design space. SWH uses this expanded waveform design space to improve security and transmission efficiency. As with traditional signal modulation, each symbol alphabet (set of component bit sequences) is paired with an equivalent alphabet of symbol waveforms for transmitting those bits. However, in SWH, there are multiple such symbol waveform alphabets in use over time. With this added complexity, the SNR makes it impossible for an adversary to determine the time-amplitude values transmitted, blocking any further attempt at interception. SWH is similar to Frequency Hopping (FH) in that both change an aspect of the signal at the physical layer according to a pseudo-random sequence known only to the sender and intended receiver. But whereas FH operates in the frequency domain, SWH operates in the time domain. FH in principle may be defeated if enough spectrum is analyzed. SWH is in principle unbeatable if the pseudo-random sequence is not known. | |
| FA8650-23-C-9208 | Clavius: Cis-Lunar Automated Vision-based Identification of Unknown Satellites | $1,729,937 | ASTROBOTIC TECHNOLOGY INC | SBIR | Phase II | SF222-D028 | 04/26/2023 | 08/01/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Astrobotic proposes a low-SWaP cislunar SDA payload platform (Clavius) that autonomously processes visible band data to detect faint RSOs and generate an observation (e.g., photometric, astrometric, positional, et cetera) information for downlink, allowin |
| FA8649-23-P-0606 | A certifiable battery health monitoring application for electric aircraft | $74,977 | ASTROLABE ANALYTICS INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Emerging electric aircraft promise to drastically reduce operating costs and increase operational mobility, but must achieve rigorous design assurance levels for safety. Astrolabe’s goal is to accelerate the electrification of flight by developing a confi |
| FA8649-23-P-0457 | Automated Battery Swap Technology for Persistent Quadruped Unmanned Ground Vehicle based Perimeter Security | $1,249,963 | ASYLON INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/08/2023 | 08/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | There is a need to build rapid automated battery swapping station for Security Forces teams to secure Space Operations. Due to the sensitive nature of assets on Space Operations faciliteis, USSF SFS teams intends to leverage automated Quadruped Unmanned G |
| FA8649-23-P-0101 | Cybernetic Military Working Dog Augmentation | $74,946 | ASYLON INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Asylon is adapting its commercial technology, DroneDog, with software and hardware integrations to make DroneDog into a feasible Military Working Dog (MWD) Augmentation to increase MWD readiness, and enhance force protection. Overview: DroneDog is an Asylon Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) integration with Boston Dynamics Spot platform. Our plan is to identify how advance sensor technology and AI/ML technologies can enhance gate guard procedures. These integrations include: sniffing technologies for CBRNE, License Plate Recognition Software, and Facial Recognition which we are proposing to put onto the same hardware and software architecture as part of pre-programmable tasks that the platform can for Security Forces teams. |
| FA4625-23-C-0025 | Asylon Automated Robotics for Automated Perimeter Security | $5,999,428 | ASYLON INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF20R-DCSO1 | 08/28/2023 | 08/31/2027 | Department of Defense | Air Force | During this 48-month period of performance, Asylon, Inc. (“Asylon”) will complete the RDT&E necessary to refine the DroneCore platform to the point of scalable deployment across AFGSC and the DAF. Asylon has broken this development into several different |
| FA8649-23-P-0044 | Response Vehicle Robotic Augmentation Kits for Human and Unmanned Teaming | $1,249,797 | ASYLON INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 10/19/2022 | 04/20/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | 45th Security Forces Squadron at Patrick Space Force Base (SFB) has a national Defense-related mission need in the area of Complexity, Unpredictability, and Mass. Specifically, this unit is tasked with securing a large coastline perimeter and requires the use of vehicle deployable robotics for integrated Human and Unmanned Operations. Of note, Patrick SFB is in charge of Securing the maritime perimeter around Space Launch Delta (SLD) 45 operations at Cape Canaveral. The threat and risk vectors around this area center around the need to secure the maritime perimeter from incursions. The solution for incursions includes a number of different human and unmanned vehicle operations to surveil for situational awareness as well as deter using rapidly deployable sensors. To meet this mission, 45th SFS wants to create a response vehicle robotic augmentation kit to enable human and unmanned operations for coastline environments. |
| FA8649-23-P-0755 | Combining Asylon Robotic Process Automation capability with SEEID Inventory tracking for Automated Robotic Inventory tracking, identification, and maintenance | $74,988 | ASYLON INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Asylon provides robotic process automation, from infrastructure to digital workflows using its DroneCore and DroneIQ platforms. The SEE ID platform provides real time tracking of inventory, breadcrumb history, and can easily be used both indoors and outdo |
| W5170123C0072 | Ear Melds | $149,993 | ASYMMETRIC TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A224-025 | 03/29/2023 | 07/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| H9240523C0007 | Whisper Next Generation | $1,314,992 | ASYMMETRIC TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | STTR | Phase II | SOCOM22D-ST01 | 07/27/2023 | 08/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | Asymmetric proposes to develop software and firmware to optimize data exfil throughout Whisper devices. This includes making the Whisper system have additional, tuneable capabilities to increase LPI/LPD characteristics. The current methods utilized by Special Operations Forces (SOF) personnel to maintain secure, covert and reliable data transmission in hostile environments is difficult and mission critical and have slow data rates, adding unneeded mission time and burden to operators. Enhancing Whisper capabilities by reducing size, weight, and power (SWaP) while increasing radio frequency (RF) range and data rates for mission communications will save lives and greatly increase the chances of mission success. Traditional RF transmission options also have relatively high probability of detection and interception, which presents an operational security risk that could be mitigated with Whisper's low probability of intercept/low probability of detection (LPI/LPD) RF modalities. |
| W51701-23-C-0189 | Whisper Android Vehicle Enhancement | $1,900,000 | ASYMMETRIC TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A206-001 | 07/25/2023 | 08/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | ATAK has emerged as the de facto platform for shared situational awareness across a variety of DoD and Government Agencies. The platform relies upon continuous digital communication among a user team, without which it is reduced mostly to a mapping application. Providing the necessary data links for sharing data is not always easy or convenient, particularly when operating in a situation where traditional wireless communications do not work or cannot be used. During low-visibility missions, access to typical ATAK servers is difficult if not non-existent. DoD requires a Low Probability of Interception/Detection (LPI/LPD) wireless communication solution within a vehicle to instantly provide a local ATAK capability upon soldier ingress. Asymmetric proposes to develop Whisper Android Vehicle Enhancement (WAVE). A system using WiGig (IEEE standard 801.11ad) to provide the wireless solution. A preliminary investigation will be performed on using Whisper for vehcicle to vehcile communication as well. |
| W51701-23-C-0273 | In-Ear Diver Monitoring System (IDMS) | $3,249,936 | ASYMMETRIC TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A234-004 | 09/07/2023 | 06/13/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| W912CG23C0005 | A Multiphysics Framework for Variable-Fidelity Signature Analysis of Hypersonic Systems | $1,499,802 | ATA ENGINEERING, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | NGA203-002 | 01/25/2023 | 02/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | ATA Engineering, Inc., (ATA) proposes a project to mature and validate a multiphysics framework for electro-optical (EO), infrared (IR), and radio frequency (RF) signature analysis of ablating hypersonic vehicles in ionized plasma flow fields. These flight conditions can result in complex material and aerothermal physics that complicate signature analysis. Therefore, accurate prediction of the hypersonic flow field around a vehicle with a more realistic, multiphysics representation of the interdependent physical phenomena present is critical for understanding real-world GEOINT observations of hypersonic systems. ATA has developed a software toolset, known as the Multiphysics Engine, that enables coupling of state-of-the-art solvers for fluid dynamics, material response, and electromagnetics for high-fidelity simulation of the ablative response of advanced thermal protection system materials in hypersonic environments and subsequent signature analysis. In the proposed effort, the project team will advance the signature prediction capabilities of the Multiphysics Engine by integrating additional RF signature tools and ATA capabilities for EO/IR signature analysis, incorporating additional signature-relevant physics, developing computationally efficient reduced-order signature prediction methods, and validating the toolset for mission relevant geometries and flow regimes. The resulting toolset will deliver a new capability with enhanced realism for GEOINT analysis of hypersonic systems through Multiphysics Engine integration, which will be validated for signature prediction using mission-relevant data. |
| W5170123C0115 | In-ear Diver Monitoring System | $149,999 | ASYMMETRIC TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-004 | 03/30/2023 | 07/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0119 | Continuous Wave Cushion: E-2 Flight Demonstration | $249,852 | ATA ENGINEERING, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N101-026 | 12/22/2022 | 01/03/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | ATA Engineering, Inc., (ATA) proposes a Phase II.5 SBIR project to continue development and prepare for flight demonstration of an active seat cushion technology for improving flight crew seated habitability. Pilots and Naval Flight Officers of the E-2C/D Hawkeye routinely fly four-to-six-hour missions (which may double if the planes are made refuelable) without getting out of their seats. To alleviate the symptoms of extended-duration seating experienced by E-2 crews, ATA is developing the Continuous Wave Seat Cushion (CWC). By using an array of individually sealed foam cells that can be independently collapsed by vacuum, the CWC technology improves blood circulation for the seated occupant by relieving excessive pressure points in a way that is similar to shifting the body position or fidgeting, but without the occupant having to move. Through gradual collapse and reinflation of a pattern of cells, the occupant support surface is continually varied—allowing circulation to be restored periodically over the entire seated area. The active cushion allows the operator or pilot to sit for a greatly extended time period without experiencing numbness, excessive pressure, or muscle ache, thus allowing them to be more alert and focused on their assignment. CWC operation is achieved through a small vacuum pump and rotary valve system that results in very low power consumption and quiet operation, and the foam CWC cells reinflate on their own after vacuum is removed. By contrast, active systems that use inflated bladders require significant power to inflate and deflate the bladders, are noisy, and are unable to support the occupant without power. The proposed effort is intended to develop necessary documentation and otherwise prepare for and support the Navy’s execution of a flight demonstration of prototype CWC seat cushion units. The proposed work encompasses developing advanced prototype seat cushion units, preparing an installation data package (IDP) for flight testing of the prototype units, supporting the flight test program, reporting on the results of the flight test program, and performing a feasibility study to evaluate adaptation of the technology to another aircraft platform. |
| N68335-23-C-0460 | A Framework for Gas-Surface Interaction Mechanism Correlation | $139,877 | ATA ENGINEERING, INC. | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T026 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | ATA Engineering, Inc., (ATA) proposes to develop and demonstrate a framework for correlating finite-rate gas-surface interaction (GSI) mechanisms derived from low-cost experiments to flight conditions representative of hypersonic boost-glide vehicles. The developed framework will utilize our existing Multiphysics Engine which can model GSI with finite-rate chemistry by coupling state-of-the-art solvers for computational fluid dynamics and ablation response modeling. ATA will also use validated custom software tools for quantifying statistical distributions of unknown model parameters through calibration to experimental responses and adapt the tools to calibration of Multiphysics Engine GSI mechanism parameters and associated experimental data. In the proposed effort, the project team will conduct low-cost experiments to infer reaction rate parameters for air/carbon chemistry, use the adapted model correlation process to calibrate measured rate parameters to high-pressure experimental data from an arc jet test, and demonstrate the improvement of the proposed framework by comparing Multiphysics Engine simulation results using the developed GSI mechanism to those mechanisms commonly found in literature. The Phase I effort will focus on demonstrating a proof of concept for the proposed framework by developing a correlated GSI mechanism for POCO graphite. Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) torch experiments using oxygen/argon and air/argon mixtures will be conducted, with suitable diagnostic data collected to make spatially varying measurements of species mole fractions to compute surface reaction rate parameters. The ICP torch experimental data will result in a GSI mechanism with baseline rate parameters and uncertainties derived from relatively low-pressure measurements. To extend this mechanism to high-pressure conditions, the Multiphysics Engine and model correlation tools will be used to sample the parameter space defined by the uncertainties on each rate parameter through the simulation of an arc jet test at flight-relevant conditions. The improvement of the resulting correlated GSI mechanism over other mechanisms in the literature will be demonstrated by comparing their respective predictions for the arc jet test case. In Phase II, the project team will shift the focus to tactical materials and the demonstrated framework will be validated using previously completed ATA-led arc jet testing, at flight-relevant conditions, with relevant materials. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7512 | Reactive Jet Interactions with Multifidelity Turbulence and Tailored Finite-Rate Combustion Modeling | $147,800 | ATA ENGINEERING, INC. | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T005 | 11/23/2022 | 05/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | To advance simulation techniques, such as high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD), to accelerate maturation of DACS design through design-time trade studies, there is a need for new, test-validated models that improve both computational performance and the accuracy of the reacting jet in hypersonic crossflow simulations. ATA and CUBRC (a research institution with leading expertise in aerothermal testing) propose to leverage decades of high-fidelity multiphysics modeling and flight-relevant hypersonic testing to create a test-validated, high-fidelity jet interaction CFD model. The chemical kinetic models used in these simulations will be created using ATACK, ATA’s mechanism reduction tool that enables detailed mechanisms to be reduced to CFD-appropriate sizes using application-specific physics. ATA will create mechanisms for inclusion of flight- and test-relevant fuels. In preparation for Phase II validation tests, CUBRC will develop a comprehensive test and diagnostic plan for specific fuels, performing benchtop experiments to quantify and mitigate technical risk. As part of a Multiphysics Engine, the simulation tools developed in this project will be able to be seamlessly coupled with other high-fidelity solvers, including thermal/ablation, structural, signature prediction, and (as a part of the proposed Phase II effort) aero-optic solvers. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| FA2394-23-C-B048 | Durable Fabric for Mitigating Rocket Plume Interactions to Enable Expeditionary Landing Area in Terrestrial Point-to-Point Rapid Rocket Cargo Logistics | $1,249,814 | ASTROPORT SPACE TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | SF224-D024 | 08/31/2023 | 02/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Vertically landing a rocket on an improved, flat surface has been shown technically feasible by a number of commercial launch vehicle companies (Masten Space, SpaceX, Blue Origin). However, for terrestrial point-to-point (P2P) rocket cargo missions where |
| SP4701-23-P-0073 | CYRIN-OT: Advanced Cyber Range for Operational Technology Digital Twins | $99,972 | ATC-NY INC | SBIR | Phase I | DLA232-004 | 09/14/2023 | 09/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Industrial control system (ICS) operational technology (OT) systems enable increased process efficiency and cost savings. At the same time, they allow for increasingly complex cyber-attacks with devastating physical impacts. The ATC-NY team will design and build CYRIN-OT, a system for creating virtual “digital twins” of OT networks and performing security assessments on them. Any divergence between the physical system and its twin can be a sign of compromise or failing equipment. CYRIN-OT builds on ATC-NY’s successful CYRIN cyber range, in use by tens of thousands of users worldwide. CYRIN’s graphical exercise builder will speed the creation of digital twins, while its automated monitoring system will be used for continuous performance evaluation of the twin. |
| FA8649-23-P-1093 | High Fidelity Baseband Control Hardware for Protected Quantum Bits (Qubits) | $1,248,990 | ATLANTIC QUANTUM CORP | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/26/2023 | 04/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize high-performance computing, solving problems beyond the reach of today's most powerful supercomputers. However, current state-of-the-art quantum computer hardware is fundamentally limited by two major o |
| FA8649-23-P-1130 | AI-based Weather Forecasting System | $1,233,040 | [ ATMO, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 08/15/2023 | 12/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The ACC/A5W Weather Requirements Division and AFLCMC/HBAW provide funding and materiel solutions to support Air Force Weather units, including developing cloud computing platforms, evaluating weather models, and integrating multiple weather models for the |
| FA8649-23-P-0165 | Hyperlocal Weather Forecasting for Safer UAS Operation | $74,762 | [ ATMO, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Atmo has developed an AI-based weather supercomputing platform that replaces expensive legacy systems at one-tenth the cost while providing 10X the performance. Atmo’s platform is a tightly integrated hardware and software system for high-precision weather and climate forecasting. Using Artificial Intelligence – especially Deep Learning techniques – Atmo both improves forecast quality and drastically reduces the cost of supercomputing required to get comparable results. Then, by integrating data assimilation, AI-enabled numerical weather prediction, data post-processing, an advanced 3D map interface and forecast delivery in a single system, Atmo reduces the complexity of integration and deployment while maintaining an open platform for local scientists and meteorologists to contribute their own weather and climate models. Furthermore, Atmo has created an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)/drone weather safety platform that provides hyper-localized identification of conditions such as icing and turbulence detection. This information is then used to plot out optimized flight paths, a capability which has been validated through collaborations with Thales and Leonardo, the major defense suppliers to the French and Italian militaries. Together with the portability, modularity, and ruggedization of the hardware system, Atmo provides an AI-enabled, high-precision climate forecasting and UAS weather safety platform that can be deployed anywhere in the world. |
| FA8649-23-P-0046 | INSIGHT - Space Communication Network Data Analytics | $1,249,945 | ATLAS SPACE OPERATIONS INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 10/18/2022 | 07/19/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ATLAS Space Operations proposes the design and construction of the data processing technology capable of ingesting a wide array of sources related to the operations of a space communication network and enabling algorithms and other analytical procedures to autonomously identify trends and anomalous data via scalable procedures. The resulting solution can leverage satellite-communication specific data to be joined with external data such as space weather toward a cohesive, all-encompassing quantification of the system state. Such a platform is a pre-requisite for the machine learning and algorithmic solutions we intend to deploy in pursuit of automating the discovery of mission insights. The mission impact of this project on the DAF and DoD will be the design and implementation of a system which can scalably ingest a variety of data sources, synthesize new metrics, run algorithmic analysis of the data, and yield automated alerts about system anomalies, trends, and performance. The resulting system can inform decisions such as automated schedule adjustments, maintenance recommendations, and leverage of the human expert feedback process. |
| FA8649-23-P-0296 | Adaptive Network Security for Mission Critical Systems | $74,939 | ATOLLO TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ATOLLO Technology Solutions, LLC (ATOLLO) has developed an Adaptive Network Security for IoT Systems (ANSIS) technology based on our patent-pending Physical & Cyber Integrated Security – Intrusion Detection System. ANSIS is designed to deliver effective IoT cyber security through a novel behavioral monitoring technology coupled with robust network traffic flow monitoring. ANSIS sensors seamlessly integrate into existing IoT network environments to profile all network ingress, egress, incidents, anomalies, and other cyber-physical activities resulting in the establishment of a security baseline for each network. Unlike existing techniques which monitor IoT devices as an aggregation of simple network devices, we have developed a novel approach that adapts to various environmental and domain conditions ((including ICS equipment conditions and related set points, etc. that cause observable deviations in environment behaviors), with minimal involvement from the users, and abstracts the domain norms automatically using data from the normal operation of the IoT systems. Under this proposal, ATOLLO proposes to deliver a cybersecurity solution that addresses the security vulnerabilities of Air Force IoT systems. We will identify vulnerabilities and threats related to base-wide IoT-enabled systems that underly various DAF controls systems including legacy Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) systems used for inventory tracking and asset management; base industrial control systems (ICS); access control systems (ACS); and other IoT-enabled Combat and Logistics Systems environments. The project will then identify mitigation strategies to combat those threats through ANSIS’ inherent capabilities for detecting abnormal network activities that deviate from network security baselines. The robust adaptive network security capabilities offered by ANSIS, including network and system behavior-based anomaly detection, will vividly expose anomalous and malicious network activities, that can threaten DAF IoT systems, and afford DAF security personnel and operators the ability to reduce cyber-attack detection time, such as during the SolarWinds hack, from 9 months to less than one (1) day on an IoT network. ANSIS will reduce the time to detect cyber-attacks directed towards IoT/ACS/ICS systems by over 90%. The introduced efficiency vastly reduces the time, manpower, and capital-intensive resources spent on critical cyber-attack detections and the resultant clean up. |
| FA24012390020 | Effective Compaction of Satellite Transmission to Maximize Bandwidth and Data Security | $1,201,583 | ATOMBEAM TECHNOLOGIES INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 06/22/2023 | 03/22/2024 | Department of Defense | AtomBeam’s software is now in use over Inmarsat satellites with live customer data, reducing runtime data in real time by over 75%. No other software technology can, in real time, significantly reduce the size of the small messages generated by machines, such as tracking and telemetry, in real time. AtomBeam is highly effective for files as small as five bytes. In contrast, compression typically requires file sizes of at least 1KB to operate even marginally, making it unusable for IoT’s typical 5 - 200B messages. AtomBeam’s 13 issued and three allowed patents testify to the originality of the innovation. AtomBeam uses Machine Learning (ML) to identify data patterns in payloads of a sample dataset. Frequently repeated patterns are associated with much smaller indexes, or Codewords, and both are stored in a Codebook that is replicated on both the source and destination. At runtime, a light, fast executable looks up patterns it finds in live message payloads in real time and encodes the patterns into Codewords, a process that is reversed at the destination to regenerate the original data. As a bit-level, completely new approach to managing data, Compaction’s ability to greatly reduce small individual datagrams in real time is not the only benefit that Compaction provides. Another unique feature of Compaction is its built-in security. For newly generated data payloads, only Codewords, which are much smaller than the original data, are sent. The original data never leaves the source. Compaction obscures encoded data so strongly that a national effort would be required to compromise a Codebook, despite incurring no added computation or hardware resources. A prototyped version of Compaction that encrypts and Compacts in a single, ultra light step will be released in 2023. AtomBeam’s Compaction software is a unique and innovative system that manages data at the bit level to produce unparalleled, unique advantages that are not available with any other technology. Key benefits include: 4x expansion of effective bandwidth is cost effective, rapidly deployable Battery life is improved, critical for man-portable terminals, by sending less data Added strong security in the same, light computing step Ultra-flexible: can operate on virtually any device, any protocol, any OS Fast recovery/correction with interrupted comms aids in jamming resistance | |
| FA8649-23-P-0099 | Continued Service with Mind-Controlled Artificial Limbs | $74,943 | [ ATOM LIMBS INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In 2015, Maj. Christie Wise had just returned from deployment in Afghanistan and was on a much-needed vacation. She was paddleboarding in Florida when a boat propeller hit her, and she lost her right leg. Even though she talks about her fellow AF amputee pilots saying, “We call it the ‘amputee pilot mafia’ and we joke that you have to lose an arm or a leg to join” it is not an easy road to work back to active duty after an amputation. Maj. Wise was the first woman pilot to do so. In 2019, the VA provided care to 96,519 veterans with amputation. 46,214 of these individuals had at least 1 major limb amputation, which is defined as an amputation at or proximal to the wrist or ankle. 1,558 military personnel lost a limb as a result of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and only about 450 of them were able to return to active duty. While amputees are allowed to return to active duty, they must prove they can still do the job and won’t be a danger to themselves or others – not an easy task with the quality of prosthetics currently available to service members without paying additional out of pocket costs. It’s time to change the status quo active duty no longer need to be stripped of their careers and a significant part of their identity when sustaining life altering injuries. |
| FA8649-23-P-1188 | Application of Compaction, Artificial Intelligence and Video Compression Algorithms to SAR Images | $1,209,870 | ATOMBEAM TECHNOLOGIES INC. | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 07/19/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed solution integrates AtomBeam's Neural Compaction software technology into the (RDUCE) program and SOSA platform, enabling efficient connectivity and data transmission among platforms and systems. AtomBeam's unique Compaction technology utiliz |
| FA8649-23-P-0623 | 4x M2M Bandwidth with Compaction Software in Hardware Appliances to Enable Rapid Testing and Deployment | $74,801 | ATOMBEAM TECHNOLOGIES INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | AtomBeam Compaction is a fully operational software technology that is in use by Inmarsat for SATCOM and is in the process of incorporation by Saab in Link 16 in the Gripen E fighter aircraft. Compaction can be integrated as software in almost any device, |
| FA8649-23-P-0350 | Effective Compaction of UAV LiDAR and Other Data Transmission to Maximize Bandwidth and Security | $74,801 | ATOMBEAM TECHNOLOGIES INC. | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | AtomBeam proposes to incorporate a significant modification to its Compaction product, called count sketch, to enable Compaction to encode LiDAR data from UAS as well as other data streams. Compaction in its current release is capable of encoding most typical UAS data, other than video. AtomBeam’s process entails building Codebooks from representative sample datasets using machine learning. Codebooks are loaded on a source and a destination, and with the Compaction runtime executable, they act as translation dictionaries, allowing greatly reduced datastreams to be transmitted losslessly (fully reversibly) in two-way communication. Typical runtime reduction of data size is 75% for machine/IoT data. The result is an average 4x expansion of effective bandwidth for most users. For most data types, samples of 1 – 10 MB of representative data are all that is required to build a Codebook. In an average of 10 minutes in processing time, Compaction builds 50 Codebooks using machine learning, seeking the most efficient data pattern length to achieve maximum Compaction in runtime. LiDAR, however, and some RADAR data are very high volume and sample datasets can be multiple gigabytes in size, which is impractical for Codebook generation without modification of the Compaction code. Count sketch is a sophisticated mathematical approach for dimensionality reduction that can make Codebook generation from very large datasets practical. With this added capability, Compaction should be capable of building Codebooks from any LiDAR or RADAR dataset, irrespective of its size. This would enable the full suite of the UAS datastream other than video (which eliminates patterns by using “lossy” compression) to be compacted, and therefore effectively realize a 4x improvement in effective bandwidth. This Phase 1 STTR will utilize the combined expertise of AtomBeam’s mathematical and scientific personnel with the expertise of members of UMKC’s faculty, who are experts in LiDAR and UAS data communications. |
| FA9453-23-P-A039 | Reversible Thermally Driven Adhesive (RTDA) for on-orbit assembly | $149,999 | ATSP Innovations, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | SF224-0010 | 03/16/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This proposal addresses scope title: On-Orbit Assembly and Manufacturing for Space-Based Antennas under topic SF224-0010. The Space Force is interested in-space assembly capability, which can greatly reduce constraints, dimensions and vibrational loads e |
| FA8649-23-P-1239 | Characterization of plume-target interactions for safe rendezvous and detumbling of uncontrolled assets | $1,497,235 | ATOMOS NUCLEAR AND SPACE CORPORATION | STTR | Phase II | AF21S-TCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 10/23/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Servicing spacecraft typically use Reaction Control System (RCS) thrusters to provide precision position and attitude control during rendezvous. The plumes from these thrusters can unintentionally impinge on surfaces of the target spacecraft, or they can |
| FA8649-23-P-0572 | Verification of Third-Party Rendezvous with Refueling Tanker on 5DOF Validation Testbed | $1,681,783 | ATOMOS NUCLEAR AND SPACE CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 02/21/2023 | 05/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Despite the criticality of safe rendezvous to future ISAM operations, there are presently a lack of methods to effectively validate the rendezvous and proximity operation (RPO) compatibility of platforms developed by different operators. Atomos proposes t |
| N68335-23-C-0361 | Flat Lens Ultra-Compact Lightweight MWIR Zoom lens for small pixel | $139,660 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T007 | 05/23/2023 | 11/20/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Attollo Engineering will develop a zoom capable ultra-compact lightweight MWIR camera based off its commercial MWIR Griffin-HD8 camera with a zoom capable Metalens optic. The imager format is 1280 x 720 on an 8 micron pitch, among the smallest size in industry weighing just 240 grams without the optical lens, and was designed for small battery-operated Group 1 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The f/# of the metalens optical system can be continuously varied between f/2 and f/10, while the FOV is changed between 50° and 10°, yielding a zoom range of 5X. Near diffraction-limited imaging performance has been achieved over the entire zoom range and FOV. Attollo will integrate the zoom capable metalens into our sensor in a very small size weight and power package providing the smallest and lightest ISR system solution enabling use on smaller gimbals. |
| FA8650-23-P-1070 | Novel Low C-SWAP 2 Micron Geiger-Mode APD Arrays for Attritable Platforms | $149,666 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF221-0002 | 10/05/2022 | 07/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Attollo Engineering proposes to build on the success of their previously funded APD development to realize low C-SWAP 2 um Geiger-Mode APD sensors. Our proposed program will lead to high performance GmAPD cameras needed for mission success but with the low C-SWAP required for attritable platforms. Potential commercial applications for this technology are in the UAV/UAS sensor systems, and Attollo has relationships with a number of companies in this market. |
| W909MY-23-P-0002 | DROIC Architecture for Laser Ranging, Active and Passive Imaging with LWIR APD Arrays | $111,494 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A22-010 | 01/19/2023 | 07/18/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Attollo proposes to develop a digital readout integrated circuit (DROIC) featuring simultaneous active and passive sensing over the full array. The active channel will support laser rangefinding and time-of-flight LIDAR imaging as well as asynchronous laser pulse detection, tracking and timing. The passive imaging channel will support high-definition, low noise imaging. The array format will be 1024 x 1024 with a 12.5 µm pixel pitch. The DROIC will be optimized for use with long-wave infrared (LWIR) avalanche photodiode (APD) arrays, providing the integration well, noise performance and biasing conditions required to support the application. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7603 | High Performance Long-wave Infrared Focal Plane Arrays based on III-V Antimonide Superlattices | $1,498,098 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | STTR | Phase II | MDA21-T004 | 02/27/2023 | 02/26/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | In Phase II, the Attollo team proposes to investigate the growth and fabrication techniques of LWIR SLS and associated variants to meet the target objectives. Our plan is to push the envelope further by increasing the absorption coefficient, improving the material quality and carrier lifetime, and reducing any surface leakage contribution from detector fabrication. At the end of Phase II, we expect to demonstrate a LWIR VGA format FPA with a large well capacity and outstanding pixel response and dark current uniformity. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| FA8651-23-P-A004 | Next-Generation Focal Plane Array Semi-Active Laser Seeker Algorithms | $149,925 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0004 | 12/05/2022 | 09/12/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Attollo will develop new algorithms and CONOPS that support advanced features and CONOPS enabled by a dual‑mode, active‑passive, focal plane array SAL seeker architecture. The high‑level algorithms will be abstracted from the underlying hardware, by writing base class hardware drivers for the active and passive sensor blocks, so that the developed algorithms are open‑architecture and can be utilized with a wider variety of potential hardware. Attollo’s emphasis will be on algorithms that leverage various imaging modalities (high speed windowing and tracking, high dynamic range imaging, etc.) as this is an area that Attollo has considerable expertise. Attollo will utilize the dual‑mode, active-passive, focal plane array SAL seeker it is developing as a sensor platform for evaluating algorithmic performance. |
| 6SVL4-23-P-0005 | Visual Augmentation Systems (VAS) Range Finder | $174,738 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SOCOM234-003 | 09/22/2023 | 04/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | Augmentation Systems (VAS) Range Finder. It provides opportunities for day/night observation and range measurement in a small, easy-to-use device. We tradeoff features and SWAP-C to determine optimal combinations and document them in a feasibility study. Novel methods of presenting ranges are further. investigated and discussed. |
| FA8651-23-C-A009 | Dual Mode Semi Active Laser (SAL) Imaging Seeker | $1,247,507 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D003 | 12/15/2022 | 03/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Outfitting precision guided munitions with more capable and flexible target seeking technologies with negligible increase in cost and power and no increase in size can enable a new set of concept of operations (CONOPS) that improve lethality, increase standoff range, and allow weapons to prosecute more complicated target sets in more complex battlespaces (multiple targets of similar or different likeness, moving and stationary, camouflaged, etc.). Common electro‑optical seeker modalities include semi‑active laser (SAL) or passive image‑based seeing in either the visible or infrared bands but a new generation of seekers is being developed that combines these dual modalities in a focal plane array format that promises to substantially improve accuracy, lethality, windows of operation, and countermeasure rejection among other benefits. In this Direct-to-Phase II effort, Attollo will deliver a complete dual mode, focal plane array‑based SAL seeker and SWIR HD imager module in a single sensor package. The module design will be based on the design conclusions from the feasibility study accompanying this proposal. Attollo’s proposed approach is based on the result of the referenced Feasibility study that includes the Attollo SAL seeker FPA and Attollo’s dual-mode SAL Imaging FPA. The SAL modality of the seeker will be designed to operate day and night with no degradation in SAL performance and it will easily provide longer lock-in-range and greater countermeasure rejection than existing technology, by virtue of its multiple modalities of sensing, all while also providing a simultaneous HD daytime SWIR imaging capability. The approach will be compatible with future extensions of the dual‑mode concept to simultaneous SAL with MWIR or dual-band SWIR/MWIR imaging to be developed under future efforts. |
| N68335-23-C-0316 | Radiation Hardened MWIR | $899,947 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N212-139 | 04/25/2023 | 10/28/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Space-based imaging applications for mid-wave infrared (MWIR) focal plane arrays (FPAs) require minimal performance degradation over the lifetime of their mission. The two distinct damage mechanisms in this operational environment are ionization damage and displacement damage. The ionization damage results in generation of electron-hole pairs that can become trapped and manifest as surface currents, while the physical damage generates vacancies in the crystal lattice where electron-hole recombination can occur shortening the minority carrier recombination lifetime. The minority carrier lifetime is a key performance parameter as it affects the dark current and quantum efficiency (QE) of the detector. In this Phase II program, Attollo Engineering is proposing to leverage its commercial MWIR FPA and perform a comprehensive characterization of the radiation tolerance of the strained-layer superlattice-based MWIR photodetectors and improve the design based on that characterization to develop a radiation hardened MWIR camera that can be used in future space missions. To accomplish this goal, we will fabricate FPAs and single element detectors (SEDs) devices based on our existing detector design and explore new designs to improve radiation tolerance. We will build on our successful radiation testing experience in the Phase I program that we irradiated our standard SED and FPA devices and we will deliver 3 FPAs to the Navy customer for further testing. |
| FA8650-23-C-1139 | SiGeSn LADAR Receiver | $1,249,406 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D033 | 02/23/2023 | 05/22/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Attollo proposes to utilize GeSn directly integrated on Silicon multiplier regions and Silicon ROICs to realize an eSWIR APD solution with a 20X cost reduction goal using a wafer-scale 3D integration approach that requires no serial die-to-die hybridizati |
| W51701-23-C-0232 | Low Spectral Crosstalk, Enhanced MTF Dual-Band eSWIR/MWIR Imager | $249,928 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-013 | 08/24/2023 | 11/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0013 | Low-cost Mid-wave Infrared Focal-Plane Arrays through Direct-on-Read Out Integrated Circuit Detector Fabrication | $999,886 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N212-124 | 04/13/2023 | 04/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | U.S. Navy platforms have a need for high resolution and low cost MWIR cooled sensor solutions for situational awareness in clustered target environments, and in some cases, Attritable use cases. The heterogenous and wafer-scale integration of III-V MWIR detectors to Si read-out integrated circuits (ROICs) can be an attractive approach to reduce the cost of the focal plane array and enable ultra high definition arrays to be manufactured more affordably. The cost reduction is achieved by a parallelized approach in wafer-scale fabrication, in lieu of more serialized die-to-die (D2D) approaches used conventionally. Under the associated Phase I SBIR effort, we have demonstrated a 3” SLS epi-transfer process onto 4” Silicon surrogate wafers, and realized comparable performance HOT MWIR test diodes to as-grown SLS detectors on GaSb. While the Silicon surrogate wafers simulate the mechanical and CTE properties of Silicon ROICs, the practical objective would be to realize a III-V MWIR epi-transfer process on large diameter Silicon ROIC wafers, and fabricate focal plane arrays without degradation in performance. Attollo plans to utilize 5” SLS wafers grown on GaSb in the Base program, perform wafer integration with an Attollo ROIC, and fabricate the FPAs at the wafer-scale to demonstrate performance and yield statistics as compared to the conventional D2D fabrication approach. If the Option phase is excercised, we will increase the detector wafer diameter to 6” InAsSb detectors grown on GaAs, which has the promise in scalability to 8” diameter wafers based on commercially available GaAs substrates. |
| FA8650-23-P-1201 | Si Integrated Focal Plane Array | $149,831 | ATTOLLO ENGINEERING, LLC | STTR | Phase I | AF22A-T006 | 11/18/2022 | 08/30/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Attollo proposes to develop a GeSn / Si photodiode and tune the epitaxial layers for eSWIR sensitivity in partnership with Prof. Jack Ma (U. Wisc.) and Dr. Amy Liu (IQE) to realize 2.Xµm eSWIR detectors that can be monolithically integrated with Silicon CMOS wafers, and ultimately incorporated into low SWaP-C cameras |
| FA8649-23-P-0289 | Rapidly Established Agile Collaboration Hub (REACH) | $74,837 | ATX CAPITAL PARTNERS, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/01/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ATX Defense is developing a Rapidly Established Agile Collaboration Hub (REACH) capability. This will result in a centralized hub that seamlessly integrates satellite communications infrastructure, collaboration tools, and access to existing DoD tools in minutes to facilitate disaster response and enable disadvantaged users access to real-time information sharing. The Air Force, including large elements of the Reserve and Air National Guard, lacks the ability to rapidly establish communications infrastructure and collaborative tools such as email, video conferencing, and shared drives at forward operating locations. Existing solutions require operable cellular networks, informal use of insecure personal devices, or rely on outdated technology such as radio and high-latency satellite communications. This problem is most acute in sustained response to disasters where real-time collaboration with Federal, State, and local authorities is required to develop an operational air support picture and coordinate the participating air effort of a response. Missions held at risk include Incident Awareness and Assessment (IAA), Search and Rescue (SAR), airspace management, emergency evacuation support, and critical infrastructure monitoring. |
| N68335-23-C-0524 | Low-Temperature Gasketing Material | $139,998 | [ AUGUST RESEARCH SYSTEMS INC] | SBIR | Phase I | N231-043 | 06/21/2023 | 12/18/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | August Research Systems, Inc. (ARS) proposes to derive gasketing material suitable for the most extremely frigid terrestrial temperatures from a family of unique polyurethanes that have been in development for aerospace applications for nearly a decade. Such materials have glass transition temperatures below -90 deg F and are impervious to water and hydrocarbon fluids, even at elevated temperatures. Properties such as hardness, tensile strength, ultimate elongation, viscoelasticity, and temperature-dependent strain recovery are broadly tunable through selection of crosslinkers, curatives, prepolymer synthesis options, solvents, and fillers. Fabrication of serviceable material may be done by batch mixing and casting, blade-coating, diluting and spraying, and injection molding. Proposed innovations include identifying and achieving a set of material properties ideal for Naval gaskets and seals within the context of a manufacturing process capable of cost-effective mass production. |
| W911-NF-23-C-0007 | Phase II: Augmented Reality for Chemical and Biological Defense (ARCBaD) | $597,487 | AUGMNTR, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | CBD212-002 | 03/27/2023 | 03/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | The US military realizes that the introduction of Augmented Reality (AR), when combined with precision location capabilities and state of the art Chemical and Radiological sensors will greatly enhance the situational awareness of mounted and dismounted personnel, allowing faster and safer operations in a dangerous area. Building on a successful demonstration of detection on the move, our Phase II effort will integrate the latest chemical and radiation sensors on a manned or unmanned mobile platform, capture precision geo-located detections, and disseminate this information for visualization on an AR headset, ATAK device or convention display, by all resources in the battlespace. At the end of Phase II, we will have demonstrated a software solution compatible with the entire connected CBRN battlespace with applications across many networked sensor applications. |
| HT9425-23-C-0070 | Augmented Reality Surgical Visualization Tool for Combat Casualty Care | $1,299,972 | AUGMNTR, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | DHA191-001 | 09/22/2023 | 01/28/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | New technologies like digital simulators (avatar) and augmented reality (AR) show promise in enhancing training for combat medics and advancing the treatment of time critical, traumatic injuries. Initial development efforts have focused on marrying synthetic content with a real-world view within the augmented reality environment. Great strides have been made to make this new viewing environment ubiquitous and familiar so that the medic is unencumbered and free to perform without restrictions. Creation of this foundational visualization environment represents a critical first step to further development of new tools for combat medics. Training applications and situational digital information seamlessly deployed within this visual environment must be developed to enhance combat medic capabilities. The addition of the digital avatar along with context driven, training applications combined in an augmented reality visual environment will enhance competency and efficiency of the combat medic. The consumption and manipulation of digital content using voice commands and simple hand gestures while still viewing the patient, frees the medic to remain completely focused on diagnosis and treatment. Training applications focused on time critical diagnostic and treatment procedures for traumatic injuries will improve survivability. |
| FA8649-23-P-1129 | Promoting Airmen Hydration through Low-Logistic, Sustainable Bottled Water Supply | $1,234,613 | [ AUTOMATED WATER MACHINES, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 09/01/2023 | 02/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The supply of bottled water to personnel represents an enormous economic and logistic burden for the military, abroad and locally, where hundred thousand dollars are spent to supply bottled water to Air Force and forward operating bases. Dealing with empt |
| FA8649-23-P-0222 | Safe & convenient bottled water for the remote AF bases from raw, local water sources, with minimal logistics requirements | $74,985 | [ AUTOMATED WATER MACHINES, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As well as an undeniable environmental issue, the supply of bottled water to Air Force Bases represents an enormous economic and logistic burden for the military, both abroad and locally, where hundreds of thousands of dollars are spent to supply bottled water to AFBs and nearby areas contaminated with PFAs. By building a local mini bottling plant at the point of use, Kadeya has developed a safe and cost-efficient solution to bring bottled water from local sources to the workplace while avoiding single-use plastic bottles and reducing carbon footprint. Kadeya hydration stations integrate advanced water filtration, bottle cleaning, bottle sterilization and automated visual inspection to provide users with crisp, clear, tasteless, safe drinking water in sealed, sterile and reusable bottles. Using an advanced filtration process and an activated carbon & ion exchange filter, Kadeya purifies water of 99.999% of bacteria, parasites, and microplastics found in tap water. Kadeya will adapt its Automated Water Machines stations to provide the AF with this revolutionary model where needed. During Phase I, we will contact potential AF end-users, assess their most important needs regarding product location, sizes and number of stations, select first use cases and design the validation trial. |
| N6893623C0024 | (APOC) for HADR and Logistics | $114,497 | AUTONODYNE LLC | STTR | Phase I | AFX20D-TCSO1 | 08/23/2023 | 11/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Office of the Secretary of Defense | Autonodyne has been at the forefront of autonomy in aviation for two decades, applying autonomy in every aspect of aviation. The last 5 years’ efforts have brought the same avionics, autonomy, and interfaces to unmanned aviation, both for DoD and for the emerging Urban Air Mobility (UAM and Advanced Air Mobility - AAM) market. Autonodyne was hand selected by NASA/FAA to bring our expertise in Autonomy for UAM to their Enabling Autonomous Flight and Operations in the NAS (National Air Space) Workshops in 2019 and their 2020 Fly by Wire Summit II: Automation Integration for Simplified Handling Qualities (SHQ). The General Aviation Manufacturer’s Association (GAMA) also have asked for our autonomy and human-interface expertise in their latest Simplified Vehicle Operations (SVO) Summit this last Spring. This expertise is being leverage under current, UAM working relationships with ORB contract companies Beta Technologies and Joby - expertise that can be leveraged for potential use in Humanitarian and Disaster Response (HADR) missions, logistics missions, and potentially any mission in support of DoD activities. Autonodyne’s technologies are vehicle agnostic – they enable autonomy on board any eVTOL, UAM vehicle, or ORB as defined by Agility Prime ICO. Our autonomy stack enables autonomy through every aspect of the mission - from planning, command and control (C2), and in-flight autonomous mission and support behaviors (including autonomous sense and avoid) to debrief. Current DoD efforts have deployed aspects of our on-board autonomy/interface on programs ranging from Group 1 UAS for Navy Special Warfare (NSW) to Group 5 UAS for AFRL/DIU/STRATCOM in which we use our Human-Autonomy Interface to oversee multiple, fully autonomous, near-Mach 1 vehicles. Current efforts for AAM/UAM include two ORB surrogate aircraft. Company/partner general aviation aircraft (C-172 / CR-22) have been fitted with our avionics and on-board autonomy to demonstrate vehicle agnostic autonomous operation in every phase of flight to include mission planning and even debrief. These autonomous operations are overseen via our human-autonomy interface which maximizes situational awareness, minimizes task load, and requirements minimal time to learn given its intuitive, human-factor tested design. It is this level of Complete Mission Autonomy that Autonodyne hopes to leverage to meet the particular FOCAS AREA 1 topics. HADR, Logistic, and DoD mission sets all contain similarities to those faced by AAM/UAM. A thorough feasibility study to address the risks and potential payoffs of transitioning our innovative technologies for these missions should lead to a path to provide expanded mission capability to the broad range of government and civil users. Complete Mission Autonomy will enable ORBs for distributed logistics, sustainment, maneuver, medical evacuation, firefighting, disaster relief, installation and border security, search and rescue, humanitarian operations and more. |
| FA8649-23-P-0871 | AI-Driven Cyber Operations | $74,986 | AUTONOMOUS CYBER, INC. | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/11/2023 | 08/11/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Autonomous Cyber ("AC") is building an artificial intelligence product, "the AC model," that autonomously conducts hacking operations. The AC model accepts english language instruction from a human operator as input, e.g. "scan this target," and translate |
| FA8649-23-P-0687 | Legion User Interface/User Experience for C3 | $74,275 | AUTONOMOUS DEFENSE TECHNOLOGIES CORP. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Swarm Aero’s Legion cloud native Command, Control, and Communications (C3) platform is being developed to enable large swarms of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to be controlled by a small teams with human-in/on-the-loop and dial-able degrees of autonomy. |
| FA8649-23-P-0731 | In support of prolonged field care, enabling rapid treatment of noncompressible hemorrhage by a non-specialist in austere environments using the artificial intelligence guided ultrasound intervention device (AI-GUIDE) | $74,134 | AUTONOMUS MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Artificial Intelligence-Guided Ultrasound Intervention Device (AI-GUIDE) is a handheld surgical robotic platform technology that has, in prototype form, been demonstrated to enable a non-specialist to cannulate a femoral vein in a time and success rat |
| FA8649-23-P-1096 | Advanced Runtime Fault Prediction Technology for Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS) | $521,746 | AUXON CORP | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 08/31/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To address the Space Force need for enhanced reliability of the Space Based Infrared Systems (SBIRS), Auxon proposes to adapt its automated testing software to support real-time predictive failure analysis. It will be able to identify when the system, or |
| FA8649-23-P-0255 | Predictive Analysis of Software Changes in Cyber-Physical Systems | $74,960 | AUXON CORP | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Auxon’s Modality is already a highly adaptable and automated software product suite providing continuous verification and validation (V&V) to engineers in a wide array of metal-through-software cyber-physical system applications . Auxon’s current capabilities reduce hundreds of engineer and developer man hours to just a few minutes of software operations running seamlessly in the background while further development is allowed to continue uninterrupted. Auxon software’s current capabilities allow the engineer to progressively stress, test, and identify unfavorable behaviors and failure modes at a rate beyond anything available within the DoD or commercial market. Under this R&D effort, Auxon will investigate developing predictive analysis to reveal how newly introduced software and hardware changes could impact system behavior, prior to actual fielding. Critically, Auxon software will be able to complete this predictive analysis within a controlled environment to decrease risk to operational systems, environments, and warfighters. This ability will significantly speed up the development and test cycles, while enabling more regular updates to already fielded legacy systems with fewer integration issues. |
| FA8649-23-P-0087 | Antennas and Frequency Select Surfaces for Hypersonic Application | $74,882 | AVERATEK CORP | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As the Department of Defense and the Air Force continue to invest in next generation hypersonic aircraft, advanced sensors, and novel 5G/IoT electronics, there is a need for novel antennas and surface materials that are resilient to the harsh environments of hypersonic speeds, while maintaining communications with satellites, other aircraft, GPS, and weapons systems. Future Next Generation Air Dominance platforms and hypersonic aircraft systems currently in development by the Air Force are critically dependent on Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) reductions, however, they are just as impacted by operational and environmental considerations. Hypersonic aircraft in particular require the ability to operate within an extreme temperature range, must endure significant shock and vibration, and durability under vacuum, radiation, and UV. Averatek’s next generation of high performance, 3D non-planar antennas allows for a wide range of materials through enhanced chemical and mechanical adhesion that permits successful operation under such conditions, while simultaneously reducing fabrication cost, complexity, and manufacturing time. |
| N68936-23-C-0027 | Multimode IR/RF Missile Seeker Testbed | $139,907 | AVIATION & MISSILE SOLUTIONS, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N232-088 | 09/18/2023 | 03/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Passive sensor countermeasures development requires a full electromagnetic spectrum defense (RF, EO, and IR), defending against single mode, multimode, and multi-band threats. Threat weapon systems are evolving at a rate faster than the development/test community’s typical acquisition cycle. Therefore, to reduce the number of acquisition cycles, a modern, open, flexible, and modular dual mode seeker surrogate is vital to the USG to keep up with and, hopefully, outpace our adversaries. For commercial applications such as air surveillance—FAA—and the automotive industry—collision avoidance and autonomous control—dual mode sensors offer a very robust solution to the sensor measurement accuracy and all-weather capability requirements. Leveraging AMS’s experience and expertise in air and missile defense technologies, command and control, radar systems, seekers, threat exploitation, modeling & simulation, and prototype hardware development and testing, AMS proposes a Phase I approach for a multimode RF/IR seeker surrogate which consists of requirements definition (informed by algorithms, CONOPs, and Use-Cases), RF/IR sensor design, RF/IR system design (integration), and risk identification/mitigation that, upon completion, will lead into a Phase II prototype development and testing. |
| W58RGZ-23-C-0042 | intelligent Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (iFMCW) | $1,144,286 | [www.avnikdefense.com AVNIK DEFENSE SOLUTIONS INC] | STTR | Phase II | A21C-T013 | 08/08/2023 | 08/07/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Technical Abstract: Operational availability, reliability, and performance of Army weapons systems platforms are key factors in achieving mission success. Army maintainers and depot artisans have a requirement for an intelligent toolset to quickly detect, locate, characterize/classify, and predict wire and connector faults in interconnect cables. AVNIK Defense Solutions, Inc. (AVNIK) has conducted Phase I of an Army Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) project to develop an intelligent Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (iFMCW) hand-held toolset to detect, diagnose, and predict cable faults in aircraft and missile systems. We have worked with expert subcontract team members at Auburn University, the University of Alabama at Huntsville (UAH), and Instrumental Sciences, Inc. (ISI) to research cable properties, evaluate iFMCW waveform options, evaluate candidate data analytics methods for cable fault characterization, and demonstrate key elements of the toolset in the laboratory. Primary objectives of Phase II of the project research are to design, build, test, and demonstrate an engineering prototype with (1) enhanced capabilities of the prior AVNIK iFMCW hand-held cable fault identification tool prototypes, (2) applied data analytics and artificial intelligence techniques to identify and quantify cable and connector fault characteristics, and (3) use of statistical methods to maximize fault detection/prediction accuracy of the iFMCW tool technology for cable field data sets. |
| W912CG23P0004 | A microstructured target for high efficiency X-ray production | $274,814 | [ AWAREABILITY TECHNOLOGIES, LLC] | STTR | Phase I | HR0011ST2023D-01 | 09/13/2023 | 06/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Increasing the energy of the electron beam striking an X-ray target can lead to higher electron to X-ray conversion efficiency. For a given electron beam energy, the conversion efficiency can be enhanced through various methods. Optimizing the electron beam parameters, such as beam current, pulse width, and repetition rate, can also improve the conversion efficiency. Choice of the X-ray target material directly affects the X-ray production efficiency, as different materials have different X-ray emission and absorption properties. Selecting a high atomic number (Z) target material (tungsten, gold, tantalum) is a straightforward way to improve the X-ray production. Finally, optimizing the target geometry and thus, the electron-beam and target interaction, can also improve the efficiency of electron to X-ray conversion. The target design should enable the maximum possible interaction of the electron beam with the target material. This can be achieved by optimizing the thickness and shape of the target material, and the placement of the target relative to the beam path. X-ray beam optics can also be employed to focus the X-rays and reduce their loss, thereby increase the net X-ray flux reaching at the object of interest. AwareAbility Technologies (AAT), in collaboration with The Ohio State University (OSU), proposes to develop a novel transmission-type X-ray target with high X-ray production efficiency, which is capable of X-ray performance beyond the traditional high Z Bremsstrahlung converters. The proposed X-ray transmission target will utilize an array of microstructure features on a substrate. These features will have a wall made of a high Z material. The microstructures will be created in a linear 2D pattern on the surface of the substrate which will be made of a low Z material. This composite target design helps to minimize X-ray self-absorption in the target material and improve the net electron-to-X-ray conversion efficiency. The novel target structure will serve to increase the total effective surface area available for interaction of the incident electron beam with the target. The purpose of the target substrate is manifold - to provide a surface to create the microstructures, to act as base material supporting the microstructure, and to serve as a potential X-ray exit window. The net effect of this structured target design is expected to be an enhanced electron-to-X-ray conversion efficiency and higher X-ray flux than that achievable with a traditional thick reflection target or a transmission target with a smooth planar surface. Another advantage of the proposed design would be a reduction in the overall energy/heat deposition in the target for a given incident electron beam power when compared to a conventional thick target. |
| FA8649-23-P-0219 | Mobile PFAS Effluent Treatment System (PETS) for management of Air Force wastes | $74,983 | [www.axnano.com AXNANO LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are hazardous compounds that were/are released into the environment during routine DoD operations such as fire fighting. As a result, $974M has been spent on PFAS actions to date, including remedial investigation and cleanup. Historically, the resulting wastes were landfilled or incinerated. Now, the DoD is restricted from incinerating these wastes, and large volumes of hazardous waste are building up at Air Force bases across the US. In this SBIR program, AxNano proposes the evaluation of ERDC-developed, patent-pending PFAS Effluent Treatment System (PETS) as a platform for addressing DAF's need to decrease waste volumes and decrease waste management costs. The PETS platform is a mobile, modular waste treatment system that AxNano will further develop to perform temporary, on-site volume reduction of PFAS-laden wastewater. The PETS system has been field demonstrated 3+ times, achieving up to 10,000X volume reduction, and >99.9% removal of PFOS and PFOA, PFAS compounds that have EPA health advisory limits in the parts per quadrillion concentration range. The objectives of this Phase I are to (1) test our current hypothesis of DAF customer needs; (2) identify technical requirements of PETS to meet DAF needs; (3) refine product-market fit and value proposition. |
| FA8649-23-P-1125 | Sustainable, Non-Incineration-based Destruction of Air Force Hazardous Waste Stockpiles | $1,236,627 | [www.axnano.com AXNANO LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Department of Air Force (DAF) generates hazardous waste from mission critical operations, including aircraft repair, emergency/fire training or response activities, and fuel storage. Historically, US hazardous waste management involves landfilling or |
| FA8649-23-P-0100 | mSCWO For On-Site Complete Destruction Of Air Force Hazardous Waste Stockpiles | $74,943 | [www.axnano.com AXNANO LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The DoD needs innovative waste management technologies to protect the warfighter and support Line of Effort 2: Readiness. Traditional landfilling and incineration methods are ineffective against “emerging contaminants” such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). In fact, DAF is prohibited from incinerating PFAS-laden waste, so inventory is being stockpiled awaiting effective disposal. Technologies are being developed, but few can handle high concentrations, mixed contaminants, slurries and liquids. Some even generate hazardous byproducts from incomplete degradation. Industrial super critical water oxidation (SCWO) completely degrades a wide range of inorganics, organics, and biologicals. SCWO has been used for disposal of energetics for decades. AxNano is commercializing mSCWO - a robust, mobile unit for on-site, non-incineration destruction of wastes with high concentrations of emerging contaminants (EC). This AFWERX Phase 1 will evaluate the feasibility of mSCWO for on-site destruction of stockpiled DAF wastes containing high concentrations of PFAS, including aqueous film forming foam (AFFF). To use SCWO for treatment of DAF PFAS waste, R&D is needed to increase throughput and mobilize for on-site use. Program objectives are to test value propositions of mSCWO for DAF stakeholders, map the DAF contracting process for mSCWO adoption; and establish a Work Plan for pilot testing mSCWO. |
| W51701-23-C-0236 | A Mobile Water Purification System for Improving Army's Water Stewardship | $249,886 | [www.axnano.com AXNANO LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | A234-P014 | 09/07/2023 | 03/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-1017 | AZAK Foldable/Jumpable Electric Motorbike for SOF Operators | $1,249,450 | AZAK, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/20/2023 | 03/20/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Defense Mission Need Special Tactics (ST) Airmen serve as the Air Force’s ground special operations forces under the motto, “First there, that others may live” and to achieve this mission they are required to rapidly deploy, often into restricted environm |
| FA8649-23-P-0019 | AZAK Deployable, Adaptable, Rechargable Transportation (DART) System | $1,248,216 | AZAK, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 12/05/2022 | 09/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Based on recent engagements with the Air Force Special Operations Command’s (AFSOC) 724th Special Tactics Group (STG) Combat Development Directorate (CDD) a requirement for a durable electric mobility platform to support their missions was identified and served as the basis for a memorandum of understanding (MOU) supporting this proposal. Such a system is expected to haul equipment, munitions, or other heavy loads and, when needed, a means to secure and transport a wounded warfighter. Supporting dismounted personnel across the spectrum of Special Operations Forces (SOF) missions, the mobility platform must be lightweight, silent, durable, and air droppable to enable operators to rapidly move to and from objective positions across varied and austere terrain while providing sufficient load carrying to enable mission success. AZAK proposes to meet the 724th’s specified requirements through the development of the Deployable, Adaptable, Rechargeable, Transportation (DART) System, using AZAK S30 wheels with AZAK quick connects as the foundation for this solution. DART is a modular cargo carrying vehicle enabled by quickly attachable and detachable individual wheels containing full drive trains. DART will provide an electric cargo carrying platform with the potential for employment in virtually every environment SOF operators may find themselves in and fully capable of accompanying a team from infiltration through exfiltration. At the end of Phase II, AZAK will provide the warfighter with vehicles that have performance capabilities exceeding those currently available. AZAK climbs better than tracked vehicles, but with greater fuel efficiency and less noise. AZAK’s distributed in-wheel drive train means multiple hits would be required to disable an AZAK vehicle. The AZAK technology will meet the load carrying applications envisioned by the 724th to be used to mobilize a stretcher for medical evacuation or carry soldiers’ gear, however, the flexibility of the quick swap design may allow the same set of wheels to break down into a motorcycle which can provide even greater operational benefit. While AFSOC, the MOU signer, and the wider U.S. Special Operations Command represent the immediate transition targets, the Army Medical Materiel Development Activity, the Naval Medical Readiness Logistics Command, and the Department of Homeland Security all represent additional transition opportunities. AZAK’s patented technology places all the drive components needed to operate an electric vehicle not only inside the wheel but below the center point of the wheel. This simple mechanical innovation will initially be applied within the DART system, however, the same technology and products are being vetted by leaders in the last mile of delivery (LMOD), Space, Agriculture, logistics, and heavy machinery industries. |
| FA8649-23-P-0868 | AZAK BIG WHEEL FEASIBILITY STUDY | $73,788 | AZAK, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/28/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Technical Abstract –AZAK reinvented the wheel and built an electric in-wheel drive technology that places all a vehicle’s drive components inside and below the center point of the wheel, lowering a vehicle’s center of gravity and applying power to the gro |
| FA8649-23-P-1018 | Reducing ISR Sensor Acquisition and Sustainment Costs through Improved Metalens Design and Manufacturability | $1,249,986 | AZIMUTH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/19/2023 | 04/23/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Global Persistent Awareness and Tactical Air Dominance are key elements of the Department of the Air Force’s 2030 Science and Technology Strategy and 2023 Operational Imperatives to support warfighters in future conflicts. Adversarial technological parity |
| FA8649-23-P-0402 | Real-time monitoring of directed energy deposition additive manufacturing process using multiple sensors and machine learning | $74,958 | Addiguru, LLC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/08/2022 | 02/08/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Additive manufacturing (AM) of components via Directed Energy Deposition (DED) is a complex process involving long deposits of single-walled tracks. DED has been gaining popularity due to its ability to build functionally graded parts as well as repair components. Depending on whether the feedstock material is powder-blown or wire-fed, the source of focused energy can be a laser, electron beam, plasma or electric arc. Regardless, the complex melt pool dynamics, high cooling rates, power fluctuation, changes in feedstock flow, gas flow, etc. contribute to process instability and failed parts. It has been reported that for metal AM, the defect rate can be as high as 40%. For instance, it is seen that keyhole porosity occurs due to metal vaporization from high energy whereas surface-level defects such as high roughness are caused by low energy input. The feasibility of measuring and controlling layer height has been demonstrated when researchers at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville implemented a support vector regression model to correlate voltage and current with contact-to-workpiece distance. The group also deployed a thermal camera to study the effect of interpass temperature and dwell time showing that higher temperature on previous layers results in deeper penetration of subsequent layers to cause underbuilds. Data from sensors will be combined to develop machine learning models and understand the relation with process instabilities. Under and over building are major issues in DED process and the proposed project will develop models to measure and control bead shape in real-time to reduce issues that cause process instability and part failure. A validation build will be fabricated to test accuracy and performance of machine learning models in the measurement of bead shape and interpass temperature in controlling bead shape. |
| FA8649-23-P-0879 | Increasing platform readiness by integrating Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning for Extrusion Additive Manufacturing | $74,993 | Addiguru, LLC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Additive manufacturing (AM) has enabled the fabrication of complex designs and highly customized parts previously impossible with traditional manufacturing. The need for specialized tooling is replaced by a heated extruder-nozzle assembly that melts the i |
| N68335-23-C-0061 | Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to detect defects in additive manufacturing by fusing multiple sensor data | $139,926 | Addiguru, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N222-117 | 11/07/2022 | 05/09/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | While additive manufacturing (AM) has enabled the fabrication of complex geometries, process repeatability, and part quality has been an inhibitor to widespread industry adoption. Parts fabricated using metal AM can have their mechanical properties compromised due to the presence of defects. Presently, quality assurance is achieved by X-ray Computed Tomography (CT), which is costly and time-consuming. In-situ monitoring in AM can help in the democratization of AM by offering real-time detection of anomalies. This research aims to develop artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) algorithms that use the data generated by the machine sensors in conjunction with inexpensive optical and acoustic sensors to detect defects in Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) in real-time. The popular EOS-M290 LPBF machine has 20+ in-built sensors such as O2 concentration, chamber temperature, layer time, recoater speed, etc. This machine data in conjunction with optical and acoustic data will be used to develop AI/ML models for real-time issue detection. A high-resolution optical camera will be mounted on the EOS M290 LPBF machine to collect layer-by-layer images. These images will be analyzed by an artificial intelligence (AI) model trained to detect layer anomalies such as spatter, streaking, hopping, part swelling, etc. An acoustic sensor will be deployed to capture airborne sound waves and analyzed to identify features denoting the evolution and presence of defects. AI/ML algorithms will combine or fuse the data from the different sensors to provide higher accuracy of detection. This project will use the underutilized machine data to achieve high special and temporal information of defects. This project will further build on the current capability of Addiguru’s optical camera-based layerwise real-time monitoring technology which detects issues using computer vision and AI. Data will be generated by printing samples that will be deliberately designed to include various defects. This data will be analyzed and used for training AI/ML models. The training of the AI/ML models requires labeling of data with the ground truth which will be obtained by performing CT scans. CT scans will determine porosity in the parts. Metallographic analysis will be carried out to uncover issues and train the models. Combining in-situ machine sensor data along with optical and acoustics signals will provide a significant enhancement in the detection of anomalies. The data fusion will be carried out by developing advanced AI/ML algorithms by Addiguru’s AI/ML and software engineering experts. It is proposed that high spatial and temporal resolution obtained by fusing multiple sensor data will enable precise location of defects and thereby, significantly reduce post-build inspection costs. Successful completion of the project will demonstrate the feasibility to develop AI/ML algorithms for multiple sensory data for real-time issue detection in the LPBF process. |
| FA2394-23-C-B021 | Enhancing real-time monitoring of metal additive manufacturing using low-cost sensors and machine learning | $1,249,998 | Addiguru, LLC | STTR | Phase II | AF21A-TCSO2 | 06/21/2023 | 10/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Additive Manufacturing (AM) has enabled the fabrication of complex part geometries and provided design freedom. However, part quality has been an inhibitor to widespread industry adoption. For Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF) process, a focused laser energy |
| FA8649-23-P-1010 | Hybrid Advanced Multi-Rotor for Agile Combat Employment | $1,249,992 | Advanced Aircraft Company LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 08/30/2023 | 03/03/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The People’s Republic of China is the new pacing threat for the United States. Chinese missile technology has created threat rings, effectively keeping US capital ships farther away from targets. The US DOD will need to operate inside these rings, requiri |
| FA8649-23-P-0482 | Reconfigurable Manufacturing Systems using Collaborative Robotics | $1,249,975 | Air Logistics and Engineering Solutions, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/08/2023 | 11/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Reconfigurable Manufacturing Systems (RMS) is a modern engineering technology addressing changes in manufactured products via rapid reconfiguration and improved flexibility of manufacturing systems – machines, controllers, design methods, and software mod |
| SP4701-23-C-0091 | Automation of Aluminum Powder Transport and Packout | $1,946,415 | Ampal Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | DLA232-D07 | 09/25/2023 | 06/25/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Automating the transfer of nodular aluminum powder within a plant by using compressors or blowers can bring several benefits: Increased Efficiency: Automation will eliminate the need for manual labor, reducing the time and effort required for powder transfer. Compressors or blowers will move the powder quickly and consistently, improving overall efficiency. Cost Savings: By replacing manual labor with automated systems, we can reduce dependency on manual labor and save on costs associated with hiring and training workers. Automation will also reduce the risk of human error, which can lead to costly mistakes or accidents. Improved Safety: Handling nodular aluminum powder manually is hazardous due to the risk ignition. Automating the transfer process with compressors or blowers will minimize this risk. Enhanced Product Quality: Automating the transfer process will ensure a more uniform and controlled flow of nodular aluminum powder. This consistency will help to maintain product quality and will prevent variations that could arise from manual handling. Reduced Contamination Risk: Manual transfer of powders will introduce contaminants, such as dust, dirt, or foreign particles. Automated systems with proper filtration and control mechanisms will significantly reduce the risk of contamination, ensuring the purity of the nodular aluminum powder. Scalability and Flexibility: Automated systems will be designed to accommodate various production volumes, allowing for scalability as the demand for nodular aluminum powder increases. Additionally, automated systems will be easily integrated with other processes, providing flexibility in plant operations. Data Monitoring and Traceability: Automating the transfer process will allow for the integration of sensors and monitoring systems. This will enable real-time data collection and analysis, providing insights into the powder transfer operation. Additionally, automated systems will generate detailed reports and traceability information, aiding in quality control and compliance with regulations. Increased Production Capacity: With automation, the transfer process will operate continuously and at a higher speed, leading to increased production capacity. This will help meet customer demands more efficiently and potentially increase overall plant productivity. Employee Focus on Value-Added Tasks: By automating manual labor for nodular aluminum powder transfer, employees can be redirected to more value-added activities such as process optimization, quality assurance, or maintenance. This will improve job satisfaction and allow human resources to be utilized more effectively. Overall, automating the manual labor involved in nodular aluminum powder transfer within a plant using compressors or blowers will bring significant benefits in terms of safety, efficiency, cost savings, and product quality, ultimately contributing to a more streamlined and productive manufacturing process. |
| FA8649-23-P-0021 | Artificial Intelligence Enhanced Runway Monitoring for Foreign Object Debris Detection to Improve Airfield Uptime | $1,248,824 | Analytical AI, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 12/02/2022 | 09/03/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Ellsworth Air Force Base (AFB) operates as a functional support and launch facility for the Department of the Air Force (DAF) aircraft. In the operation of runways, clearing of Foreign Object Debris (FOD) is vital to maintaining runway uptime and safety during aircraft takeoff and landing. The presence of FOD presents a critical hazard to aircraft. Clearing runways of FOD is labor intensive and tedious, requiring the full attention of Airmen performing runway inspections. Additionally, once the FOD is identified and removed, there is no current FOD data collection platform in place. Analytical AI (AAI) is a small business that specializes in Artificial Intelligence (AI). AAI will develop Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms and a FOD data gathering platform to provide on-duty Airmen with notifications of FOD in near real-time. The cameras required for the system will be integrated with vehicles and with pre-existing fixed locations (e.g. light posts, etc.) and used during runway inspection for FOD. Technology development under this effort contributes to mission need fulfillment in the area of sensors and AI. AAI’s FOD detection systems specifically improve overall understanding of conditions generating FOD, will contribute to more rapidly detection of FOD, and will improve safety and decrease the downtime from expensive equipment failures due to undetected FOD. The specific mission impact of this project on the DAF and Department of Defense (DoD) will include safer aircraft and reduced runway downtime. AAI will use Ellsworth AFB as a use case for technology. The technology will additionally be useful at other military installations and DAF bases, at temporary runway infrastructure, and for commercial airports where FOD is also a recognized, expensive problem impacting airway safety and efficiency. AAI is comprised of a multi-disciplinary team with extensive experience in high-performance computing and software integration. AAI develops novel AI solutions designed specifically to integrate with customer preferred software and run rapidly on hardware appropriate to the application. |
| FA8649-23-P-0008 | Artificial Intelligence Enhanced Perimeter Security for Detecting Wildlife Intrusion and Improving Uptime | $1,238,999 | Analytical AI, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 11/21/2022 | 08/19/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Ellsworth Air Force Base (AFB) resides in the Black Hills of South Dakota, an area known for its natural beauty and extraordinary wildlife. While such wildlife is valuable from an ecological perspective outside of the base, within Ellsworth AFB, wildlife can present hazards to equipment, personnel, and airway safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) estimates annual damage to United States (US) aircraft of approximately $400 million dollars due to bird strikes alone. Current methods of perimeter security require an Airman to manually monitor camera feeds. Monitoring can be tedious and can be limited to single or limited number of camera feeds at a time, with detection efforts requiring full and consistent attention of an Airman. Even adding only a second camera feed reduces available attention 50%. Artificial Intelligence (AI) continuous monitoring will be a force multiplier for the Airman monitoring video feeds in four primary ways. First, AI algorithms tire, and always apply the same level of analysis. Second, AI can monitor and combine multi-modal data (such as thermal, infrared, night vision cameras, or others) to improve detection robustness. Third, the output of AI algorithms can be catalogued for future reference and analysis to assist in detecting systematic intrusion issues. Fourth, AI algorithms can classify and locate targets in a monitored video feed for rapid triage, bringing dangerous issues rapidly to an airman’s attention. Analytical AI (AAI) is a small business that specializes in AI, developing novel AI approaches designed to integrate with customer preferred software, and run rapidly on hardware appropriate to the application. AAIs proprietary algorithms can be readily tailored to address this perimeter security need. Technology development under this effort contributes to mission need fulfillment in the area of sensors and AI. AAI will use Ellsworth AFB as a use case for technology that will be useful not only for other military installations and AFBs (such as Tyndall AFB), but also commercially in the instance of identifying wildlife on commercial airfields, on game cameras, and perimeter security for identifying persons intruding into secure areas, persons carrying visible weapons, unattended baggage, and many other applications. The specific mission impact of this project on the Department of the Air Force (DAF) and Department of Defense (DoD) will include safer AFBs and reduced base downtime. The solution focuses on delivering correct information quickly to allow airman to mount an appropriate response. |
| W56KGU-23-C-0008 | Ultra-Broadband and High Average Power Directional IR Countermeasures | $1,148,809 | Applied Energetics, Inc. | STTR | Phase II | A21C-T018 | 05/15/2023 | 05/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | High intensity light sources can be effectively used for Infrared Countermeasures (IRCM) against Electrooptic (EO) based systems. The operational requirements for an IRCM optical source depend upon the desired effects along with engagement parameters such as range, atmospheric conditions, engagement geometry, target characteristics, and IRCM platform constraints. Of interest, are systems that can "dazzle” or damage EO sensors with ultrashort laser pulses with spectral content that spans the mid-infrared (MWIR) or long-wave infrared (LWIR) spectral regions, because it is difficult to protect sensors from this type of countermeasures with passive filters or active optical limiters. The objectives of the proposed Phase II effort is to use results of the Phase I numerical simulations and IRCM-system considerations to build a prototype laser to deliver ultra-broadband IR laser pulses to EO sensors and prepare for Phase III activities. |
| N68335-23-C-0646 | Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) in Complex Underwater Environments | $139,369 | Applied Research In Acoustics LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-035 | 08/07/2023 | 02/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | To address the challenges automatic target recognition (ATR) algorithms face when operating in complex environments and meet the Navy need to perform mine countermeasures (MCM) operations against known and novel targets in complex and often novel littoral environments ARiA will develop and demonstrate the feasibility of Domain-Adaptive Multiple-Sensor Online Learning (DAMSOL). The Phase I effort will (1) develop a concept to facilitate target identification in complex underwater environments using acoustic, optical, and magnetic sensors, (2) demonstrate that the concept meets performance requirements, (3) establish feasibility through testing and analytical modeling and (4) develop a Phase II plan for DAMSOL including an initial design specification and capabilities description to guide development of the prototype solution. |
| FA8730-23-P-B004 | Sensor Optimization Toolkit | $1,217,200 | Applied Intuition, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 02/01/2023 | 07/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Department of the Air Force (DAF) requires production-scale digital engineering software tools that enable efficient virtual design, configuration, and test of sensor arrays on its aerial systems. As the Air Force (AF) determines its hardest target de |
| N68335-23-C-0534 | Compact, High-Performance Metamaterial Acoustic filter with Monolithic Integrated Signal Processor | $139,526 | Applied Research In Acoustics LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-012 | 07/13/2023 | 01/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | To realize this transformative opportunity and address the operational challenges of airborne antisubmarine warfare (ASW), ARiA will develop and demonstrate the Metamaterial Signal Processor (MSP). The Phase I effort will (1) develop a detailed concept design and design procedure for an acoustic metamaterial passive signal processing layer that extracts underwater target signatures from acoustic echo signals, (2) demonstrate that the design shows =10X improvement in the SNR and = 1000X reduction in the amount of post-reception and post-detection information requiring A/D D/A conversions, digital processing, and sensor-to-aerial platform transmission, (3) establish feasibility through modeling and simulation to demonstrate the metamaterial’s performance and (4) develop a Phase II plan for MSP including a prototype manufacturing plan to guide development of the prototype solution. |
| HDTRA123P0017 | Generative Modeling of Multispectral Satellite Imagery | $167,462 | Applied Research In Acoustics LLC | STTR | Phase I | DTRA22D-001 | 04/11/2023 | 11/11/2023 | Department of Defense | Defense Threat Reduction Agency | To address the challenge DTRA faces in identifying rare objects of interest to defeat improvised threat networks using multispectral imagery, small business ARiA and research institution Michigan Technological University (MTU) will develop and demonstrate the feasibility of the Generative Augmentation Process (GAP). The Phase I effort will (1) conduct a proof-of-concept study for GAP by developing and characterizing with quantitative metrics the performance of processes and algorithms to perform generative modeling of multispectral imagery across IR bands; (2) demonstrate that GAP can feasibly meet DTRA needs for the mission of defeating improvised threat networks and; (3) establish through Phase II planning that GAP can be developed into a useful product for DTRA and DoD. The Phase II development plan will address the reduction of technical risk based on assessment of the maturity of metrics and measures developed in Phase I and will provide guidance for risk-reducing activities conducted during Phase II. |
| H92405239P007 | Stand/Off Precision Guided Weapon Program Cruise Missile Contested Environment | $2,674,089 | Applied Systems Engineering Incorporated | SBIR | Phase II | SOCOM213-003 | 03/02/2023 | 05/06/2024 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | Current military navigation systems are heavily reliant on Global Positioning System (GPS) signals. Advances in adversaries jamming techniques can compromise GPS capabilities and has placed our military forces at risk. Thus, there is a need to maintain mid/course navigation and precision terminal guidance in a GPS Contested Environment. The focus of this problem is on the Stand Off Precision Guided Munitions (SOPGM) in a GPS contested environment, such as AGM/176 Griffin and GBU/69/B Small Glide Munition (SGM). The objective of the Phase II effort is to develop and demonstrate mid/course navigation and precision terminal guidance in a GPS contested environment using Captive Carry Contractor provided SOPGM prototypes. The prototype mid/course navigation system uses GPS and other non/GPS navigation aiding sources, and the terminal guidance system is a multi/mode seeker. A captive carry flight demonstration will be conducted in a contested environment to ensure the prototype meets the requirements as specified in the Statement of Objectives (SOO). Applied Systems Engineering Inc (ASEI) will leverage the Advanced Tactical Navigator (ATACNAV), developed and produced by ASEI. ATACNAV is a resilient navigation system that enables mission operation in denied or degraded GPS environments. It produces a pseudo/GPS signal to enable continued operation of on/board GPS/based system elements with an architecture that enables mission/specific aiding sources. ASEI specializes in navigation solutions and missiles and has experience with the SOPGM Common Launch Tube (CLT) and the Battle Management Systems (BMS). ASEI’s proposed solution uses the Mission Computer and Autopilot (MCAP), a navigation and guidance system for low SWAP applications. The system includes a modular architecture that is adaptable to existing and future SOPGM munitions and can host various navigation receivers. This effort will modify the MCAP to include VBN capability. Using Scientific Systems Company Inc.’s (SSCI) ImageNav™ software, a non/GPS precision navigation software that uses inertial navigation system information to match onboard camera imagery, against stored geo/registered digital terrain elevation data to determine the precise location of a missile in flight. The modified MCAP or Guidance Electronic Unit (GEU) prototype integration into the SOPGM munition will be similar for Dynetics’ Small Glide Munition (SGM) and Raytheon Technologies’ Griffin missile. The GEU prototype, which is form fit and function compatible with SGM or Griffin, will replace the existing GEU and GPS/INS subsystem. In addition, a downward looking thermal camera will be integrated into the missile’s airframe. The aircraft integration of the prototype for Captive Carry Flight demonstrations, will be mounted in a way that there is no interference with the satellite communication to the upward looking antennas and the downward facing sensor has a clear line of site to the ground. |
| W912CG23C0006 | On-Site Destruction of PFAS-Impacted Liquids | $1,490,417 | Aquagga, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AF211-CSO1 | 12/21/2022 | 01/22/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used extensively for DoD firefighting applications due to their thermochemical stability and unique properties. PFAS are recalcitrant environmental pollutants and bioaccumulative toxins, presenting DoD installations with significant environmental compliance and remediation challenges. The most significant PFAS issues are a direct result of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) discharge for fire training activities. The US Air Force began using AFFF in 1970, with an estimated 200+ installations in the U.S. suspected to have AFFF releases. This has resulted in 190+ Remedial Investigations (RIs) and >$800M in total expenditures to-date on PFAS-related actions. DoD-wide costs related to PFAS response are estimated at >$2B for FY 2021 with increasing future costs. Aquagga’s continuous flow hydrothermal alkaline treatment (HALT) systems are proven to destroy PFAS safely and effectively in a variety of liquid matrices. In this Phase II project, a mobile HALT system will be deployed at two Air Force Bases for demonstrations of on-site treatment and disposal of PFAS-impacted liquids. Performance metrics will be quantified, including destruction, energy use, throughput, and cost. The proposed efforts seek to demonstrate: (i) high PFAS destruction efficacy on two USAF problem sets representative of a broader nationwide challenge, (ii) the ability to meet emerging regulations for PFAS treatment and discharge, (iii) the HALT technology can be easily mobilized to DoD installations for on-site treatment of PFAS-rich wastes, and (iv) quantification of system scale-up and operational costs. |
| FA8649-23-P-0370 | Real-time PFAS Sensing for Enhanced Site Remediation | $75,000 | Aquagga, Inc. | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/07/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Poly- and per-fluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS), a group of chemicals known to cause detrimental environmental and health effects, have been linked to the use of AFFF at Air Force Bases across the US. To ensure appropriate remediation and prevent further exposure, hundreds to thousands of samples must be sent for analysis to an accredited laboratory. This costs $200 - 500/sample with wait times up to a month for results. This results in large lag times before site managers can make decisions on how to handle a potentially contaminated site. The development of a cost-effective, real-time, networkable PFAS sensor would give site managers the ability to screen samples immediately and act, reducing costs and exposure to the surrounding environments. This technology could be paired with remediation efforts since there is no current technology for on-site evaluation of remediation efficiency or effectiveness. This work proposes pairing sensing and remediation technologies. Molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) based electrochemical sensor for cost-effective, real-time, and networkable PFAS sensing will be investigated as a relevant technology for PFAS remediation projects as US Air Force installations. MIPs are designed with a specific target molecule in mind, in this case PFOS. During synthesis, the MIP creates spaces selective towards the chemical properties of the chosen molecule. Once the MIP if formed, the imprint can be removed creating holes in the MIP. These holes are filled when the MIP contacts the target molecule during analysis. As the holes fill, access to the electrode surface is blocked, impeding the ability to measure current. The reduction in current is logarithmically related to concentration of the target molecule in solution. So far, we have demonstrated reproducible sensing of PFOS down to single ppt. Expansion to include PFOA is in our immediate future, but nearly all polyfluorinated alkyl acids (PFAA) should be imprintable for sensing. Multiple screen-printed electrodes can be multiplexed to provide detection of several PFAS at once. |
| FA8649-23-P-1266 | Molecularly Imprinted Polymers for a Real-Time PFAS Sensor | $1,249,993 | Aquagga, Inc. | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 09/19/2023 | 06/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been used extensively for DoD firefighting applications due to their thermochemical stability and unique properties. PFAS are long-lived in the environment and coming under increased regulatory scrutiny due |
| FA8649-23-P-0713 | Arena Strive: A Data-Driven Approach to Prevent Burnout, Manage Stress, and Improve Regeneration in Air Force Medical Teams | $74,412 | [ Arena Labs, Inc.] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Medical provider burnout is a strain on provider and nurse retention and significantly increases the likelihood of medical mistakes. 78% of doctors who reported medical errors had symptoms of burnout. Currently, 35% of AF Physician Specialties face a shor |
| N68335-23-C-0136 | KMI Aware Secure Data Module for Leave-Behind Applications | $139,958 | [www.arkhamtechnology.com Arkham Technology Limited] | SBIR | Phase I | N222-124 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Small un-crewed Navy platforms, such as Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), Unmanned Undersea Vehicles (UUVs) and Unmanned Airborne Vehicles (UAVs), have extreme Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) constraints. The encryptors they use to protect their Data-at-Rest (D@R) and Data-in-Transit (DiT) must shrink to meet upcoming needs, however, many of the existing End Cryptographic Units (ECUs) certified by the National Security Agency (NSA) are too large and powerful for future platforms. In addition, in order to be certified by NSA, all new cryptographic designs must meet the Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) new CryptoMod2 requirements, with which few, if any, existing cryptographic components currently comply. Our solution for the Navy addresses these issues with a “solve once and scale” mindset. Arkham Technology has the credentials and specialized environment to develop and certify a new high-assurance cryptographic device for the Navy. In addition, we have TRL-9 cryptologic Intellectual Property (IP) products that can be reused in the design to reduce risk. Furthermore, we have designed innovative CryptoMod2 technologies under previous SBIR Phase II efforts. We will leverage these capabilities to provide the Navy a small ECU device to secure the sensitive data on unattended devices. Our solution supports both network-based D@R and DiT in applications with limited bandwidth or intermittent connectivity. We support loading NSA keys manually, however, we also provide automated KMI-aware key and certificate management without operator intervention over very limited bandwidth and intermittent connectivity. In addition, our solution turns the Navy’s sensors into Internet of Battlefield Things (IoBT) with an encrypted and authenticated interface to the Navy’s IL-6 classified cloud computing infrastructure, allowing tighter integration between the Navy’s sensor data and Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) analytics for real-time expert decision-making. |
| FA8649-23-P-0127 | Improving Care and Operational Readiness with Additively Manufactured Microfibrous Implants for Ligament and Tendon Regeneration | $75,000 | Asante Bio LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Background: This research will advance the development of a revolutionary additive biomanufacturing approach to rapidly producing medical material for USAF end users and dual-use civilian medicine. Multiaxial robotic filament winding machines have produced many US Air Force products, such as rocket fairings and nose cones, helicopter blades, and other common materials (e.g., carbon fiber bike frames). Filament winding produces tight-tolerance parts with superior mechanical properties beyond conventional tissue engineering fiber production methods (i.e., electrospinning, etc.). Yet filament winding is a technology that has not yet been adapted to biomedical applications. Our group has succeeded in producing and manipulating 5-150 micron fibers that can be additively manufactured using a custom 4-axis filament winding, called Three Dimensional Microfilament Fabrication, or 3DMF, to produce medical implants that are particularly well-suited to musculoskeletal tissue repair and regeneration. We have engineered a novel additive manufacturing platform (3DMF) to produce highly aligned polymeric implants to share the load of the repair and promote biological integration using advanced polymers based on nanocellulose for remarkable biocompatibility, stability, and strength, far exceeding other biomaterials, such as collagen and polylactides, both of which are weak and highly immunogenic in comparison. Our 3DMF manufacturing is revolutionary for medical device production and produces implants to significantly improve the standard of care while adding minimal time, complexity, and cost to the case, yet targeting dramatically improved outcomes by our biomechanical and biomaterial mechanisms. Military Relevance Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are common in the USAF from field injuries, off-duty sporting, weightlifting, and other recreational activities, accounting for nearly 15% of all debilitating injuries. Occurring in over 3,000 warfighters annually, ACL tears are extremely debilitating, expensive to treat, and have a long recovery time. More than half of service members with ACL injury have their activity limited or are unable to return to duty following ACL surgery. Persistent pain and stiffness of the knee with a 20% failure of the ACL within 2 years are reported in patients. |
| FA8649-23-P-0266 | Keycloak Authentication for Enhanced Cybersecurity & Functionality | $74,998 | Ascend Integrated Technology Solutions, INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | KeyCloak has become a widely used tool across the USAF/USSF as a user authentication and SSO tool. However, the tool lacks critical functionality for DoD users – namely reliable CAC authentication, location based authentication requirements, and stronger user tracking. |
| FA8649-23-P-0608 | BYOD Data Security | $75,000 | Atakama Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Atakama’s quantum-resilient encryption solution utilizes a unique distributed key management system that facilitates encryption and decryption events. Traditional approaches to key management are significantly limited by how keys are stored and managed. T |
| FA8649-23-P-0912 | AI Enhanced, Modular Cyber/Zero-Trust Capabilities for Platforms | $74,998 | Ascend Integrated Technology Solutions, INC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The DoD is undergoing a rapid expansion of technical capabilities, typically provided through platforms such as DI2E, Platform One, TrustStack, SOCOM G4, and Army ECMA CReATE. Leveraging scope-boxed AI and anonymized data from our existing DoD platform, |
| FA8649-23-P-0833 | Enhanced TAK Hosting, Development, & Interoperability for the Warfighter | $74,998 | Ascend Integrated Technology Solutions, INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/01/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Ascend proposes to deploy a server-based variant of TAK on a secure hosted platform, including integrations with critical applications such as MatterMost. Systems architecture should prioritize speed, stability, and interoperability. A complement of dev t |
| FA8649-23-P-0434 | Longitudinal Toxicity Monitoring and Operational Readiness Metrics for High Intensity Small Unit Tactics | $1,249,521 | Ascent Integrated Tech, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/17/2023 | 08/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This AFWERX Direct to Phase II project will fund the development, test, and refinement of Ascent’s current platform prototypes, and the creation of a responder readiness metric and longitudinal exposure log system. During the project, we will focus on fiv |
| FA8649-23-P-0045 | Automated Space Weather Anomaly Detection & Countermeasure Response | $1,249,892 | Atlantis Industries, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 10/20/2022 | 07/19/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Per USSPACECOM, Space Domain Awareness (SDA) is the current #1 mission requirement and offers a challenge that we aim to help address through this D2P2 effort – “Identify, Characterize, Maintain Custody, and Assess Operational Disposition of all Man-made Objects and Natural Phenomena”. Atlantis Industries, Inc. – The Space Weather Company TM – was founded in 2020 by experienced, battle tested Aerospace technologists and entrepreneurs to meet one part of this challenge. In our internal R&D work over the past 18 months, Atlantis has identified an opportunity for rapid ingestion of Space Weather anomalies for faster countermeasures development to protect on-orbit commercial, civil and DoD satellites from the hazards of natural phenomena or space weather Single Event Effects (SEE). An upset will impact each constellation, satellite, payload and component differently; the effects vary depending on the space weather event, spacecraft and payload design, mission and orbital parameters. Atlantis has patent pending AI/ML technology to rapidly integrate space weather anomalies with design specifications and mission parameters to generate probabilistic SEE models and countermeasures for protecting on-orbit assets. The current state of countermeasure engineering for mission-specific anomaly evaluation and response uses generalized space weather nowcasting with analyst-in-loop threat and vulnerability analysis. Fault isolation and root cause analysis is typically reactive and can take weeks to months. In this effort, Atlantis aims to perform R/R&D to demonstrate the feasibility of our Anomaly Detection and Response System (ADRS) technology (TRL 3/4) to address the bottleneck using our Phalanx AI (TRL 6) algorithms to calculate SEE risk exposure for a given NOAA space weather notice, it’s impact on a specific on-orbit satellite mission payload and generate recommended evasive countermeasures or maneuvers. We plan to measure the ADRS efficacy in speed of anomaly processing, root cause analysis, payload/mission impact analysis and countermeasure generation for overall Mean Time to Respond (MTTR) compared with current practices. |
| FA8649-23-P-0047 | Lightest Weight Micrometeoroid and Orbital Debris (MMOD) Shielding this Side of Mars | $1,249,165 | Atomic-6, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 10/27/2022 | 07/29/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The United States is currently un-prepared to win a war in space. Atomic-6 was founded to solve a problem that the composites industry has been trying to overcome for the past half century. That problem is manufacturing high performance at high volumes with more economical efficiency. Or simply put, how can the composite manufacturing process offer aerospace level performances at automotive level margins and production volume. Atomic-6 has not only proven the possibility of this but has repeatedly lab tested and shown the technology works at scale, offering performance levels previously thought impossible while demonstrating 120 times faster production capability in certain applications. Atomic-6 produces composites with material properties that no other composite manufacturer has matched. We have presented to composite engineers at almost every major defense prime in the United States. They all have similar responses. First, they can't believe it and second, they want to know how Atomic-6 can start R&D projects with them. The highest fiber volumes, 98% tensile modulus theoretical limit achieved (previously thought impossible), uniform distribution of the fiber and matrix, promoting polymer chain alignment, and minimizing porosity throughout the structure. This allows for minimal standard deviations across destructive/non-destructive testing that is in the 0.1-0.2% range. Phenomenal is the typical adjective we hear. Atomic-6 was the only U.S. company awarded Top 20 Global Finalists for the 2022 JEC World Composites Startup Booster Competition. Atomic-6 is backed by IronGate, an Aerospace & Defense Venture Capital Firm. One of 20 out of 3,000 annually chosen to be Accelerated by Starburst, the world's 1st global accelerator for Aerospace & Defense. Atomic-6 was voted #1 most innovative company in Georgia for 2022 by the Technology Association of Georgia, a 30,000 member community. |
| SP4701-23-P-0061 | Novel Mold Technology for Scaled Manufacturing of High Performance Composite Hypersonic Thermal Protection Systems | $98,334 | Atomic-6, Inc. | STTR | Phase I | DLA23A-003 | 08/21/2023 | 02/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | The Defense Department is working hard on developing both hypersonic offensive and defensive capabilities. But in the immediate future, one of the most important areas to be developed is increasing the capacity at which such systems can be produced, said Gillian Bussey, director of the Joint Hypersonics Transition Office. Atomic-6 was founded to solve a problem that the composites industry has been trying to overcome for the past half century. That problem is manufacturing high performance at high volume with more economical efficiency. Or simply put, how can the composite manufacturing process offer aerospace level performances at automotive production volume. Atomic-6’s proprietary mold technology has not only proven the possibility of this, but we also have repeatedly lab tested low to moderate temperature composites and shown our technology works at scale, offering performance levels previously thought impossible while demonstrating 120 times faster production capability in certain applications. We have presented to composite engineers at almost every major defense prime in the US. They all have similar responses. First, they can't believe it and second, they want to know how Atomic-6 can start R&D projects with them. Our process offers high fiber content, minimal void, uniform distribution of the fiber and matrix, promoting polymer chain alignment, and minimizing porosity throughout the structure. This ultimately allows for standard deviations averaging 0.1-0.2%, allowing for tighter tolerances and less mass. Phenomenal is the typical adjective we hear. Atomic-6 was the only U.S. company awarded Top 20 Global Finalists for the 2022 JEC World Composites Startup Booster Competition. Atomic-6 is backed by IronGate, an Aerospace & Defense Venture Capital Firm. One of 20 out of 3,000 annually chosen to be Accelerated by Starburst, the world's 1st global accelerator for Aerospace & Defense. In the area of hypersonic thermal protection systems, Atomic-6 plans to apply its proprietary mold technology to carbon-carbon materials. Atomic-6 CTO, Peter Shpik, has extensive experience with these materials, having previously held the position of Senior Research Engineer for Refractory Composites R&D Advanced Technology at Rohr/Collins Aerospace. He helped develop ceramic matrix composites for the Rockwell X-30 with a target speed of Mach 20. This was an advanced technology demonstrator project for the National Aero-Space Plane (NASP), part of a United States project to create a single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO) spacecraft and passenger spaceliner. Thus it is evident that Atomic-6 has one of the few people in the country who know how to properly manufacture and make improvements to hypersonic thermal protection systems. Combining Mr. Shpik’s experience with the proprietary mold technology developed by Atomic-6 will enable consistent and scaled production of composite hypersonic parts. |
| FA2394-23-C-B019 | Scaled Production and Increased Performance of Hypersonic Thermal Protection Systems - faster than a speeding bullet! | $1,248,755 | Atomic-6, Inc. | STTR | Phase II | AF21A-TCSO2 | 06/26/2023 | 10/16/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Defense Department is working hard on developing both hypersonic offensive and defensive capabilities. But in the immediate future, one of the most important areas to be developed is increasing the capacity at which such systems can be produced, said |
| FA9422-23-C-0009 | Valve-Regulated Lead Acid Emergency Batteries for Minuteman III ICBM Facilities | $1,304,112 | B S T Systems, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AF231-D006 | 06/05/2023 | 06/05/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Under this FOA (AF231-D0006), the Air Force seeks an improved, safe Minuteman III emergency batteries (EB) that can replace the existing batteries and can be seamlessly integrated at the ICBM facilities with the existing charger and protocols, i.e., meet |
| FA9422-23-C-0005 | REMOTELY ACTIVATED SILVER ZINC MISSILE GUIDANCE SET BATTERY | $1,789,092 | B S T Systems, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AF231-D005 | 06/05/2023 | 06/05/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Department of Air Force seeks an improved, more reliable remotely activated (RA) Missile Guidance Set (MGS) battery (SE-437) for Minuteman III Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles. The technical challenges of reserve, remotely activated batteries are t |
| FA8750-23-C-0130 | STAR-OPS Immersive Space Operations Center | $1,249,965 | BADVR INC | SBIR | Phase II | SF224-D004 | 03/17/2023 | 03/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed effort will focus on the development and testing of mixed reality space domain visualizations that plug into AROC, BadVR's existing immersive multi-user commercial software platform. Based on representative scenarios, the adaptations will ena |
| FA8649-23-P-0116 | Supercharger for Small Engines | $74,988 | BAKER ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | SBIR Abstract X224-OCSO1 FX224-OCSO1-1103 – Supercharger for Small Engines Current Word Count: 200 Alternate fuel adoption away from gasoline in small internal combustion engines for combat operations, especially small Unmanned Aerial Systems, has been difficult due to the reduction in engine specific power output (power/volume & power/weight) when operating on alternate fuels. Power output is reduced when operating on heavy-fuels (DF-2, JP-5, JP-8/F24) because a minimum of 30% excess air must be present to maintain good engine operation, while gaseous hydrogen displaces up to 30% of air volume, reducing the amount of combustible air drawn into the engine. Both situations result in an ~15% reduction in power output when compared to a gasoline engine. To address this issue in larger engines, a power adder (turbocharger or supercharger) is added to increase the density of the incoming fresh air, increasing engine power output. Like many other engine components, power adders to not scale smaller very effectively, resulting in engine systems that are larger and heavier than simply going to a larger displacement engine. Baker Engineering seeks to prove through careful design and analysis that commercially available vapor-refrigeration compressor technology is feasible as a lightweight, efficient and economical supercharger. Having already demonstrated the initial concept, Baker Engineering will update the design, build, and test the supercharger under the Phase I program. Following a successful demonstration in the Phase I program, the technology will be applied and tested on a small, single cylinder heavy-fuel engine during the Phase II program. |
| SP4701-23-C-0054 | A Continuous and Automated Manufacturing Breakthrough, Securing a Robust Domestic Supply Chain of Affordable High Temperature Reinforcement for Hypersonic Thermal Protection System Applications | $500,000 | BALLY RIBBON MILLS | SBIR | Phase II | DLA231-D07 | 08/21/2023 | 08/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | The loom developed by the BRM team is the most advanced and versatile loom ever built by BRM. The servo control of all movements in the weaving operation, combined with BRM’s experience of weaving novel structures is a true game changer, advancing BRM’s ability to supply woven preforms which were unobtainable until now. Now that the loom is built and a proof of concept has been woven on the loom (TRL 4), BRM would like to team up with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) on a direct to Phase II effort, to support a materials and process (M&P) engineering effort to transition the innovative process into a production capability to support the Department of Defense (DoD) and provide materials to develop future U.S. defense modernization priorities. |
| SP4701-23-P-0027 | Characterize Automated Fine Unit Cell Preforms for Future Nose Tip TPS | $99,928 | BALLY RIBBON MILLS | STTR | Phase I | DLA23A-003 | 07/06/2023 | 12/31/2023 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | BRM will weave and supply material to Sandia National Laboratory for characterization. Sandia National Laboratory has experience with nose tip applications, and they are currently working to redesign sounding rocket leading edges. BRM and Sandia National Laboratory shall characterize the continuously woven preforms for the sounding rocket leading edge, but this work will also feed into the characterization for potential nose tip applications. |
| FA2394-23-C-B022 | Scalable MXene Synthesis for Aerospace Applications | $1,249,945 | BALLYDEL TECHNOLOGIES INC. | STTR | Phase II | AF21A-TCSO2 | 07/21/2023 | 10/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | During the Phase II effort, Ballydel Technologies will develop scalable and safe processes for the manufacture of MAX phase and MXene powders in 1Kg batch sizes. Additionally, our team will implement commercial-scale mixing procedures for the production |
| FA8649-23-P-1107 | Digital Transformation Kit | $1,249,601 | BAM TECHNOLOGIES LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 01/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force's Human Resource Management (HRM) office's manage 300,000+ Air Force and Space Force Total Force personnel. These organizations are currently managing the force with legacy Human Resource Management (HRM) IT Service Management (ITSM) and Cus |
| FA8649-23-P-0500 | HADES | $1,249,943 | BANC 3, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/13/2023 | 11/13/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Special Operations Forces (SOF) across the US military are tasked with planning and executing no-fail missions within the United States and abroad. To train for these missions, SOF requires highly specialized and mission-contextualized training facilities and equipment where they can conduct crawl-, walk-, run-repetitions to hone their tradecraft before mission execution. For example, the skills necessary to covertly conduct reconnaissance and characterization of physical, analog, and digital security systems of a foreign installation, gain undetected entry into that installation, and then complete necessary steps to recover critical assets secured in that installation requires a pinnacle level of planning and rehearsal that is truly SOF-peculiar. Support for this type of hyperspecialized training facility, which aims to provide the most ecologically valid planning and rehearsal capabilities possible, requires: (i) dedicated tradecraft subject-matter experts; (ii) the ability to rapidly recreate all aspects of mission-critical environments (e.g., replicate the anticipated security systems that will need to be defeated); (iii) the ability to induce stress and cognitive workload akin to what trainees will experience on target; and (iv) the ability to quickly reconfigure the overall facility and minute details of a training scenario to support the effective training repetitions that yield the necessary SOF Operator readiness. There are fundamental limitations of the infrastructure and solutions that currently support this hyperspecialized training, including (i) an inability to rapidly reconfigure macro- and micro-elements of training facilities to achieve the variance in scenario repetitions needed to achieve the highest possible mission readiness; (ii) significant costs and lead times associated with acquiring specialized equipment and regionally appropriate assets needed to achieve ecological validity in training environment fidelity; (iii) an inability to create highly dynamic and adaptive training scenarios tailored to an individual's skills and performance on a per scenario basis; and (iv) an inability to repeatably stimulate multiple operator sensory channels with enough variance across scenario repetitions to effectively induce the stress that operators experience on target. Congress just passed the CHIPS act which includes instructions for the NSF to invest in XR technology because they recognize the power and cost savings of virtual training. Until now, most XR training systems work better in the lab than they do in the field in the hands of a warfighter, but HADES will change that by combining cutting edge off-the-shelf components such as new head and body tracking systems used in the motion picture industry with our military and commercial XR headset design expertise. And by designing an open platform, we leave HADES open to future expansion with body tracking, tool and weapon tracking, and on-the-fly reconfigurable training sessions. |
| FA8649-23-P-0535 | Network Command, Control, and Communication | $1,214,413 | BARN OWL TECH, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/09/2023 | 11/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | With nearly 800 bases and 18,000-plus square miles of territory, the Department of Defense (DoD) expends millions of hours protecting our nation’s crucial assets. Security Forces face a non-stop personnel burden of monitoring installations, forward operat |
| FA9401-23-C-0008 | Enhanced, Rapidly deployable, AI-powered surveillance for Security Forces - Sequential Phase II | $1,799,344 | BARN OWL TECH, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | J201-CSO1 | 04/20/2023 | 01/26/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | We propose to adapt the EdgeCam remote AI camera system to facilitate enhanced AI-powered security and surveillance over 4G/5G networks. Specifically, we have identified several proposed adaptations, including 1) enhancing area awareness with an improved |
| N68335-23-C-0650 | Human Automation Teaming for Efficient Knowledge Extraction and Test Generation | $139,952 | BARRON ASSOCIATES, INC. | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T014 | 08/09/2023 | 02/06/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Effective tools for evaluating the proficiency of warfighters at employing complex systems in an operational setting are essential to ensure operational capability within the Navy and other branches of the DoD. Generating exams with answer keys is a time-consuming process, made more difficult by the complexity of both the systems and the operational employment of those systems. The burden is further increased when systems are updated frequently. The proposed software tool will provide a general-purpose capability to efficiently generate test material from technical documents that describe the capabilities of a complex system and the operational employment of that system. It will enable a person with domain knowledge related to a particular system (but no AI expertise) to effectively team with AI to complete the test generation task vastly more efficiently than would be possible manually, while achieving accuracy and reliability that would be impossible in a fully autonomous system. The tool will support both updates of existing test questions and answers based on updated source documents, and generation of novel questions specifically targeted at assessing knowledge of new and updated system features and operational procedures. |
| W51701-23-C-0137 | Graph-based Collaborative Autonomy for Intelligent Agents | $1,699,970 | BARRON ASSOCIATES, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A214-045 | 07/19/2023 | 02/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Barron Associates, Inc. has teamed with the Virginia Tech Sanghani Center for Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics (VT) and BlackSwift Technologies (BST) to develop the Advanced Graph-enabled Network Technology for Collaborative Autonomous Agents (AGENTCA) solution for distributed collaborative control of heterogeneous swarms of UAS, UGV, USV, and UUV agents. Previous approaches to multi-vehicle swarming control typically rely on centralized algorithmic formulations, which can deliver optimal control performance but scale poorly when used with large numbers of agents. Poor scalability manifests in excessive computational and communication throughput requirements that are not supportable in practical applications. In contrast, AGENTCA offers an efficient decentralized approach designed specifically for scalability to swarms of hundreds or more agents. In AGENTCA, each agent computes its own control solution using an efficient Graph Neural Network (GNN) algorithm that can be run on modest computational hardware and provides near-optimal control performance. The formulation makes it possible to operate very large, autonomous swarms of small UxV with limited SWAP capabilities in contested areas with limited network connectivity. In AGENTCA, a GNN is trained off-line to implement a desired control algorithm, such as formation flight, intruder pursuit, or distributed area coverage. The resulting GNN is then copied to each agent, who then uses the GNN to compute their own control solution based on what they know about other agents in the swarm. AGENTCA offers three primary innovations: (1) agents require only local information about the locations of their neighbors, rather than global information about the entire swarm; (2) swarm composition and topology can change dynamically during a mission, allowing the swarm to smoothly adapt to the loss of individual agents or the addition of new ones; and (3) a modular training environment is included, which makes it straightforward to incorporate new swarm behaviors and to customize existing ones. This project builds on a highly successful Phase I effort, which demonstrated the ability to train GNN controllers that perform a variety of functions and highlighted key robustness properties of the approach. The Phase II effort will expand the available GNN training options, add new swarm behaviors, and explore a wider range of candidate operational scenarios. It will expand the GNN approach to incorporate heterogeneous mixtures of both UAV and UGV assets and conduct high-fidelity simulations involving hundreds of these agents in a single swarm. Finally, the effort will integrate the GNN solution onto commercially available UAV and UGV platforms, demonstrating the technology in a series of flight tests involving swarms of 15 to 20 agents in realistic outdoor environments. In parallel to this activity, the company will aggressively pursue a carefully crafted transition and commercialization plan. |
| FA8651-23-C-A019 | Intelligent Wind Estimation for CBRN Agent Tracking and Localization | $749,995 | BARRON ASSOCIATES, INC. | STTR | Phase II | AF21B-T003 | 04/19/2023 | 04/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Barron Associates (Barron) proposes to develop the Wind Detection and Source Seeking (WINDSS ) system in response to the U.S. Air Force STTR solicitation AF21B-T003 Restricted SWAP-C Air Direction Sensing to Enable Single Vehicle Chemical Reactive Trackin |
| N68335-23-C-0454 | Shipboard Intelligent Machinery Prognostic and Learning Environment (SIMPLE) | $139,685 | BARRON ASSOCIATES, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-028 | 07/25/2023 | 01/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Hull Mechanical & Electrical (HM&E) Machinery Control Systems (MCS) for U.S. Navy combatant craft are highly complex systems often with hundreds of actuators and thousands of sensors spread across dozens of shipboard subsystems. As described in SBIR topic N231-028, Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning (AI/ML) applied to HM&E MCS offers the potential for improving robustness and survivability while simultaneously reducing operator cognitive burden and reducing manning requirements. The research team proposes to develop the Shipboard Intelligent Machinery Prognostic and Learning Environment (SIMPLE) using a highly flexible foundational learning technology that is equally adept at leveraging known physics-based models when available and using a purely data-driven approach when physics-based models are not available. Barron Associates, Inc. (BAI) has implemented and refined a suite of machine learning tools dubbed AURA (Algorithms for Uncertainty Representation and Analysis). BAI’s AURA approach to machine learning is different from some other techniques and well-suited for the HM&E application due the ability to include prior physics-based models of any complexity (when available), explicitly include and quantify uncertainty, and optimize prediction accuracy with sparse training data while learning continually. In many cases, even simple physics-based models that capture basic dynamics will reduce the amount of initial training data and training time that will be required for SIMPLE. When physics-based models are not available, purely data-driven AURA will learn efficiently and still offer the primary benefits of the AURA methodology. The research team will leverage its existing MCS land-based test environment (LBTE) for the Phase I simulation demonstration and also to generate additional training data as needed. The LBTE includes a fully functional MCS interfaced to a dynamic signal-level Plant Model Simulation of HM&E Systems. The ability of the MCS to control and monitor the ship propulsion and electric plants is dependent on the accuracy of the dynamic response analysis and the fidelity with which plant behavior is implemented in the LBTE plant model. The comprehensive, complex, and accurate plant simulation model and the test platform built around it represent the collective efforts over the past decade to create an LBTE that facilitates successful shipboard integration. This LBTE includes the ability to easily and efficiently generate and log realistic additional training data for the SIMPLE effort proposed herein. The Phase I work plan is designed to unequivocally establish that the proposed SIMPLE technology will lay a foundation for a highly-automated HM&E that features continuous self-learning and excels, in particular, in the presence of failures and/or damage. Phase I will culminate in a LBTE simulation-based demonstration of multiple realistic scenarios that cover a range of normal and degraded conditions. |
| FA8649-23-P-0152 | INTEGRATED MASS-SCALE EMERGENCY COMMAND, CONTROL, AND COMMUNICATIONS APPLICATION FOR FORCE PROTECTION SCENARIOS | $69,282 | BASECONNECT, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed BaseConnect ALLARM™ is an integrated, mass-scale emergency command, control, and communications application for force protection scenarios. As a feature within the BaseConnect platform, it will provide installation commanders and first responders the ability to instantaneously communicate with endangered personnel via mobile or desktop interfaces, automatically establish a command and control communication channel with resident ability to share photos, videos, and files with the group, and visually depict the location of each communique on a geo-rectified map. Additional features will include AI-powered detection of weapons through video surveillance and IoT-enabled hardware ranging from alarm modules to cameras and locks. |
| FA8649-23-P-0471 | Immersive & Interactive Cyber-Physical System Utilizing AI/ML and VR to Train, Operate and Optimize Machine Vision Guided Robots | $1,249,848 | BCI Solutions, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/09/2023 | 08/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed innovation will enable DoD and its industrial supply base to automate a wide range of high variety, low volume manufacturing and maintenance activities. The system utilizes AI/ML and VR technologies to teach and operate robots using human tra |
| FA8649-23-P-0549 | Beacon AI - Pilot Enablement System for Critical Phases of Flight and Debrief | $1,249,988 | BEACON AI INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 04/17/2023 | 01/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Piloted aircraft will have improved safety and efficiency through the Pilot Enablement System from Beacon AI. With the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence, the custom edge compute platform in this research proposal can collect, enhance and process la |
| N68335-23-C-0306 | Laser Hardening of Submarine Optical Systems | $599,867 | BEAM ENGINEERING FOR ADVANCED MEASUREMENTS CO. | SBIR | Phase II | N211-030 | 06/07/2023 | 06/20/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The objective of the project is to explore opportunities provided by the fourth generation of optical components and materials for hardening submarine optical systems against high energy lasers and other sources of high power jamming or damaging radiation, including sunlight, and to develop and demonstrate prototype devices for different main types of optical radiation hazards: spectrally narrowband laser radiation, continuous wave or pulsed; and spectrally broadband radiation. The development will make use of such unique capabilities of the Fourth Generation (4G) Optics as optically asymmetric components and systems inherent to the technology, and the capability of optically switching those optical components between diffractive and non-diffractive states with low-voltage electrical fields as well as by the optical radiation itself. The development also will use the unique opportunities that 4G Optics provides for imaging systems. Since no light is lost in 4G optical components, and since they have high-efficiency in a broad band of wavelengths and angles, we will develop imaging systems for submarines overcoming fundamental aberrations of diffractive systems, and reducing size and weight of imaging devices in different spectral ranges. 4G Optics is most promising to provide effective solutions to the problem of laser hardening, particularly, for submarine optical systems, due to the opportunity of performing any optical function (lens, prism, beam shaping, etc.), even combinations of optical functions, with micrometer thin transparent material layers. Thus, laser hardening systems can complement optical systems of photonics masts and future HEL beam controllers without major modifications to the present opto-mechanical layouts within the masts. |
| FA8650-23-C-5008 | Liquid Crystalline Nonmechanical Beam Steering Devices for Air and Space Applications | $1,249,479 | BEAM ENGINEERING FOR ADVANCED MEASUREMENTS CO. | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D023 | 04/20/2023 | 07/20/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The objective of the proposal is developing modular geometrical phase (geo-phase) optical components and systems from the standpoint of high level integration and automation of involved fabrication processes. Low-cost and fast prototyping techniques would |
| 140D0423C0091 | Energy Web Employing Planar Optics | $1,499,289 | BEAM ENGINEERING FOR ADVANCED MEASUREMENTS CO. | STTR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-29 | 07/07/2023 | 07/13/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The Phase 2 work would allow us prototyping and delivering a beam steering system for energy web by optimizing the materials, the components, and the architecture of the relay nod. the objectives of the work are: 1. Developing cycloidal diffractive waveplates (CDWs), the planar geometrical phase analog of a prism, with enhanced optical properties with respect to efficiency and functionality that better meet multiple application requirements such as the need for steering bi-chromatic beams, controlling stray light, and minimizing wavefront errors; 2. Optimizing architectures of planar beam steering systems adapted to coherently as well as spectrally combined high energy laser beams; 3. Enhancing the steering system for line-of-sight jitter control of full aperture beams; 4. Maximizing efficiency and field of regard; 5. Developing material basis and improved fabrication processes for up to 8” aperture CDWs, including CDWs possessing optical power; 6. Fabricating and delivering a fully functional prototype system tested and characterized with low-power laser beams, and ready for high energy laser tests. While DARPA has taken over the challenge of using planar diffractive optics to enable critical application earlier (DARPA MOIRE, DARPA Extreme), this is the first time when the technology is adequate to meet challenging application requirements due, particularly, to the maturation of the fourth generation of optics. The Phase 1 of the project has allowed us to show the feasibility of dramatic SWaP reduction and enhancing the ultralight beam steering system with features such as polarization-independent wide angle steering, low-sensitivity to jitter typical to all-transmissive optics, automatic reduction of stray beams to low power density levels, refocusing the high energy laser between relays without compromising weight and size, and providing full aperture wavefront controls. The Phase 2 work will use low-profile off-the-shelf-actuators for prototype development. The development will lay the grounds for next generation energy web relay systems. |
| N68335-23-C-0177 | Hemispherical Adaptive Underwater Non-Acoustic Tracker (HUNT) | $599,971 | [ BEAMSEA ASSOCIATES LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | N211-051 | 02/22/2023 | 02/28/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Hemispherical Underwater Non-Acoustic Tracking LiDAR (HUNT-L) is a high fidelity, short range underwater tracking system that can detect and track in real-time, large, and small unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), divers, and surface vehicles. Under this Phase II technical effort, BeamSea Associates (BSA) proposes to continue development of a HUNT-L prototype and to validate it with accuracies within 10cm that are suitable for signature measurements. In the first year of the Phase II effort, BSA will conduct Preliminary and Critical Design Reviews to then proceed with the implementation of the HUNT-L hardware and software designs, thus resulting in the fabrication and assembly of a prototype unit in the second year. In collaboration with NSWCCD and other Navy stakeholders, BSA will initially test the prototype in a confined-water environment to carefully document the sensor performance and tracking algorithm fidelity. Following processing and analysis of the collected dataset, refinement of the HUNT-L demonstration prototype will follow in the third year, resulting in an improved tracking system for subsequent demonstrations with designated small or medium-sized Government Furnished Equipment and Information (GFE/GFI) UUV and/or ROV assets with a full underwater acoustic (or other) measurement array at a Navy test range. |
| FA8649-23-P-0595 | LPD & LPI Ultra-low SWaP-C Mesh Networking For Secure Communications In Near-peer Contested Environments | $74,080 | BEARTOOTH RADIO, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/01/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Mission success in contingency operations depends on communication and Beartooth Radio provides a solution when traditional comms are degraded; saving lives by reducing much-needed time battle-tracking friendlies and engaging the enemy when and where it |
| W911NF23P0021 | BeaverFit | $160,687 | BEAVERFIT NORTH AMERICA LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-005 | 05/02/2023 | 08/02/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Proposed Approach: BeaverFit seeks to satisfy the requirements of this proposal and subsequent SBIR phases through four main technical objectives (TO). Metrics of success will be applied to each TO to validate the effectiveness of the project and track progress toward accomplishment of the desired end state. Key measures of performance identified within the TO include cost, timelines, and throughput. Other items such as customer satisfaction scores will be utilized during certain phases of the project to create a robust feedback system ensuring end user requirements are met and/or exceeded. We will leverage our custom design/build methodology while using a multi-system approach to scoping the design. This multi-system approach offers modular options in order to ensure flexibility during the scoping portion. The final prototype concept will be selected based on end user feedback derived during the Phase I Period of Performance (PoP). (TO1) Reduction of overall project costs through the utilization of advanced material technologies Key Result/Metric of Success: On target budget of $6 million or less (TO2) Development of infrastructure via modular construction methodologies that increase economies of scale and reduce project lead times Key Result/Metric of Success: Project lead times less than 270 days with scalability to support 110 facilities across all brigades. (TO3) Cross Domain Integration of physical and non-physical performance modalities Key result/Metric of Success: The facility incorporates spaces and characteristics necessary to accommodate H2F teams and specialists to help Soldiers train, sleep, and eat more effectively while enhancing mental and spiritual health. (TO4) Optimized facility design (flow, throughput, output and utilization) via collaboration with performance industry subject matter experts Key Result/Metric of Success: Maximum throughput is achieved enabling individuals from the intended Brigades to access the SPRC a minimum of two to three times per week. Through this robust approach, BeaverFit intends to assist the Army in overcoming the challenges to design and development of the SPRC. Our proposed design enables the Army to execute the cultural shift necessary to optimize warfighter readiness and fully implement H2F per regulatory guidance and governing principles. |
| FA8649-23-P-0298 | Next Generation Healthy Habits for Guardians and Airmen | $74,947 | BETTERTIME CO | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Your crazy schedule is working on your blinking, heavy eyelids while you yawn again. And again. That quick carb-heavy bite you grabbed for lunch is no help while you struggle to concentrate on the expensive equipment in front of you. You’re irritable from the caffeine you hoped would help. The only thing you can think about is the last good night’s sleep you had. When was that anyway? You can’t remember. Over 71,000 injuries and 1,500 fatalities occur in the US yearly from poor sleep habits. “Military personnel shift workers are 36% more likely than the average American to not get the recommended daily sleep,” stated Maj. Danielle Tuttle, Deputy Director of Safety and Nuclear Surety at 20th Air Force. Yet we say nothing about our 329,614 Airmen and Guardians working with multi-billion-dollar space assets at a higher risk of errors in their day-to-day work. BetterYou, with proper research and development, has a commercial solution that can be adopted to help every military member. The BetterYou personal companion helps you find more time for your health and would directly impact personnel at the 20th Space Surveillance Squadron. Responsiveness is vital to their mission. With the BetterYou companion, your health and wellness goals are AI-tracked to log progress automatically (no manual entry needed!). You receive real-time, personalized nudges to ensure that your health habit goal is achieved. This ease of use has resulted in a user retention rate 3x the industry average. Users are making measurable strides in exercising, sleeping, building relationships, and other wellness goals. The result is a better-prepared and focused workforce with higher retention rates. BetterYou will execute a 3-month systematic and intensive feasibility study with the 20th SSS to determine feasibility and establish necessary adaptations for prototype development and Phase II effort. |
| 6SVL4-23-C-0005 | Solid State High Energy Density Batteries | $1,314,999 | BHAWIN LLC | SBIR | Phase II | SOCOM222-001 | 02/10/2023 | 02/28/2024 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | In Phase II project, Bhawin LLC aims to fabricate the current concept of solid-state Li-ion battery fabricating a single continuous phase for the anode, electrolyte, and cathode, and thus, eliminating the highly resistive interfaces between the electrolyte and electrodes found in straight solid-state Li-ion batteries. Advanced Li-ion battery technology will play a critical role in the understanding of Hybrid Electric Vehicles, Electric Vehicles, and the increasingly critical field of renewable energy. Current solid-state Li-ion batteries have much lower energy and power densities than liquid electrolyte batteries due to the use of three different materials for the anode, the cathode, and the electrolyte causing high interfacial resistance between the solid electrolyte and the solid electrodes. This project focuses on optimization of synthesis process (1) quasi-solid-state electrolytes (2) NMC811, LiFePO4 and (3) Li4Ti5O12/Graphene anode (4) Li6.4La3Ta0.6Zr1.4O12 and Li6.4La3Ga0.2Zr1.8O12 solid state electrolytes and electrochemical performance solid-state Li-ion batteries to achieve high energy density of >350Wh/kg with 50Ah electric charge. On a follow-on Phase-III project this technology will be commercialized by a leading lithium-ion battery manufacturer who is very much interested in this technology. |
| FA8649-23-P-0577 | Mission Optimized Service Spacecraft | $1,699,214 | BIG METAL ADDITIVE LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 02/24/2023 | 05/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Many on-orbit missions are enabled by an ability to maneuver without regret. Propulsion is critically important to maneuver and therefore to service, debris removal and space logistics support missions. While there are many technology developments in work |
| FA8649-23-P-0204 | Unitized Monolithic Rotating Detonation Engine | $74,954 | BIG METAL ADDITIVE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | A Rotating Detonation Engine (RDE) generates thrust better than traditional turbines because there are no moving parts. It is more efficient and more powerful but only lab scale experiments have been done. Hypersonic vehicle propulsion and gas power generation applications must mature RDE design, performance, and manufacturing with rapid prototype and bench flow test development cycles; followed by prototypes for flight test and transition to a program of record. Big Metal Additive proposes to evaluate RDE CAD design to demonstrate feasibility analytically and virtually for production of unitized monolithic RDE prototypes using the most advanced hybrid metal additive manufacturing capability in the world. |
| FA8649-23-P-0849 | 3D Interactive Instructions for M4 Assembly, Maintenance, and Operation | $74,888 | BILT INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/16/2023 | 08/16/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force has complicated equipment and complex jobs, and experienced Airmen have utilized extensive on the job training to learn how to work this equipment and perform their jobs over time. These complicated new machines, how the equipment is used, and evolving job responsibilities require updated instructions to be communicated to Airmen in order to increase job effectiveness and lower the learning curve of increasingly sophisticated equipment. Unfortunately, Airmen are often stuck with paper instruction manuals which don’t always do an adequate job of communicating how to use the equipment or perform a specific task. The solution is the BILT app. Used by commercial clients like The Home Depot, Weber, Lifetime, Solo Stove, and ASSA ABLOY, BILT Incorporated provides cloud hosted 3D interactive intelligent instructions to improve training and maintenance efficiency. BILT aims to help Airmen decrease training time by 30%, improve quality on maintenance and assembly tasks by improving firs time touch by 5%, and modernize training by reducing dependency on paper and 2D PDFs by 30%. BILT accomplishes this by eliminating cumbersome manuals and lengthy and expensive instructional videos and replacing them with 3D interactive instructions that make sense to today’s Airmen. BILT could enable Air Force maintainers where they’re most comfortable and competent--on a mobile device, where they have the capability to tap on a part, pinch to zoom in and out, and drag to rotate the 3D images 360º. BILT gathers data analytics on user performance. Insights from these metrics allow BILT instruction designers to continuously improve procedures in near-real time. BILT provides a portal for Program Managers and front-line leaders to evaluate training progress and competency with quantifiable data and feedback from maintainers. BILT is available worldwide, both on and off the grid. Hundreds of 3D instruction sets can be downloaded to a single device and accessed without Wi-Fi, saving in-flight space, weight, and fuel. BILT addresses the DoD’s green initiative and assists Air Force sustainability efforts by eliminating paper manuals. |
| FA8649-23-P-1020 | 3D Interactive Instructions for the Munitions Community | $1,137,133 | BILT INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/18/2023 | 07/22/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force has been experiencing record low mission-capable rates (percentage of aircraft that are ready to fly) for its aircraft. In 2018, mission-capable rates continued a multi-year plummet to below 70%. The low mission-capable rates persist despite |
| FA9422-23-C-0012 | Reserve, Remotely Activated Battery for Sage 1 Flight Control Unit for Minuteman III ICBM | $1,799,604 | BINERGY SCIENTIFIC, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF231-D009 | 06/05/2023 | 06/05/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Thermal batteries are single discharge reserve batteries that provide very long shelf life, minimal self-discharge, wide storage temperature range, fast activation under sudden power demand, and also wide range of temperature operating conditions. Such un |
| HQ0860-23-C-7607 | Advanced thin film thermal battery | $1,436,529 | BINERGY SCIENTIFIC, INC. | STTR | Phase II | MDA16-T001 | 07/13/2023 | 07/12/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Thermal batteries are single-discharge reserve batteries that provide a very long shelf life, minimal self-discharge, wide storage temperature range, fast activation under sudden power demand, and also a wide range of temperature operating conditions. 32Upon activation, thermal batteries are heated with an internal pyrotechnic heat charge above the melting temperature of the molten salt electrolyte. This allows for fast ion mobility and facilitates charge transfer reaction. Due to their unique properties, thermal batteries are primarily used in DoD applications, specifically in munitions and weapon systems. Modern applications and their latest development call for high-performance and cost-efficient thermal batteries. We propose developing, characterization, and optimizing binder/ separator, cathode, and anode. The objective is synthesis of high-performance thin film thermal battery cells and batteries that are scalable in industrial manufacturing. The proposed solution addresses significant market segment, and supports projected markets growth. Along with our development in Phase I and Phase II, we will aim for fully functional prototypes, and market of our technology to DoD agencies. Approved for Public Release | 23-MDA-11635 (9 Nov 23) |
| N68335-23-C-0180 | Software Framework for Integrated Human Modeling: Digital Representation of People (DROP) | $793,571 | BIOMOJO LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N201-009 | 12/22/2022 | 01/06/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Our Phase II approach is based on systems integrating each of the Digital Representation of People (DROP) components using a modular abstraction layer. This layer will form the core of our SDK data fusion framework and must be extensible and scalable. Our team needs to ensure that the resulting software architecture is future proofed for injesting and exporting data to/from future COTS and open-source digital human modeling software. We will develop the API for this along with the GUI for examination and manipulation of data stored in the human model. The API will also include precise conversion factors so that data from body scanners and other software packages can be injested into DROP. The modular abstraction layer wrapper will ensure that the rest of the application will stay independent of the multi-parameterized digital human data implementation and will enable the user to easily swap out to a different implementation or not use one at all. |
| FA8649-23-P-0589 | Ironhand – Increasing mission performance, increasing aircraft availability, and decreasing hand fatigue and injuries | $74,244 | BIONIC LIFT LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Bionic Lift is proposing a Phase I feasibility study for Ironhand, the world’s first and only soft exoskeleton for the hand, to examine if the technology can be used to solve AF mission needs to increase production, increase aircraft availability and re |
| W51701-23-C-0237 | BioSIPs®: Transforming Waste Paper and Biofibers into Building Materials? | $249,970 | BIOSIPS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | A234-P014 | 09/21/2023 | 03/27/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-1021 | Biomineralization using in situ materials to enhance Rapid Airfield Damage Recovery (RADR) and Development of Expeditionary Airfields | $1,200,281 | BIOSQUEEZE INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/19/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Select microbes contain an enzyme that promotes the hydrolysis of urea (ureolysis). This triggers an increase in pH and carbonate concentrations that, in turn, can cause dissolved minerals to precipitate and form solids similar to limestone. Recent resear |
| W51701-23-C-0163 | Natural language processing for Intelligence Collection & Exploitation (NICE) | $148,310 | BLACK CAPE, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | A234-007 | 07/27/2023 | 11/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W911NF23C0022 | Black Lab Holistic Health and Fitness Readiness Kit | $200,000 | BLACK LAB SPORTS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-005 | 05/02/2023 | 08/02/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | The military maintains the highest standards for training fit and mission capable Soldiers. As part of the Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) program, the Army currently builds Soldier Performance Readiness Centers (SPRC) for weekly training. The current construction costs of $16 million or more are prohibitively expensive, and reduced capacity will not allow the Army to achieve the training goals of bringing in Soldiers multiple times per week. Therefore, the Army is searching for innovative materials and methods for driving down construction costs as compared to using conventional methods. Traditional construction methods such as red iron, concrete masonry, and stick framing rely on heavy structural components with inefficient foundations and costly onsite labor which significantly drives up construction costs through wasted materials and labor hours. By employing manufacturing methods and materials which radically reduce the time and cost of construction, we will develop, build, and furnish operational human performance spaces [SPRCs] designed to generate athletes [lethal Soldiers] who are physically capable and mentally tough, focusing on all aspects of improving human performance optimization and mental fortitude, ultimately delivering a solution to provide approximately 110 SPRCs for each ARMY brigade by FY2030. Some manufacturing methods considered in Phase I will include fiber reinforced composites (FRPs), aircretes for reduced concrete usage and improved thermal performance, light gauge steel factory prefabricated offices and partitions, and other innovative processes and materials. We are equipped to approach the design of SPRCs by integrating extensive construction, materials and innovation knowledge paired with operational and functional expertise of human performance spaces. Importantly, consideration toward the unique needs of each user with regard to nutrition, mental health, and physical ability needs are of top priority in the design of each unit. To this end, our team consists of unique and successful and experienced individuals bringing together expertise ranging from construction, military service, to human performance and development. We strive to address the current gaps in pivotal areas of the holistic health and fitness of our military personnel by providing an effective, simple solution that enables them to establish, build, and maintain optimal mental and physical health and wellbeing facilities in any environment. We present our team’s knowledge, time, and experience to tackle the problems presented in this SBIR, and we look forward to utilizing these results to commercialize new building methods and holistic performance spaces. |
| FA8650-23-C-9206 | Multi-domain Precision Jammer (MP-JAMMER) for Responsible Navigation Warfare | $1,729,453 | BLACK RIVER SYSTEMS COMPANY, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D026 | 04/26/2023 | 08/01/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Black River Systems has developed an innovative “precision GNSS jamming” solution to meet the need within the DoD for a responsible C-PNT capability that can be employed against autonomous threats such as UAS. Our solution is founded on targeted GNSS sig |
| N68335-23-C-0647 | Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) in Complex Underwater Environments | $139,875 | BLACK RIVER SYSTEMS COMPANY, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-035 | 08/07/2023 | 02/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Black River Systems Company, Inc. proposes a novel online machine learning (OML) solution for underwater ATR using acoustic, magnetic, and EO sensors. The proposed solution, called TRACE (Target Recognition Aided by Continuous Evolution), will utilize tailored feature extractors and a robust online Bayesian classifier to maximize ATR performance in challenging underwater environments. TRACE is designed to minimize data overhead and to remain robust in situations when sensor streams are degraded or unavailable. Variational Bayesian ML techniques, the key driver of TRACE, will provide a flexible, and explainable framework for OML. Online updates will be achieved using compact representations of historic samples stored on disk to minimize data overhead and eliminate the need for persistent acoustic comms (ACOMMS). TRACE is easily extended to learn from a fleet of AUVs by populating the database with samples from various assets in real-time or post-mission. |
| FA8649-23-P-0168 | Runway Integrity Validation through Soil Moisture Measurements from a small UAS | $74,837 | BLACK SWIFT TECHNOLOGIES LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Black Swift Technologies (BST) has technology that can leverage sensors on small unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to measure and map out soil moisture data. This data is critical to USAF warfighters who fly in unconventional locations and require high resolution and timely soil moisture data to de-risk landing operations globally. |
| N68335-23-C-0616 | Development of a Nautical Electric Motor for submersible applications ( NEMo) | $138,393 | BLACKBOX ENERGY SYSTEMS, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-046 | 07/26/2023 | 01/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | In response to Navy SBIR solicitation topic N231-046 BlackBox Energy Systems proposes to investigate the capabilities of novel stator design axial flux BLDC motors for use in undersea unmanned vehicles. The Nautical Electric Motor (NEMo) will be highly efficient, lightweight cost effective and capable of operation in open seas up to 2000m depth. The NEMo will be capable of 5000rpm and up to 7Nm of torque with an integrated controller for ease of vehicle integration. |
| FA8649-23-P-0508 | Rubicon for Partner Nation Support | $1,247,790 | BLACK CAPE, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 11/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The 621st Air Control Squadron (621ACS) has a critical mission of providing air control services for combat air operations on the Korean Peninsula and surrounding area. Due to the current tensions between North and South Korea, as well as nuclear threats |
| H9240523P0015 | Hokkien Low Density Language Capability | $174,616 | BLACK CAPE, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | SOCOM232-002 | 08/29/2023 | 04/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | In a business where collaboration and rapport is critical, having Hokkien speakers may make or break a relationship with a partner nation. The military has linguists and contract translators, in addition to organic foreign language speakers; however, resources are extremely limited, so it is critical to invest in technologies that can enhance, enable, and complement existing resources. To address this problem, Black Cape would like to build a capability called Sid-ML, starting with a SBIR Phase I feasibility study to ascertain the requirements and technology needed to create a self-contained, speech-to-speech translator for low-density languages, starting with Chinese Hokkien. Low-density language speech-to-speech translation is incredibly difficult; however, Black Cape is experienced in natural language processing and large language models. For the Phase I feasibility study, Black Cape will focus on five key areas: artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models; required speech and text datasets; system and model microservice integration; commercial, off-the-shelf (COTS) handheld hardware to facilitate system and model integration; and integration roadmap with other relevant systems and capabilities. |
| FA2401-23-9-0018 | BlackSky Remote-Delivered Automated Target Recognition (RATR) | $1,249,998 | BLACKSKY GEOSPATIAL SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 08/11/2023 | 02/14/2025 | Department of Defense | BlackSky proposes building the Remote driven automated target recognition (ATR) Service, a fully end-to-end automated solution for tracking the movement of vehicles and maintaining custody of targets using data from multiple sensor systems. BlackSky will build a cloud-based ecosystem continuously pulling multi-INT satellite sensor data, fuses and processes it through artificial intelligence (AI) to track vehicles and distributes actionable intelligence to mobile devices and analysts worldwide. The goal of this effort is to develop an end-to-end software tool that aggregates opportunistic space-based capabilities and enables an efficient and reliable ecosystem for the request and delivery of data products. The focus is on space-to-ground based tracking of vehicles (cars, trucks, military vehicles, mobile equipment, ships, maritime military assets, etc). BlackSky will take advantage of existing commercial ground and space architectures and BlackSky’s proven vertically integrated, end-to-end solutions. BlackSky has invested over $350M in private capital over 7 years to develop an autonomous global remote sensing system that consists of a 14-satellite constellation of high-resolution visible imaging satellites and a global satellite ground system that enables rapid tasking, collection, and image data delivery. This is underpinned by a secure, fully cloud-enabled satellite operations system; a user-friendly, web-based tasking system; and a cloud-based exploitation system that utilizes continuously evolving AI/ML) technologies to fuse open-source intelligence feeds with satellite imagery to provide information and intelligence on critical objects of interest. BlackSky has developed a proven capability to track moving targets using it’s electro-optical (EO) satellite constellation. Unlike traditional Moving Target Indicator (MTI) that relies on radar sensors and the Doppler effect, BlackSky’s Spectra AI platform performs target tracking using multi-frame spaceborne optical imagery. Advancements in computing have afforded greater on-orbit processing capabilities than ever before, a key factor in achieving the low-latency requirements for Department of Defense (DoD) entities. BlackSky recently demonstrated its EO-based target recognition and MTI algorithms successfully within an on-orbit testbed. Experimenting within this resource-constrained environment produced valuable insight to appropriately architect on-orbit processing solutions. BlackSky will work to build the Spectra Custody Service, a fully end-to-end automated solution for tracking the movement of vehicles and maintain custody of targets using data from the BlackSky satellites and other sensor systems. BlackSky will conduct the work in 3 phases. (1) systems engineering work to verify the additional layers which close the loop and make vehicle monitoring possible at scale (2) develop the service, beginning with a maritime tracking use case (3) demonstration for moving vehicles. | |
| FA8649-23-P-0458 | BlackSky Space-borne Optical Inter-Satellite Links (OISL) Capability | $1,250,000 | BLACKSKY GEOSPATIAL SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/27/2023 | 08/27/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To meet USAF/USSF National Defense-related mission needs for near real-time requirements for ISR Tasking, Collection, Processing, Exploitation and Dissemination (TCPED) for satellite Earth-imaging systems, BlackSky proposes to adapt its Gen-3 commercial s |
| FA8649-23-P-0479 | Lowering F135 Integrally Bladed Rotor Sustainment Costs with SmartBlend | $749,130 | BLADE DIAGNOSTICS CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/08/2023 | 08/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Blade Diagnostics Corporation (BDC) develops systems for measuring and analyzing the geometry and vibratory response of integrally bladed rotors (IBRs). Their product, SmartBlend® Systems (SBS), incorporates next generation testing and analytics for acti |
| HQ0860-23-C-7514 | Improved Hypersonic Jet Interaction Modeling with Propulsion Exhaust Chemistry | $155,000 | [www.blazetech.com BLAZETECH CORPORATION] | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T005 | 11/30/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | BlazeTech is collaborating with University of Colorado using their hypersonic CFD code LeMANS as a platform on which to integrate a novel combustion code that iteratively adapts its chemical model based on the local flow structure. In this way, the chemistry and fluid mechanics are closely coupled, and simplified models may be leveraged for their low computational cost when more detailed models are unnecessary. Thus, liquid and solid propellant chemistries can be treated. This development offers the potential of accurate predictions of jet flow interactions and afterburning at reasonable computational cost. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| FA8649-23-P-0632 | Attritable Airborne Precision Delivery System | $66,784 | BLUE AETHER INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The airborne precision delivery mission will need to be conducted from higher altitudes and higher speeds when faced against a near peer threat in both urban and rural operational environments. With the greater standoff distance, operators will require t |
| FA2518-23-P-0001 | Space Anomaly Forensics & Environment Resolution (SAFER) Version 2.0, Sequential Phase 2 SBIR | $1,699,950 | BLUE EYE SOFT CORP | SBIR | Phase II | J201-CSO1 | 10/18/2022 | 09/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The last several decades have seen astonishing technological progress in fields like personal computing and earthly atmospheric weather prediction, but space weather prediction today is no more reliable than it was in the 1960s. The lack of advancement in the space weather anomaly prediction is glaring, and the space domain holds tremendous transformational potential for future global connectivity, including projecting diplomatic reach and power. Accurately forecasting space weather impacts on spacecrafts allows operators to safely protect spacecraft, while also providing critical data for spacecraft design, production, and sustainment. Private- and public-sector leaders, including military leaders, could provide decisive mission capabilities and reliable space services to increase system performance as well as human spaceflight safety. Blue Eye is a South Carolina based company accelerating the technological competence and innovation in predictive analytics. BES is developing the latest advancements in ML, DF, and AI that will bring a new normal for spacecraft anomaly prediction. Almost 70 years since the term “space weather” was first used, the time is right for high-confidence space weather forecasting and detecting its impacts. The number of spacecrafts orbiting Earth has grown exponentially in the 21st Century and the spur of commercial space travel and transportation increasingly necessitates safety in the space environment |
| N68335-23-C-0190 | Distributed Maritime Operations – Environmental Intelligence (DMO-EI) | $1,499,998 | BLUE STORM ASSOCIATES INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A19-071 | 02/23/2023 | 04/07/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Sequential Phase II builds upon the work completed under Army SBIR Topic #A19-071, Weather Situational Awareness in the Cockpit, which focuses on providing graphical environmental intelligence (EI) in the cockpit of tactical aircraft. Under this subsequent Phase II effort, PEMDAS proposes to develop a prototype Distributed Maritime Operations – Environmental Intelligence (DMO-EI) system to support Navy, Marine, and Coast Guard manned and unmanned Intelligence-Surveillance-Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms and missions. Using the prototype machine-to-machine capabilities currently being established in the Army SBIR, PEMDAS will expand the flight envelope of environmental situational awareness from low altitudes supporting the Army to middle and high altitudes common to Navy manned and unmanned aviation operations. Further, situational awareness will be expanded and tailored to meet the dynamic environmental concerns beyond icing to include turbulence, lightning, and high-altitude jet stream winds. Additionally, airborne atmospheric sensors will be adapted to designated manned and unmanned platform to demonstrate the operational utility of sensing to provide real threat warnings and displays to pilots and operators. The prototype DMO-EI will employ machine-to-machine processing to derive Navy mission decision products to improve success and enhance survivability. Examples of decision products are real-time cloud and icing layers, cloud-free line-of-sight ranges, localized winds, and lightning. This sequential SBIR will also initiate application of basic artificial intelligence (AI) concepts to generate predictive mission information capabilities for autonomous platforms. PEMDAS proposes to execute this subsequent SBIR effort through four major technical objectives. Technical Objective (TO 1) will design the prototype DMO-EI system relevant to Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard ISR platforms and missions. Technical Objective (TO 2) will build and test prototypes for the DMO-EI subsystems: Collect and Store, Process, and Interoperability. Enhanced subsystems will be integrated into a complete prototype DMO-EI system and tested. Technical Objective (TO 3) will enhance and integrate the PEMDAS Atmospheric Sensing and Prediction System (ASAPS®) to improve situational awareness on Government-selected manned and unmanned airframes. This sequential SBIR will conclude with delivery of a subset of the EI decision support products outlined in TO 1 in real time. The specific systems the prototype DMO-EI system will integrate will be determined based on availability of Navy/Marine Corps/Coast Guard assets. |
| W911NF-23-P-0016 | Accelerated atomic fusion via in-situ ultra-thin and ultra-pure surface catalyzation for bonding ultra-wide bandgap, ultra-high power, high thermal conductivity large area wafers and power devices | $249,913 | BLUE WAVE SEMICONDUCTORS INC | STTR | Phase I | OSD22B-004 | 02/22/2023 | 02/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Office of the Secretary of Defense | Advance microelectronic systems and defense electronics require high power electronics such as High voltage and high efficiency power diodes. Ultra-wide band gap (UWBG) devices based on GaN, SiC, Diamond, Ga2O3 have attractive electronic and thermal properties that have positioned them to their full potential with offer savings in both energy and cost in high-power, high-temperature electronic device applications. Among these UWBG materials, SiC and CVD diamond are attractive for wafer application due to their high thermal conductivities and importantly availability in large size wafers. Whereas GaN and Ga2O3 have superior electronic properties in terms of device performances in their device categories. There is a huge potential synergy in achieving highest performance in UWBG devices by realizing hydride structures by interface fusion technology which is the foundation of this proposal. This proposal addresses a novel approach and further advancement in interface infusion via surface activation, catalyzation, and chemical ordering to create ultra-sharp interfaces between dissimilar materials with lowest possible thermal resistance between devices to bonded substrates. Our methodological approach will advance device fabrication and bonding engineering to yield a commercially viable manufacturing system turkey product for advanced electronic devices. We propose Phase I option, and its goal is to optimize surface bonding processing conditions versus interface thermal resistance that will lead to design and improve the manufacturability, quality, and efficiency of thermal transport across heterogeneous interfaces via in-situ ultra-thin and ultra-pure surface catalyzation using our accelerated atomic fusion technology for bonding high thermal conductivity large area wafers with UWBG and ultra-high-power devices. We are a number 1 company in supplying turnkey thin film deposition, processing, and CVD diamond systems and wafer scale thin films and coating. Our proprietary designs include more advanced plasma processing (laser induced plasma, electron beam processing, and DC, RF and microwave) for growth and altering surfaces of oxides, nitride, carbide, CVD diamond, and metals. We have commercialized and now supplying state-of-the-art thin film processing products last 20 years in R&D market. Our processing tool involves, high-vacuum and ultra-high vacuum processing chambers with laser, ion, electron, atomic hydrogen, atomic nitrogen, atomic oxygen radicals to control surface and interfaces of semiconductors and oxide wafers for surface medication, epitaxial and single crystal growth, and bonding and metallization, in-situ monitoring (laser interference reflectivity, RHEED, and RGA) to a complete device fabrication such as diodes, capacitors, MEMs devices, deep UV to deep IR coatings and sensors. This proposal also addresses Phase II development plan to reduce technical risks and bring this product to successful commercialization during Phase III. |
| FA8649-23-P-0090 | Chinese IP Theft Beneficiary Identification | $74,892 | BLUEFOOT INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | BlueFoot wants to build a software solution that accurately identifies the actual corporate owners of patents filed by Chinese-language only patent assignee names, to feed into its machine-learning tool. The Chinese innovation landscape is a black box, as mass translation of patents and correlation to Chinese corporate owners is currently unavailable. Enabling this translation and correlation provides insight into the Chinese domestic innovation landscape, and how IP theft by Chinese actors could be leveraged and monetized via the patent system. In particular, BlueFoot can help the Air Force (including its Phase 1 LoS signor, SAF/CDM) timely identify potential beneficiaries of Chinese IP theft. This solution would require creation of a translation encoder to detect Chinese-language only patent assignee names and automatically correlate to the English version of corporate trees. |
| FA8649-23-P-0512 | Automated Due Diligence Capability that Uses Patent Analysis to Identify SBIR/STTR Persons Connected to Chinese Entities | $1,249,788 | BLUEFOOT INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/03/2023 | 11/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Under this proposed Phase II effort, BlueFoot will conduct Research and Development to create a new automated due diligence capability to identify SBIR/STTR persons connected to Chinese entities, by using data science to analyze patent, corporate, and SBIR/STTR data. BlueFoot’s new automated due diligence capability will identify, for example, a SBIR/STTR awardee who BlueFoot discovered may have connections to multiple Chinese entities, despite receiving over $31 million in SBIR/STTR awards from various agencies across the government. In particular, this new capability will use data science to aggregate and correlate patent data with corporate and SBIR/STTR data in order to identify relationships between persons associated with SBIR/STTR companies and Chinese entities. BlueFoot’s proposed due diligence capability can help protect Air Force investment in defense critical technologies by limiting support of persons who engage with Chinese entities or file patents on their behalf. Identifying and addressing these persons is critical to the international competitiveness of the United States within the science and technology ecosystem. This technological capability will also help fulfill due diligence requirements recently codified in S.4900 (SBIR and STTR Extension Act of 2022) which require the establishment of a “due diligence program to assess security risks” which must use a “risk-based approach” that includes “patent analysis” and “financial ties and obligations… of the small business concern to a foreign country, foreign person, or foreign entity.” |
| FA8649-23-P-0292 | Potential Chinese Patenting of Stolen IP | $74,892 | BLUEFOOT INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | BlueFoot wants to build a machine translation and categorization solution for Chinese-language only patents. Enabling this translation and categorization provides insight into the Chinese domestic innovation landscape, and how IP theft by Chinese actors is being leveraged and monetized via the patent system. In particular, BlueFoot can help the Air Force (including its Phase 1 LoS signor, SAF/CDM) closely and accurately track Chinese actors’ domestic patenting activities in key technology areas (e.g., quantum computing, microelectronics, hypersonic, etc.) and how similar these patented technologies are to U.S. patents in the same technology areas. The solution would require creation of a custom emerging technology dictionary to enable the translation and categorization of Chinese-language only patents to technology areas. |
| FA7146-23-C-0018 | TacFi - SBIR OCEA Effort | $419,904 | BLUEFOOT INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF211-CSO1 | 06/26/2023 | 06/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Refer to the SoW in Volume II |
| FA8649-23-P-0740 | TAK Enabled Meshed Signaling Device | $74,135 | BLUEGRASS EMBEDDED DESIGN LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/01/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Technical Abstract: Faradine Systems (Faradine) in partnership with goTenna seeks to develop a low Size Weight and Power-Cost (SWAP-C), drop-and-go device to serve as a Team Awareness Kit/Tactical Assault Kit (TAK) meshed networked node. This solution wil |
| 140D0423C0071 | Network-Based Visualization Algorithms for Improved Feature Engineering, Analysis, and Modeling | $1,687,309 | BLUELIGHTAI INC | SBIR | Phase II | NGA203-003 | 07/21/2023 | 01/24/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | BlueLightAI is developing methods for addressing crucial issues confronting Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence development and implementation. These issues include massive data requirements as well as massive space and time resources for building accurate models. In addition, Deep Learning is often seen as a black box, with little transparency and explainability, which, presents problems for adoption in heavily regulated industries such as health care and finance as well as important DoD applications. Finally, while development of the resulting models requires substantial mathematical, statistical, and engineering expertise on the part of the developer, there is the general understanding that Deep Learning cannot be engineered, in the sense that it is not the result of an iterative procedure in which each step provides improvement, but instead is the result of extensive experimentation. To address all these issues, BlueLightAI has built a platform for interactive, visual data analysis and exploration for complex data based on Topological Data Analysis. In the platform, users can explore graph-based representations of their data and features, and investigate the relationships found in the dataset through interactive colorings of these visualizations. Among other things, this allows them to discover clusters of features that readily distinguish two groups of interest, or to stratify groups based on similarity or proximity in the graphs. The goal of this proposal is to take the next step; namely, to extend the capabilities of our platform to include building and deploying predictive models. With these additional capabilities, users will be able to take an insight obtained by exploratory analysis and transform it into a system that delivers real-world value. These new modeling tools will be based on novel techniques that are tightly integrated with the graph-based visualization and analysis tools already present in the BlueLightAI platform. These techniques are currently in the initial stages of research, and the commercialization process will begin with validating and refining them on relevant datasets, as well as developing prototypes of the user-facing interface. In this base period in our proposal, we will concentrate on two main themes: (1) Developing novel functionality that supports building and delivering explainable and performant predictive models, validated by application to a real-world dataset. (2) Building a prototype application for real time predictions using an appropriately chosen datasets to transition to the commercialization of our work. Finally, a substantial body of research initiated and conducted by the PI, his academic group, and the company itself has demonstrated proofs of concept on a variety of examples and establishes feasibility for the pioneering BlueLightAI approach detailed here. |
| W31P4Q-23-C-0024 | Third-Party Verification of COTS Software Compliance with Requirements | $1,479,634 | [www.bluerisc.com BLUERISC INC] | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-08 | 03/06/2023 | 03/06/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | BlueRISC’s proposed solution provides a new, fundamental approach to enabling the validation of COTS software with respect to a set of defined requirements. The solution is built on a generic program analytic framework for processing and validating against requirements. The proposed solution operates strictly at the binary-level and does so in a processor/ISA-agnostic manner. The solution automatically generates a confidence metric conveying the likelihood that a specific requirement is met within a software. |
| W912CG23P0002 | Side Channels for Heterogenous Integrated Circuits | $249,966 | [www.bluerisc.com BLUERISC INC] | SBIR | Phase I | HR0011SB20224-15 | 01/18/2023 | 08/23/2023 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The proposed solution takes the form of an automated toolkit that uses side-channel measurements to drive an AI/ML pipeline that has been designed to characterize heterogeneous integrated circuits (HICs). The solution does not require a golden value for the design-under test to enable component-level characterization. It operates on fully packaged chips in an automated fashion. |
| N6600123C4008 | Maritime Sensor Data System (MSDS) | $1,499,975 | [www.bluerisc.com BLUERISC INC] | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-16 | 02/09/2023 | 08/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | BlueRISC’s proposed Maritime Sensor Data System (MSDS) solution provides an innovative approach to enabling the collection and storage of sensor data as well as synthesis of analytics. The solution is built on a low-cost hardware platform equipped with software to access a scalable and secure cloud architecture maintaining this information, as well as a cloud-based analytics platform. |
| W5170123C0019 | 4D Predictive Perception Software for Autonomous Ground Systems | $1,617,637 | BLUESPACE.AI, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A224-009 | 02/24/2023 | 08/23/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8649-23-P-0048 | Responsive and Tactical Space Launch System (RTSLS) | $1,241,509 | BLUSHIFT AEROSPACE INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 12/06/2022 | 08/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | bluShift wants to use our core technologies to develop a launch vehicle system that can be used as a responsive method of quickly launching, assisting, or re-deploying small satellites that are critical for national security or other basic functions that keep America running safely and securely. These small, robust, storable, and nimble launch vehicles will form the bluShift RTSLS fleet (Responsive and Tactical Space Launch System). bluShift has been developing a simple hybrid (solid fuel, liquid oxidizer) propulsion system, that has simplicity and robustness benefits over full liquid propulsion systems, and safety benefits over solid propulsion systems, while retaining some of the benefits of solids (storability) and of liquids (control and start/re-start capability). This unique propulsion system is referred to as MAREVL (Modular Adaptable Rocket Engine for Vehicle Launch), and bluShift envisions many exciting applications for the technology. Part of the MAREVL development roadmap included a successful NASA phase I SBIR. One key benefit is the bio-derived fuel that is completely non-toxic and storable, eliminating many of the traditional environmental concerns with launch vehicle mishaps. The oxidizer is also non-toxic and storable. bluShift will be using the MAREVL propulsion system in commercial launch vehicles tailored for the launch of small satellites ( |
| FA8649-23-P-0180 | BlyncSync IoT safety platform for fleet driver biometric tracking | $74,900 | BLYNCSYNC TECHNOLOGIES LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Fatigue and distraction are two of the biggest causes of road accidents (in 93% of cases). There is a huge need for preventive tools that effectively focuses on the source of the issue, the driver symptoms (e.g., blinks, heartbeat), before they cause mishaps. BlyncSync is a patented system for fleet driver biometric tracking. We use a proactive approach for avoiding accidents through predictive analytics. BlyncSync is a safety platform that combines driver information (e.g., pulse rate, eye movements) provided by Smart wearable devices (smart glasses) with vehicle handling information (e.g., lane deviation) from the vehicle sensors. BlyncSync displays exactly when a driver can expect to feel fatigue alongside his real-time fatigue level. In the DoD, tactical motor vehicles mishaps are the biggest killer of on-duty soldiers. And similar to the non-DoD market, fatigue and distraction play a critical role, especially in longer daylight periods. BlyncSync will be able to provide timestamps of when soldiers become drowsy, so that sergeants can identify trends and problem areas, then in turn have improvement points for soldier training. With this Phase I project, we are targeting the DoD PEOS for the Mobility and Training Aircraft Directorate and Logistics and Product Support to address the first cause of on-duty soldier injury and death with a cost-effective and easy-to-use technology. |
| FA9101-23-P-B056 | Imaging Spectropyrometer for Hypersonic TPS Characterization | $180,000 | BODKIN DESIGN & ENGINEERING LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0005 | 06/20/2023 | 03/20/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Development and optimization of thermal protection systems (TPS) for hypersonic vehicles rely on accurate knowledge of TPS temperature and emissivity. Current COTS instrumentation provides point measurements, but spatially resolved temperature and emissiv |
| FA9101-23-P-B051 | In-Situ BRDF Measurement for Spacecraft Materials Testing | $180,000 | BODKIN DESIGN & ENGINEERING LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0004 | 06/15/2023 | 03/18/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | An optical system is proposed that will provides long stand-off BRDF measurements in the visible thru IR wavelengths to be installed in an AEDC test chamber. |
| W911NF23C0029 | FastFish | $849,713 | BOSTON ENGINEERING CORPORATION | STTR | Phase II | OSD21C-007 | 09/01/2023 | 08/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Office of the Secretary of Defense | High performance underwater operation with low probability of detection in challenging areas can provide significant value across many naval missions. There is an ongoing desire for greater range, endurance, and speed for unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs). Bio-informed UUV designs offer potential improvements, particularly in swimming speed. Boston Engineering is proud to offer “bio-robotics convergent evolution”: a solution based on the combined technology and expertise of our world class team. Our team includes leaders in bioinspired robotics: Dr. Hilary Bart-Smith, her team at the University of Virginia, Dr. George Lauder of Harvard University, and Boston Engineering, producers of GhostSwimmer, the Navy’s highly successful autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) that replicates the dynamics of fish to move rapidly and accurately in areas inaccessible to other vehicles. This proposal leverages the existing proven technology of Boston Engineering with the latest ground-breaking bio-informed robotic system development and analyses of our team. This combination provides major advances in UUV speed-at-low-cost of transport that is beyond state of the art and focuses on the specific challenges of this development. Our unique approach advances to well-beyond-SOTA more rapidly, provides greater probability of success in all Phases, and focuses on the right risks, while reducing the others. |
| N68335-23-C-0477 | Underwater Antifouling Crawler | $139,999 | BOSTON ENGINEERING CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N231-031 | 06/23/2023 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | NAVSEA 04, through the National Center for Manufacturing Services (NCMS), has issued a Phase III SBIR contract to Boston Engineering to advance a commercial above water hull vacuum-hold traversing technology (Vacuum Crawler) developed by International Climbing Machines (ICM). Boston Engineering is under contract to redesign a commercial robotic system with components appropriate for defense applications, including addressing ruggedization, design for manufacturing, cybersecurity, and system certification. Boston Engineering previously conceptually designed a means to convert the above water crawler to operate underwater as part of the execution of SBIR N161-044 to develop Maritime Ultraviolet Antifouling (MUVA) capability. Therefore, we have shown how use one system could be designed to operate above and below water with minimum configuration changes. A system is proposed that will have over 50% of its design leverageable for this program (N231-031), including open architecture software, electronics, and user interface. Advances for the proposed underwater variant will include packaging design appropriate for underwater operation, specific navigation capability for boat and ship hulls, and the automation required to deliver the desired cavitation jetting to remove biofouling. An advantage of vacuum- or suction-hold is the ability to operate on non-ferrous surfaces, such as SHT: Anechoic coating. The envisioned robotic delivery technology uses compliant tracks enabling the ability to traverse non-smooth surfaces and most protrusions typical on the hull surface, including slopes (e.g., conformal arrays) and ridges. Fine positioning features of a robotic arm are compared with simpler but equally effective set of controlled, fixed nozzles on the front of the delivery system. |
| N68335-23-C-0709 | Autonomous Swarming Hierarchies (ASH) | $139,931 | BOSTON FUSION CORP | STTR | Phase I | N23B-T031 | 09/13/2023 | 03/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Boston Fusion Corp. and the Cyber-Physical Systems Laboratory at Rutgers University propose Autonomous Swarming Hierarchies (ASH), a platform-agnostic multi-robot system (MRS) design software suite with three components: 1) a coordination module (CASH) that uses artificial intelligence/machine learning to automatically generate control policies for the robots comprising the system, 2) a networking module (NASH) that automatically synthesizes the MRS cyber topology, while enforcing connectivity constraints, modalities, encoding options, etc., and 3) an optimization module (OASH) that uses an optimization engine to search for the best physical and logical robot configurations that meet specific performance bounds. With CASH, a user can train an MRS to best coordinate the accomplishment of a mission; however, the user needs to specify a priori the types of robots in the system, their software configuration, and the system’s cyber topology. With CASH and NASH together, the user still needs to specify the types of robots that comprise the system, but the cyber topology is automatically synthesized. If OASH is also enabled, the types of robots or their software configuration will be optimized for the desired mission. ASH’s modularity affords maximum flexibility in MRS mission design and deployment. |
| FA8649-23-P-1253 | Protecting Critical Infrastructure with Near Real-Time Geospatial Intelligence | $1,249,955 | BOSTON GEOSPATIAL, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 09/28/2023 | 03/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Founded in 2020, Boston Geospatial (BG) brings near real-time natural threat intelligence to operators and decision makers using its sensor agnostic radar processing platform. The Air Force Civil Engineering Center (AFCEC) and civil engineering squadrons |
| FA8649-23-P-0256 | Protecting Critical Infrastructure with Near Real-Time Geospatial Intelligence | $74,967 | BOSTON GEOSPATIAL, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 02/01/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Founded in 2020, Boston Geospatial (BG) brings near real-time natural threat intelligence to operators and decision makers using its sensor agnostic radar processing platform. The Air Force Civil Engineering Center (AFCEC) and intelligence squadrons currently do not have a comprehensive and effective solution to detect and measure geohazard threats to critical infrastructure. CONUS/OCONUS installations, including the six bases in the arctic and sub-arctic regions, are becoming increasingly vulnerable to natural hazards. BG plans to mature and integrate its geospatial technology with current Air Force processes to deliver turnkey, near real-time hazard intelligence that could quickly scale to all squadrons throughout the world. |
| FA8649-23-P-1022 | System for UltraFast Additive Manufacturing of Electronics with correction and validation | $1,249,995 | BOTFACTORY, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 03/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force has a need for rapidly manufacturing complex PCBs to provide superior operational readiness to the force. Traditional PCB manufacturing methods are a bottleneck that prevents the USAF from achieving the required level of agility. For almost |
| FA4417-23-C-0007 | Enhanced Low Light Capabilities for Throwable 360-Degree Camera System | $1,699,734 | BOUNCE IMAGING, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF192-D001 | 07/17/2023 | 07/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Airmen and first-responders face a common problem of situational awareness in close quarters and confined space. Whether clearing rooms, attics, and stairwells, or simply seeking basic reconnaissance about what lies on the other side of a compound wall, t |
| FA8649-23-P-1023 | UGV/UAS Deployable 360-Degree Tetherable Sensor for Drone-Inaccessible Environments | $1,247,742 | BOUNCE IMAGING, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/20/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The United States Air Force, Air Force Global Strike Command, and specifically, the 91st Missile Wing, have a national defense-related mission need in the area of resilient information sharing. The Missile Wing is responsible for providing nuclear deterre |
| HT9425-23-P-0037 | Combat Oxygenation Device to Remedy ARDS | $247,845 | BOUNDLESS SCIENCE, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | DHA231-004 | 06/21/2023 | 01/29/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | The COMBAT OXYGENATION DEVICE (COD) is a small, portable device that provides instant oxygenation and CO2 removal for warfighters with battle-compromised lungs on the battlefield, specifically from blast, chemical, and biological attacks, targeting the subsequent Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) which results. This device gently rejuvenates damaged lungs by spraying an oxygenated liquid perfluorocarbon (LP) into the lungs, which (1) provides a large bolus of oxygen to the bloodstream while reducing inflammation, (2) recruits alveoli filled with plasma or infection for continued oxygenation, (3) acts a pulmonary surfactant allowing the recruited alveoli to continue to function properly, and (4) removes CO2 from the bloodstream. COD will be delivered in 200ml doses over time by (1) the patient breathing in aerosolized spray over ~10 minutes via inhalation or an endotracheal (or similar) tube via a ventilator. Aerosol delivery of LPCs is well studied and known to dramatically improve lung function for patients with a variety of lung ailments, including ARDS, pneumonia, asthma, and anaphylaxis. While the COD will become a vital life-saving device on the battlefield, it will also be extremely useful for use in ambulances, emergency rooms, and intensive care units where ARDS is common and deadly. |
| W51701-23-C-0238 | 3D Printed Composite Bio-Walls for Sustainable Construction | $248,728 | BRANCH TECHNOLOGY, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | A234-P014 | 09/08/2023 | 03/13/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0132 | Expeditionary Large-Scale Freeform Composite 3D Printing for Deployed Environments with Indigenous Materials | $75,000 | BRANCH TECHNOLOGY, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Branch Technology is an architectural prefabricator with a patented construction-scale 3D printing process called Cellular Fabrication (C-Fab®). This process combines industrial robotics, proprietary geometric sequencing algorithms, composite material assemblies, and a novel “Freeform” extrusion method that allows printed material to solidify in free space without supports. The resulting products are lightweight, strong, and custom-geometry construction components that perform a variety of functions based on design and product intent. In this project, Branch proposes adapting the above commercial fabrication technology to a specific need for expeditionary in-situ resource utilization (ISRU) in an autonomous manufacturing and construction technology in deployed environments. Branch's 3D printing machines currently operate in a factory setting with high-performance yet commodity materials. Adapting this solution to an expeditionary instance with a possibility for indigenous material use will require significant advancement and technical R&D. Fortunately, Branch has been awarded a contract with NASA for investigating lunar-surface ISRU 3D printing, and through this award has a contract with Stanford University for a biologically-bound soil composite (BSC) that could be in-situ derivable on the moon but also in remote/austere terrestrial environments using locally sourced aggregates and biopolymer binding agent. In this project, Branch proposes to begin Phase I customer discovery and requirement-planning for an expeditionary demonstration of its C-Fab® printers with a possibility of using BSC and terrestrial aggregates like sand as a feedstock. The proposed research tasks include (1) a kickoff meeting with existing interested parties about the defense adaptation, (2), a prioritized list of use cases, (3), physical footprint and size constraint definition, (4) mechanical and hardware adaptation research, and (5) an initial financial proforma of proposed hardware adaptations for a Phase II demonstration. Potential benefits of the technology could include: independence from constraining supply-chains, operational flexibility at deployed environments for construction, manufacturing, restoration and more, and support of strategic USAF initiatives like Agile Combat Employment (ACE), Bomber Strategic Aircraft Recovery Teams (BSART), and more. |
| FA8649-23-P-1034 | Energy Efficiency, Force Protection, and Resilient Basing through Custom, On-Demand Building Retrofits | $1,130,000 | BRANCH TECHNOLOGY, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/20/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Branch Technology is an architectural manufacturer specializing in construction 3D printing. Branch's process, called Cellular Fabrication (C-Fab®), combines industrial robotics, custom geometric sequencing algorithms, a novel "Freeform" extrusion technol |
| W911QX-23-P-0018 | Multi-Domain C2 RL Training Environment: MUD CRANE | $111,460 | BOSTON FUSION CORP | SBIR | Phase I | A22-004 | 01/09/2023 | 07/08/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Boston Fusion Corp. (BFC) and MAK Technologies (MAK) propose MUD CRANE: Multi-Domain C2 RL Training Environment. The need for simulating multi-domain operations (MDO) is pressing, with the first Defense priority in the upcoming 2022 National Defense Strategy highlighting the “…growing multi-domain thread posed by the PRC [People’s Republic of China]”. MDO presents both opportunity and challenge for Joint Forces as it provides a plethora of options to commanders to execute simultaneous and sequential operations. The tempo and complexity of command and control (C2) decision-making increase in MDO scenarios, with forces seeking windows of superiority for temporary dominance over an adversary. MUD CRANE will allow war planners to leverage advances in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly within deep reinforcement learning (DRL), to support their decision-making. These algorithmic approaches have proven adept in numerous strategic settings, beating human champions at the strategic games of Go and StarCraft 2. MUD CRANE will support applying these techniques within the military decision-making process (MDMP) to enable faster, more robust course of action (CoA) planning support in MDO. Furthermore, MUD CRANE will support Army researchers seeking to develop relevant, cutting-edge DRL agents in support of this mission. Effective DRL approaches require simulation environments which rest on the three pillars of very high speed execution, multi-domain richness/fidelity, and specialized AI/ML interfaces. An environment must execute fast enough to generate massive amounts of training data for DRL techniques in an operationally relevant window of time, must include enough realism for DRL agents to learn meaningful strategies transferrable to the battlespace, and must include flexible interfaces enabling DRL model experimentation, updates, and replacements. MUD CRANE will offer: (1) A high-speed, multi-domain, operationally relevant high-fidelity simulation environment which is broadly accepted within the DoD community with built-in scalability and open communication standards; (2) Flexible machine interfaces for training DRL agents, allowing for user-defined observation and action spaces and plug-ins for calculating custom reward functions. Additional interfaces will include tools for generating stochastic scenarios varying force laydowns and compositions, Red and Blue CoAs, as well as environmental factors such as weather and time of day; (3) A framework for human interaction with the DRL training process, creating a teaming environment for CoA generation; (4) Plug-ins for quantifying custom metrics, including CoA complexity measurements; (5) Well-documented exemplar DRL agents for experimental demonstrations; and (6) A researcher-centric framework allowing each entity to be controlled by a DRL agent, default (scripted) behaviors, or user-defined behavior trees. |
| N68335-23-C-0303 | Small Auxiliary Lightweight Turbogenerator Engine (SALT-E) | $139,944 | BRAYTON ENERGY LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T016 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Current VTOL UASs in development, and concepts being pursued by both commercial and military operators, require high-power delivery on takeoff and landing segments. This duty can be served with a special purpose ultra-lightweight gas turbine-alternator. For this short duty cycle, the relaxed SFC requirement opens opportunities for weight reduction strategies. This FOA’s specification for electric power/weight ratio of 2 hp/lb is extremely demanding, roughly twice that of Brayton’s existing GT35 kWe recuperated microturbine alternator and about 4X that of commercial microturbines in this power class. However, the SFC target is considerably more lenient. Upon close inspection, meeting the Navy lightweight specification is not possible by simplifying dropping the recuperator from our GT35. Meeting the > 2 hp/lb specification requires a departure from conventional microturbine design formula. With heavy emphasis on weight over efficiency, Brayton’s design adopts two foundational principles; maximize speed-power product for the alternator and maximize the turbine inlet temperature. |
| W51701-23-C-0160 | Federated Learning Approach to Natural Language Processing | $149,670 | BRIGHT APPS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-007 | 07/11/2023 | 11/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W911SR-23-C-0025 | Realtime PB-IED and Threat Detection With Spectro-Polarimetric Hyperspectral Camera | $1,315,112 | [www://brimrosetechnology.com BRIMROSE TECHNOLOGY CORP] | STTR | Phase II | NASA T8-01 | 09/05/2023 | 09/04/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Optical detection of objects hidden behind opaque layers is a challenging problem. As such, Person-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (PB-IEDs) underneath clothing continue to be a persistent threat to the military and law enforcement communities. Safe stand-off detection in crowds is needed for the confirmation, identification, and neutralization of PB-IEDs. Technologies previously investigated include terahertz, millimeter wave, x-ray, radar, and LWIR, however several factors, such as performance, cost, lack of covertness, have prevented wide scale implementation of these technologies. Recent studies on the imaging spectroscopic measurement of cloth fabrics with visible and SWIR Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI) instrument suggests that this spectral region for PB-IED detection presents its potential for detecting object under fabric materials. The proposed approach to counter PB-IED is based on Acousto-Optic Tunable Filter (AOTF) and Liquid Crystal Variable Retarder (LCVR)-based Polarimetric HSI (PHSI), to detect, identify, and visualize hidden objects under the cloth with analysis of PHSI data with deep learning algorithms in real time. |
| HT9425-23-P-0087 | Robust, Speckle-Tolerant, Handheld Non-Contact Vital Sign Monitor With Photonics IC | $249,412 | [www://brimrosetechnology.com BRIMROSE TECHNOLOGY CORP] | SBIR | Phase I | DHA232-002 | 09/12/2023 | 04/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | We propose the development, through multiple iterations, the designs for a medic-mount, non-contact laser vital signs monitor (ncLVSM) that will aid medic’s triaging of injured Warfighter by autonomously retrieving the Warfighter’s vital signs (VS) without manual intervention by the medic. Pose sensing, assisted with overlaid human anatomy, triggers the retrieval of injured Warfighter’s vital signs by re-directing the eye-safe probing laser beam to the selected area judged to have the highest likelihood of sufficiently good VS detection SNR. The VS to be monitored include Heart Rate (HR), Respiration Rate (RR), Arterial Waveform (AWF), core body temperature (Tc), and systolic/diastolic blood pressure (BP). We propose the use of an Optical-Speckle-Tolerant Laser Vibrometer capable of retrieving the RR from the chest while the HR, AWF, and calculated systolic/diastolic BP will be retrieved from lower body like thigh or shin where signal perturbations from respiration will be minimal. Tc will be determined by integrated thermal imager. The high detection sensitivity and optical speckle tolerance of the proposed Brimrose laser vibrometer enables retrieval of afore-mentioned VS from the surface of the soldier’s clothing/footwear as skin exposure to the laser beam is not required. Deployment of photonics integrated circuit (PIC) will contribute to a ncLVSM with dimensions mimicking modern day cellphones. We have formed a team of experts who will tackle the issues of using PIC, including PIC design and minimization of optical coupling losses. AIM Photonics’ protocols will be deployed for PIC designs in Phase I with PIC device build in the Phase II program |
| W911SR-23-C-0010 | Low Cost Imaging In The mm Wave Region Using Plasma Waves in High Mobility Transistor | $182,883 | [www://brimrosetechnology.com BRIMROSE TECHNOLOGY CORP] | STTR | Phase I | CBD22B-T001 | 07/05/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | In this work, we propose to develop low-cost, high sensitivity high electron mobility transistor-based W-band millimeter wave focal plane array/camera based on mature ternary III-V epitaxial materials of InAlAs on top of InP substrate. The plasma-wave detector uses well established mature technology of high electron mobility transistors which allows future integration and reduces cost. The detectors are uncooled since no drain-source voltage is applied, hence there is no dark current present, promoting low power operation. |
| HT9425-23-P-0090 | Development of Handheld, Optical Speckle-Tolerant Non-Contact Laser Near-Infrared Photoacoustic Imager with Photonics Integrated Circuit | $249,911 | [www://brimrosetechnology.com BRIMROSE TECHNOLOGY CORP] | SBIR | Phase I | DHA232-001 | 09/13/2023 | 04/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | We propose a research program that focuses on the design of a handheld, non-contact Near-Infrared Photoacoustic (ncNIRPA) imager for evaluating intracranial oxygenation level, hemorrhage, and hematoma. A multi-iteration approach is proposed for the design development of the ncNIRPA imager. Due to the likelihood of open wounds in the head, lasers are deployed in the proposed ncNIRPA to support non-contact wide-area scanning of the Warfighter’s brain tissues. Eye-safe, short-duration laser pulses of two select wavelengths will be deployed to probe the excessive build-up of hemoglobin, an indicator of hemorrhage/hematoma, while an optical speckle-tolerant continuous-wave laser vibrometer will be deployed to read out the photoacoustic signatures generated by hemoglobin (oxygenated and deoxygenated). The proposed Brimrose laser vibrometer exhibits robust performance in the presence of speckles in the laser beams which tend to fail conventional laser vibrometers by causing uncontrolled signal drop-offs. Furthermore, the Brimrose laser vibrometer compensates automatically fluctuations in the standoff distance caused by, for example, involuntary bodily movement of the medic holding the ncNIRPA during triaging. Aiding operational flexibility, Photonics Integrated Circuit (PIC) will be incorporated into the ncNIRPA for light beam transport and manipulation. Researchers with expertise in PIC device design, modeling, and analysis have joined our team to tackle technical issues associated with PIC deployment. The PIC designs will be based on the design protocols of AIM Photonics where the designed device(s) will be built in its fab facilities in the Phase II program. |
| FA8649-23-P-0990 | AI-Powered Space Force Supply Chain Business Intelligence Tools | $74,900 | [ BRYANT ALLIANCE LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | DAF business intelligence operations have fallen substantially behind their industry partners, increasing contract award time and contract cost. Bryant Alliance is developing the Price IT platform to provide the DAF with business intelligence and project |
| FA8649-23-P-0001 | USAF Artificial Intelligence Pricing Platform - Price It | $749,707 | [ BRYANT ALLIANCE LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 12/09/2022 | 03/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Bryant Alliance, LLC (Santa Rosa Beach, FL) is a consulting firm specializing in assisting small and medium sized businesses in enhancing their business development capabilities and assisting in winning public and private contracts. We work with a variety of firms in a range of industries, from the most disruptive companies in Silicon Valley to Europe’s most innovative tech companies. Throughout our business development work with our clients, we received continual feedback for enhanced pricing assisting for commercial and Government projects. As a result, Bryant Alliance has created a revolutionary pricing tool that leverages modern Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to provide accurate, actionable dual use Cost Analysis for the United States Air Force and commercial clients. Our innovative Price IT software utilizes historical cost information on awarded Government contracts to provide the USAF with projected costs on current and future projects. Price IT will allow USAF users to accurately forecast project costs to ensure the maximization of budgets and ensure that contract prices are fair and reasonable. |
| FA8649-23-P-0332 | Price IT – Algorithm and Business Analytic Tool Development | $74,756 | [ BRYANT ALLIANCE LLC] | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | USAF business intelligence operations have fallen substantially behind their industry partners, increasing contract award time and contract cost. Bryant Alliance is developing the Price IT platform to provide the USAF with business intelligence and projected costs on current and future projects. Bryant Alliance’s Price IT platform provides Artificial Intelligence to provide modern business analytics tools to USAF procurement professionals, potentially saving billions in contract costs. The business analytic tools will be developed in collaboration with Florida State University (FSU) to develop new business analytics for USAF acquisition professionals. The focus of our Phase I will be to conduct research with identified end users and customers to provide actionable feedback for developing algorithms and business analytic tools for the USAF. We will build the business analytic tools with FSU to modernize and improve business intelligence within the USAF, thus decrease contract award time and contract prices. |
| FA9453-23-P-A043 | Customer Functions Virtualization over Satellite Terminals | $149,583 | BRYKA SKYSTOCKS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SF224-0012 | 03/22/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The current shift toward the virtualization of net-work infrastructure components enables a dynamic instantiation, deployment and configuration of virtual network functions (VNFs), which can be offered “asa-service” to multiple tenants, thus enabling 5G a |
| FA8649-23-P-0660 | Electric Mobility Operations Vehicle (E-MOV) | $74,844 | BUNKER SUPPLY CO LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/28/2023 | 07/27/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Bunker Supply's Electric Micromobility Operations Vehicle (E-MOV) is a versatile, reliable, efficient, and sustainable mobility solution that can meet the unique needs of both defense and non-defense customers. E-MOV satisfies the Air Force's Operational |
| FA8649-23-P-0791 | Ensuring Situational Awareness in Extreme Cold Environments with REC-LT | $74,706 | BUNKER SUPPLY CO LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Bunker is a world-class system integrator, having developed hundreds of products for customers that has resulted in >$100M/yr in sales. Bunker will develop a weather-hardened product that will assure continuous situational awareness in extreme cold enviro |
| FA9451-23-P-A008 | Planar Antenna array for L-Band and S-Band ‘PALS’ | $149,921 | BRYKA SKYSTOCKS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0006 | 12/30/2022 | 09/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Bryka Skystocks LLC, an ITAR compliant woman owned small business supplying to DLA’s critical needs since 2010, in partnership with Georgia Institute of Technology proposes to develop a novel high-power circularly polarized antenna array, especially, for directed energy efforts. Our goal will be to deliver a solid design and simulation results for a high-gain high-power dual CP antenna array suitable for directed energy effort at US Air Force. This initial phase encompasses a design study to identify the appropriate antenna architecture, construct a model for the array, design the feed antenna, simulate performance under 1 GW of pulsed power, and execute preliminary analysis of the shock/vibration performance. This antenna array will meet the MIL-STD-810g shock and vibration, handle an input pulse with FWHM of 10 ns, capable to radiate L- and S-band simultaneously. The robust antenna array design will offer a gain of at least 21 dB at 1.1 GHz (L-Band) and radiate with gain of at least 27 dB at 2.8 GHz(S-Band). The antenna will also fit with a volume less than 1.5 cubic meters. Phase 1 modeling and simulation efforts will provide and address the following performance metrics: Antenna polarization, axial ratio, center frequency, bandwidth, volume, footprint, feed structure, power handling capability, realized gain, beam patterns in two cardinal planes, side lobe levels, and efficiency. The deliverable is a working antenna array design with a low-cost 3D printing manufacturing process using EOS M290 Selective Laser Sintering Printers at Bryka's facility to produce a functional prototype for the Air Force in Phase II. |
| N68335-23-C-0219 | Full Phase II Proposal for Flight Deck Tie Downs | $600,000 | [ BURCHELL PROFESSIONAL GROUP, INC] | SBIR | Phase II | N211-057 | 02/28/2023 | 03/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The US Navy DDG-51 Arleigh Burke Class Destroyer fleet currently utilizes AISI 4130 steel tie downs which metal is highly reactive to seawater which without protective coatings would rapidly corrode severely and need immediate replacement as well as unexpectedly fail causing possible loss of life and loss of high value equipment as well as having very poor resistance to high heat and cold. Consequently, Burchell Professional Group Inc. proposed a new innovative Inconel 718 tie down turnkey drop in and play solution that would cost effectively easily be integrated into the fleet and represents a significant upgrade in capabilities for the fleet while lowering overall costs related to these tie downs by 95 percent and never need replacement or any maintenance during the 40 plus years of service life. |
| N68335-23-C-0365 | Autonomous, Long-Duration, Directional Ambient Sound Sensor | $146,499 | BTECH ACOUSTICS LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T021 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | BTech proposes a directional hydrophone for acoustic noise measurements for various host platforms including floats, gliders, and observation buoys. The BTech design is provided in Phase I report including sensing concept and configuration, mechanical packing, power consumption, communication interfaces, sensor (re)calibration methodology, algorithms to extract the information content of the ocean sound, and estimated data rate(s). |
| FA8649-23-P-0299 | Bullseye Target Retrieval System | $74,948 | [ BULLSEYE TARGET SYSTEMS LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Security Forces is transitioning to a new Weapons Qualifications Course that will significantly increase the number of iterations that Defenders conduct at the firing range. Going forward, all personnel will receive firearms training on a monthly/quarterly basis (as opposed to annually) at outdoor ranges with distances of 25 - 400 meters. Bullseye Targets Systems LLC has developed the Bullseye Target Rover (BTR), the world’s first outdoor robotic target retrieval system. The BTR is a reliable and easy-to-operate system designed to send and retrieve a target anywhere the shooter wants from 0 - 400 meters on an outdoor range. This will save the Air Force hundreds of man-hours and millions of dollars per range per year, which will allow for more effective and cost-efficient training. The Bullseye Target Rover advantage can be measured in four ways: added safety, increased training throughput, increased proficiency and cost-effectiveness. |
| N68335-23-C-0230 | Naval Aircrew Emergency Armor Release (NACEAR) | $795,183 | BUNKER SUPPLY CO LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N211-004 | 03/13/2023 | 03/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Bunker Supply Co. proposes a unique emergency release system that can selectively shed hard plate armor from the survival vests of combat rotorcraft operators during emergency in-water survival situations. This will afford rotary wing pilots and crew members additional buoyancy by jettisoning dense armor plates without losing their vests and critical gear thereto attached. It will assist in keeping the operator buoyant while other lifesaving devices are deployed, or while other escape and rescue options are identified. Current quick-release designs are gravity-based, and are ill-suited to waterborne operation. Existing solutions often require multiple pulls and re-gripping of a release strap, which is difficult and unreliable in high-stress survival situations. The emergency release system that Bunker Supply Co. proposes is deployed by a single-handed, single-stroke continuous motion. It is manually-operated to prevent automatic actuation in situations where armor ejection could be counterproductive (e.g. combat environments). The solution is easily adaptable as a retrofit fit to currently fielded vests, or the technology can be integrated a the OEM level for new deployments. |
| W911NF23P0023 | Holistic Health and Fitness Readiness Kit | $199,999 | [ BURCHELL PROFESSIONAL GROUP, INC] | SBIR | Phase I | A234-005 | 05/02/2023 | 08/02/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | During phase 1 research an innovative, low cost, low maintenance, high strength, semi-portable infrastructure (building and foundation) for a Holistic Health and Fitness (H2F) Soldier Performance Fitness Center (SPFC) will be designed and developed in close cooperation with the Army's Technical Point of Contacts (TPOCs) during a 3 month Period of Performance (PoP). Burchell Professional Group Inc. is proposing an innovative, low cost, semi-portable SPFC modular building design with a traditional slab foundation. The building will be composed of modules built and assembled in a factory which will be designed to be delivered as preassembled modules that are quickly bolted together onsite greatly speeding construction and reducing costs as well as building being easily disassembled for moving to new locations as separate modules. Each module will come with all systems installed such as insulation (sound and thermal), internet components, electrical wires, plumbing as well as HVAC components. A traditional slab foundation will be imbedded with water supply lines, sewage drain pipes, and attaching hardware (studs) to bolt the wall sill plats and beam modules to for integral strong construction. Likewise, the roof structure will be all be composed of steel roof truss modules again assembled by bolting together. A durable stainless steel roof system tops the roof trusses and will ensure a long service life exceeding all requirements. The primary construction of most structural components will be of steel for long maintenance-free life and excellent strength to resist all types of loads as well as being fireproof and insect resistant.The exterior siding will also be composed of stainless steel sheets that are corrogated for additional strength. The doors are the exception which will be constructed of hard anodized aluminum to meet Army requirements. High efficiency, durable LED diffuse lighting fixtures will illuminate the SPFC throughout without causing glare. All flooring materials and all surface textures will be in compliance with all requirements. All systems and fixtures will be in compliance with the stated Army's requirements. In summary, steel will be the primary construction material used to construct the SPFC in easily bolted together module form because besides providing superior strength, superior fire resistance, superior maintenance-free properties compared to wood, steel also has more reliable and stable strength properties allowing for optimized design reducing material costs, and is more suited to mass production of modules to drive down costs by dramatically reducing one of the single largest cost - labor. No custom fitting and cutting of structural members onsite will be required! This innovative SPFC building composed of primarily steel modules bolted together with all systems imbedded in them will dramatically reduce costs (labor and material) and greatly speed construction while meeting or exceeding all the Army's requirements. |
| FA8649-23-P-0404 | Flexible Fuel Electron Source for Space Propulsion Systems | $74,979 | BUSEK CO., INC. | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/08/2022 | 02/08/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Busek and WPI propose to develop a cathode electron source for spacecraft ion drives that are fueled by a variety of reactive and semi-reactive molecular propellants. The cathode may be fueled by ASCENT (AFM-315e), iodine (I2), air (N2 + O2), carbon dioxide (CO2) as well as other substances. The proposed flexible fuel cathode is an extension of existing low current cathode technology that is presently being marketed for NASA, DoD, and commercial missions. The flexible fuel electron source would neutralize the ion beam created by a Hall effect Thruster or Gridded Ion Thruster. Hall thrusters and gridded ion thrusters are forms of spacecraft electric propulsion (EP). The exhaust velocity or specific impulse of these thrusters may be up to an order of magnitude higher than possible with a chemical rocket, greatly increasing spacecraft fuel efficiency. In Phase I Busek will establish requirements in cooperation with the government stake holder. WPI will take the lead in developing a global model of the electron source, which will be instrumental in scaling up the technology and adapting it to multiple propellants. The team will also develop a technology development plan and a Phase II work plan. Finally, Busek and WPI will document their results in a report. In Phase II, Busek and WPI will develop and test a flexible fuel cathode at current levels up to 3 – 4 A, which is enough to enable a variety of single fuel small spacecraft EP systems. |
| FA8649-23-P-1091 | Qualification of a Satellite on Umbilical Line (SOUL) System for Active Debris Removal (ADR) | $1,249,762 | BUSEK CO., INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/25/2023 | 06/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Busek Co. Inc has created and patented a tethered spacecraft (s/c) system called SOUL (Satellite on Umbilical Line). Under various sponsorships including the U.S. Air and Space Force, and NASA, five (5) progressively more capable versions of SOUL have be |
| FA8649-23-P-0513 | Specialized Physical Readiness thru for Special Operations Units | $1,249,858 | Barbell Logic Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/14/2023 | 11/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Barbell Logic provides three main services: online personal training solutions for clients that connect professional strength and conditioning coaches to clients worldwide, education and certification for strength and conditioning coaches, and a turnkey |
| W51701-23-C-0201 | Silent Mobility Vehicle Cooling for HMMWV | $1,693,393 | Bascom Hunter Technologies, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | A224-006 | 09/05/2023 | 09/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-1216 | Flexible Fuel Electron Source for Space Propulsion Systems | $1,249,708 | BUSEK CO., INC. | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 08/03/2023 | 05/02/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Busek and Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) are developing a cathode electron source for spacecraft ion drives that are fueled by a variety of reactive and semi-reactive molecular propellants. The cathode may be fueled by ASCENT (AFM-315e), iodine (I2 |
| N68335-23-C-0381 | Reversible Replenishment Air Conditioning System (R2 ACS) | $139,249 | Bascom Hunter Technologies, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-064 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Latent heat loads, associated with the condensation of water vapor in outside air, impose up to 40% added cooling demand on naval vessel air conditioning systems, which in turn significantly increases the power consumption of the system. This Technical Proposal is to develop and verify a novel means of reducing the latent loads to significantly reduce the power consumption of ship-based air conditioning systems. The design presented herein couples several novel technologies to remove moisture from local ambient (maritime) air before it is introduced into the air conditioning system to provide fresh air ventilation to inhabited compartments. These technologies are: Nano-scale porous titanium membranes to selectively separate water vapor from dry air Assembly and manufacture of a high-density membrane tube array that minimizes the footprint of the water separator with low air-side pressure loss A high-efficiency, variable speed vacuum pump to remove collected water vapor for discharge outside of the air conditioning system In Phase I Bascom Hunter, an aerospace/defense manufacturer of high-efficiency thermal management components and systems, will partner with ADMA Products, a specialty manufacturer of advanced engineering materials, to design and test a proof-of-concept water removal system. The design will consider the unique requirements and constraints imposed by installation of the system in a shipboard environment, including corrosion resistance, tolerance of potential contaminants in the fresh air intake stream, and applicable shock and vibration loads. Later Phases will optimize the design based on the subscale testing, and evaluate the full scale system over the full range of expected operating conditions and environmental loads. |
| SP4701-23-P-0029 | Navy Vacuum Pump (PN NV1037273-1) Replacement | $98,852 | Bascom Hunter Technologies, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | DLA231-001 | 07/13/2023 | 01/10/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Bascom Hunter Technologies is proposing to be added as an approved source of supply for the Navy's Vacuum Pump PN NV1037273-1. Bascom Hunter Technologies has the Engineering Expertise and Manufactring capability to design and manufacture High Speed, High Performance, Tight Tolerance, air moving devices. Bascom Hunter has significant experience with the selection, design, testing and manufacture of various pumps and their associated motor/ motor controller drive systems. This experience allows Bascom Hunter to make qualified design decisions for material selection, detailed design, size and performance related to a replacement vacuum pump for the Navy. |
| FA8650-23-C-9310 | Personnel Resupply Inventory Manager and Expeditor (PRIME) | $1,249,949 | Battle Sight Technologies LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D002 | 01/30/2023 | 04/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Battle Sight envisions a resupply solution, “PRIME” (Personnel Resupply Inventory Manager and Expeditor), that is enabled by “Big Data” data science and algorithms that accurately, and with a high degree of certainty, identify the required supplies, equipment and gear an IP needs to survive and evade capture for extended periods of time and affect successful rescue. Proprietary data algorithms process data points ingested from disparate data sets including the following: Biometrics / Human Performance Injury Status Current Inventory / Expendable Supplies Weather Terrain Natural Resources Expert Curated / Historical Recommendations |
| SP4701-23-P-0093 | Army Wire Harness Replacement Activity | $156,946 | Bascom Hunter Technologies, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | DLA232-001 | 09/29/2023 | 09/29/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | The United States Army has requested interest parties submit proposals to become approved suppliers for three wire harness assemblies, part numbers 10033768, 10024853, and 12574943. The past manufacturers of these products will no longer produce the item. Without a viable supply chain in place, the readiness of the Army could be placed at risk. Bascom Hunter Technologies, Inc has the technical and manufacturing capabilities to develop and manufacture the requested wire harness assemblies. Bascom Hunter’s objective for Phase I is to present our capabilities and become an approved source of supply for the wire harness assemblies. |
| FA8649-23-P-1019 | Advanced Rescue Maritime Streamers (ARMS) | $1,220,773 | Battle Sight Technologies LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/20/2023 | 06/20/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | 0130 Hours Local Time, 300 miles NW of Manilla, Philippines, South China Sea An F22 pilot has ejected after providing offensive counter air operations over the East China Sea. The Kuroshio Current, which is consistently flowing north/northeast leaves the |
| FA8649-23-P-1262 | Elevated Autonomous Rescue Signal and Antenna (EARSA) | $1,246,979 | Battle Sight Technologies LLC | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 09/26/2023 | 06/27/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The rescue of isolated personnel is significantly hampered by the limitations of signaling devices in fauna defined landscapes. Beacons, smoke, and flares are unable to penetrate dense vegetation canopies effectively and heavy overgrowth limits line-of-si |
| FA8649-23-P-0357 | Elevated Autonomous Rescue Signal and Antenna | $74,953 | Battle Sight Technologies LLC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Technical Abstract: EARSA is an autonomously operated solution for elevating critical rescue signaling capability 150 feet - above problematic jungle canopy or unstable ocean conditions - to assist personnel recovery efforts. A dual capability includes elevating a communications antennae to the same height for improved line of sight radio operability. Overview: The Phase I effort will focus on establishing specific performance requirements for EARSA and surveying feasible vehicles to deliver the capabilities aloft in support of existing end-user groups (ACC, AFRL, LCMC). Technical Merit: EARSA utilizes established off-the-shelf consumer technologies to addresses the pervasive challenge of signaling rescue assets from deep woods or jungle where tree canopy obscures flares, beacons and radio signals or ocean surfaces that create significant surface clutter for spotters or optical devices. The solution is further de-risked by a massive addressable market for the capability in the global commercial maritime and aviation rescue device industry. Team: Battle Sight/Sinclair team have demonstrated experience in autonomous platforms and a strategic focus on building and commercializing signal and communication products for isolated personnel and combat search and rescue mission sets. Commercialization: Battle Sight will commercialize EARSA as a listed product in the GSA catalog for DoD government purchases and through dedicated distribution relationships for global civil aviation and maritime rescue markets with combined size over $9B. |
| SP4701-23-P-0066 | Engaging the Manufacturing Industrial Base in Support of DLA‚Äôs Critical Supply Chains (DLA232-001) | $99,989 | Beacon Industries, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | DLA232-001 | 08/31/2023 | 08/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Coupling, Shaft is a mechanical component used to connect two rotating shafts together, allowing the transmission of power and torque. It helps to minimize the effects of misalignment, vibration, and shock and reduces the stress and wear on the connected shafts and their bearings. The Coupling, Shaft (NSN 3010-01-679-7883) listed in Small Business Innovation Program website is an aviation critical safety item used in TF33. Beacon would like to utilize this opportunity to support DLA to supply this part at market competitive price with shorter lead time. Beacon can validate the available TDP by reverse engineering the part to review and modify the TDP and manufacture the part to meet DLA’s supply needs. |
| SP4701-23-P-0041 | Engaging the Manufacturing Industrial Base in Support of DLA’s Critical Supply Chains | $99,915 | Beacon Industries, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | DLA231-001 | 07/27/2023 | 07/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | The Oshkosh M1070 is a US Army tank transporter tractor unit that is also used in the military for various operations and military drills. It is a powerful tractor truck with an 8x8 drive configuration and advanced features such as an electronic engine control system to ensure maximum efficiency at all times and an 'air ride' rear suspension to ensure all axles remain in contact with the ground at all times while smoothing out the worst round terrain shocks to the chassis frame. The wheels and the subcomponents of these trucks undergo tremendous load because of their operating terrain. So, they need to be properly checked, maintained, and replaced to keep them mission ready. Since the Truck was introduced 25 years ago, the availability of spare parts is a crucial issue since the supplier of sub-components no longer produces the parts. So, there is a need for a supply of these critically available spare components to keep equipment functional. The HUB, WHEEL, VEHICULAR, (NSN 2530-01-359-1353) listed on Small Business Innovation Program website is an item used in M1070, Heavy Equipment Truck Tractor to connect the wheel assembly into driving axles. Beacon would like to utilize this opportunity to support DLA to supply this part at a market-competitive price with a shorter lead time. Beacon can manufacture this part from available TDP (Technical Data Package) or Reverse engineer the part to create TDP and manufacture the part to meet DLA’s supply needs. |
| FA5606-23-P-0061 | ATC for Small CTKs | $179,878 | Beacon Industries, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0016 | 08/30/2023 | 08/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Tool tracking systems are deployed in mission-critical environments that cannot afford the FOD and FME risks that come with relying on employees to manually track and record the hand tools, power tools, and equipment they use throughout the day Technician |
| FA8649-23-P-0974 | FFAMT - Fabrication Flight Aircraft Maintenance Trainer | $74,773 | BetaFlix, Inc. | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Need to add info |
| FA8649-23-P-0975 | Dental Simulator -AI/ML Enhanced Virtual Dental Experiences Trainer | $74,982 | BetaFlix, Inc. | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Dental simulator with haptics can significantly improve the training experience for dental practitioners. The realistic, immersive tactile feedback provides learners with invaluable skills and experience to supplement traditional training methods. It is n |
| HR001123C0106 | Robust operations of ultra-high throughput cell lineage tracking for rapid bioengineering and pathogen detection | $1,496,610 | [ Bifrost Biosystems, Inc.] | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-28 | 05/22/2023 | 05/22/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Bifrost Biosystems – a recently formed biotech spin-out from Harvard University – here presents a platform for ultra-high throughput and ultra-high information screening of cell lineages. The basic platform involves individual lineages growing and dividing in narrow dead-end trenches that open into a feeding channel with flowing media. The media feeds the cells diffusively, and also washes away excess progeny to maintain a linear mini-colony of constant size. We have built over 1,000 different types of such devices, have tracked individual cell lineages for over 700 consecutive generations, have achieved imaging throughput of over 1,500,000 parallel lineages with sufficient resolution to track individual cells, and can image from 10-150X magnification, even with sub-diffractive microscopy. We have successfully used 150 different organisms on this platform, from some of the smallest bacteria all the way to human stem cells and can also grow different kinds of cells together to study interactions. We further developed many additional enabling features within this platform, including: non-intrusive and pristine live cell retrieval post-imaging, selective optical killing of cells, in situ genotyping of every lineage on chip, single-cell longitudinal time series with scRNA-Seq, 96-well drug screening formats where each well has 10,000 cell trenches, concentration gradients for dose-response curves, the possibility of interfacing with droplets, and the ability to run large screens for structured arrayed libraries in addition to pooled ones. The platform has also accurately identified and characterized bacteria, based on hyperspectral imaging, microscopic growth profiles, and quantitative phase microscopy. These features all worked well on a single type of platform in an academic lab setting, where platforms were run and maintained by the teams of world-experts that developed them. Now we propose to bring these capabilities to a broader audience of government labs, academic institutions, and possibly the private biotech sector. Many core aspects of the platform must be standardized and streamlined, so that instruments can run every day and be operated by end-users who have little training. This will require an integrated fluid handling system, ideally stand-alone reusable cartridges, a wide range of optimized microfluidic growth chips for the full range of organisms used, and an integrated platform of algorithms to extract and analyze the TBs of data that are produced every day. Here we propose the necessary steps for such an integrated platform, which in 24 months will be ready for in depth evaluation in the laboratories of transition partners. |
| SP4701-23-C-0066 | REPLACING PLASTIC WITH BIODEGRADABLE PACKGING IN FOOD SERVICE | $1,000,000 | Biomass Energy Systems, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | DLA211-003 | 09/18/2023 | 03/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | This proposal follows the DLA SBIR Phase 1 Contract SP4701-21-P-0075. It seeks resources to move to Phase 2 so that the lessons learned and data developed in Phase 1 will further expand on the solution, including the field demonstration for replacing the plastic packaging in food service with the biodegradable Cellulosic Bio-Polymer (CBP) packaging to address military needs. Phase 1 was a great learning lesson because of the extraordinarily active engagement of the DLA Project Management Team. The DLA team availed expertise from various food-service related resources within the military, including firsthand knowledge about difficulties encountered by the military in the European Union (EU) arising from the ban on waste plastic disposal in landfills. It was very clear from their visits to the EU that the U.S. businesses were losing the edge rapidly to foreign competition because of the slow transition from plastic to biodegradable packaging. The approach proposed by Biomass Energy System Inc. (BESI) of combining biodegradable packaging with its onsite reuse to generate renewable energy by generating hot water was highlighted as the most attractive option for this transition. This avoided sending biodegradable packaging to the landfill where it would have emitted methane, the most potent of the greenhouse gases. All objectives and goals for Phase 1 were achieved. These included the demonstration of the seamless transition of plastic to CBP in food packaging without affecting its taste, freshness, delivery, distribution, and storage. Phase 1 verified the complete biodegradability of the CBP packaging and demonstrated its capability for reuse as renewable energy in a circular economy. Phase 2 will demonstrate a complete solution for the replacement of plastics with CBP packaging in food service at a scale commensurate with a small military installation located Outside of the Continental United States (OCONUS) that also includes the conversion of spent CBP packaging into renewable energy, thereby avoiding its disposal into the landfills. This includes manufacturing the CBP packaging for specific food items that are commonly supplied and consumed by the military; acceptance testing of this alternative packaging by the vendor and by the military; demonstration of how this packaging would revert to the circular economy in the form of renewable energy; plan for complete transitioning of plastic packaging to CBP packaging for all food items supplied and consumed by the military; and planning for making this complete solution commercially available to the military quickly. The Phase 2 team includes manufacturers of CBP packaging, turnkey technology providers, the academic institution having significant influence in research, development, and marketing, as well as military agencies to facilitate not only the demonstrations for the benefit of the military but also assist in transitioning the products and the technologies into the military installations. |
| FA8649-23-P-0542 | High Performance Next Generation Targets | $1,249,901 | Blue Force Technologies, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/08/2023 | 02/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As the adversaries of the United States continue to challenge our supremacy in the air, the Department of Defense also advances its capabilities in development and production of counterair munitions. This solution provides a novel way to conduct specifica |
| FA8649-23-P-0618 | Low-Cost Programmable Cognitive EW Countermeasure | $74,955 | Blue Force Technologies, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Current aircraft countermeasures, such as chaff, flares and jammers often have ‘fixed’ capabilities and are very hard to adapt to emerging threats. Our pacing threat nations have rapidly developed and expanded their abilities in the RF spectrum. Their w |
| N68335-23-C-0714 | AMMO - Phase II | $1,003,802 | [ Breault Research Organization, Inc.] | SBIR | Phase II | N221-075 | 09/21/2023 | 07/07/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Breault Research is proud to provide our Navy customer with the technology and tools to design, produce and field a true Twenty First Century warhead. Breault’s Adaptive Multi-Mission Ordnance (AMMO) incorporates state-of-the-art lethality materials and flexible configurations to optimize warhead effectiveness in a smaller form factor. Breault’s unique design and production processes provide the Navy with a clear path forward to successfully field enhanced lethality in a reduced form factor that is easily scalable for integration into a wide range of weapons. The AMMO design incorporates new, innovative warhead configurations leveraging existing and innovative reactive materials. AMMO brings novel design and manufacturing tools to save on cost, reduce size and weight while significantly increasing warhead damage on target. The goal of the AMMO design is to deliver equivalent or greater weapon effects as currently fielded weapons (e.g., Harpoon, LRASM for anti-ship) in a smaller, lighter form factor. The foundation of our technical approach will be to pursue partnerships with DoD prime contractors, including Lockheed Martin Missiles & Fire Control (MFC) and Boeing Phantom Works who have both provided Letters of Support for our Phase II effort. In addition, collaboration with Naval Warfare Centers, including NSWC Indian Head and NSWC Carderock to assist in development and integration of AMMO technology for the Navy’s anti-ship mission will be vitally important. Figure 5 from our Phase I Final Report summarizes the results of our Phase I work which was focused on potential development of a lighter 750 lb warhead replacement for LRASM that incorporates AMMO technology. The Figure shows multiple possible paths of AMMO future development interest, expressed by the LRASM Program (Lockheed), as well as Harpoon, OASuW & HALO Programs (Boeing PW). The first task for our Phase II work will be to determine the best path forward for AMMO development based on Prime Contractor continued interest, requirements and support coupled with ONR/USG direction, coordination and recommendations. AMMO technology is versatile, flexible and adaptable to a wide range of payload options. Our point of departure for Phase II tasking will start from the Phase I results and down-select to the AMMO-4C Multi-Purpose design configuration. |
| FA8649-23-P-0028 | RoboEYES Immersive Stereoscopic Visual Sensor System | $1,249,400 | C360 TECHNOLOGIES INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 11/17/2022 | 07/18/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | C360’s RoboEYES Stereoscopic Immersive robotic sensor system provides human-centric vision at a safe standoff distance, enabling precise and articulate control of robotic tools. It is designed to seamlessly recreate natural human vision, reducing mission time and increasing mission success rate. Furthermore, it is equipped with alternate, deterministic ranging sensors to enable the precise aiming of IED disruptors. It is also further empowered with C360s real-time frame-by-frame replay system—a digital time-machine—to provide EOD team leaders with advanced situational awareness prior to approaching any scenario. |
| FA8649-23-P-0141 | RVS3 - Multi-Function Range Scoring, Operations Management, and Safety Visual Sensor System | $74,409 | C360 TECHNOLOGIES INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Within this proposal, C360 would like to investigate the use of our industry leading, single-optic immersive imagery system in the functional role of range scoring and base safety and security. C360 has built an image processing pipeline on the idea of one-many content distribution, specific to each user's needs. Our imaging systems collect full hemispheres of information at very high pixel densities (60MP), equivalent to about 30 HD video streams. This imagery is paired with a real-time replay engine, allowing each user to manipulated their view in both the time and space domains. When extrapolating this ideology to range scoring and base security, single installation of these sensor systems could be used by multiple different base functions, specific to their needs. |
| FA8649-23-P-0544 | StrikeLink: Modernized HF for Rapid Global Strike | $1,249,906 | CALIOLA ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/09/2023 | 02/27/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) is entrusted with our Nation’s most powerful weapons. Their long-range bomber fleet provides the Nation effective deterrence and, when called upon, rapid global strike. This rapid global strike capability is predica |
| FA8750-23-C-0514 | Message Passing Algorithms for Hierarchical Planning & Scheduling | $999,998 | CALIOLA ENGINEERING, LLC | STTR | Phase II | AF21B-T001 | 02/28/2023 | 02/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In this STTR, Caliola and the University of Southern California (USC) are jointly exploring the application of message passing algorithms (MPA) to solve complex combinatorial optimization problems. In Phase I, we demonstrated for the first time that MPA-based solvers for multiple problems can be connected in a comprehensive architecture to solve a hierarchical planning problem that arises in air tasking order production. In the proposed Phase II effort, we plan to fully develop and release an open-source software suite for MPA-based optimization that is tuned to tackle hierarchical planning and scheduling problems that are too complex to be handled by traditional, monolithic solvers such as Google’s OR-Tools. We call our toolkit BP-OPT to emphasize its use of belief propagation. In Phase II, we will also integrate BP-OPT with Caliola’s AssuredConf product to solve an important emerging satellite communications beam assignment and antenna configuration problem. AssuredConf is an automated planning tool that we are developing to support Operation Plan development at the Combatant Commands. A major theme of our proposed work is the cross-pollination of MPA-based techniques from digital receiver design to combinatorial optimization. The Phase II effort will be led by Caliola’s Chief Scientist, Dr. Tom Halford. His doctoral work at USC established fundamental performance versus complexity tradeoffs for MPAs. At Caliola, he leads an interdisciplinary team that is developing planners for the next generation of Navy modems and Air Force weapons data links. The USC team will be led by Prof. Keith Chugg. He has made significant contributions to the development of iterative MPA-based solutions for digital receiver design, both at USC and at TrellisWare, where he is Chief Scientist. Recently, Prof. Chugg has turned his focus to machine learning, leveraging techniques from digital receiver design to accelerate model training. |
| FA9453-23-P-A035 | Approaching Non-Asymptotic FEC Limits for GNSS and Beyond | $149,976 | CALIOLA ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF224-0015 | 04/06/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The goal of this SBIR is to advance the state-of-the-art in forward error correction (FEC) coding in the very short block length regime. We seek code designs and decoding algorithms that can approach fundamental, information-theoretic limits for block sizes as short as 50 bits. Very short block length FEC is important in global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) and ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC). Tight bounds on FEC performance in the finite block length regime have been known since 2010. Whereas Shannon’s channel coding theorem hinted at capacity-achieving code construction techniques for very long block lengths, Polyanskiy, et al.’s results for very short block lengths provide no such guidance to the FEC practitioner. As of today, the information theory community understands the fundamental limits on coding in the very short to short block length regime, but we do not yet understand how to best approach those limits. This SBIR aims to close that gap between theory and practice. Our approach leverages two high-performance, low-complexity universal decoding algorithms. One was developed by the proposed Principal Investigator as part of his doctoral work at USC, the other was proposed recently by researchers at MIT. Whereas prior work focused on the application of these algorithms to existing codes (e.g., BCH and polar codes), we will design new codes in Phase I that are optimized for these algorithms, thereby unlocking powerful new families of scalable short and very short codes. In Phase II, we will develop flexible decoding architectures for implementation and demonstration in software-defined radio and user equipment. In Phase III, we will bring our designs to market for GNSS and URLLC applications. |
| N68335-23-C-0138 | Frequency Hopping Optimization (FHO) for Tactical Data Links | $1,774,454 | CALIOLA ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N203-150 | 04/05/2023 | 04/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The performance of Advanced Tactical Networking Waveforms (ATNW) is interference-limited, not noise-limited. ATNW network capacity can therefore be improved by increasing the amount of like-signal, co-channel interference than can be tolerated at the receivers. In this SBIR, Caliola Engineering is developing technology that will do precisely that. Our technical approach builds on powerful, trellis-based joint detection techniques that were initially developed to increase the capacity of Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) cellular networks. In Phase I, we adapted those techniques to ATNWs. Our modeling and simulation (M&S) results indicate that a joint detection receiver can tolerate 4 – 5 dB more total like-signal interference than the baseline. Information theoretic tools suggest that this translates to ATNW network capacity gains as large as 150 – 200%, which far exceeds the 25% increase targeted by the Navy for this program. In the proposed Phase II effort, we will develop, integrate, and test our joint detection (JD) receiver architecture in a series of increasingly sophisticated and operationally-relevant environments. |
| FA8649-23-P-0890 | Zero Trust Data Bus | $74,958 | CALIOLA ENGINEERING, LLC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Caliola and Stephenson Stellar Corporation (SSC) will develop, demonstrate, and commercialize a “bolt on” device that provides cybersecurity protection to avionics data buses without requiring any modifications to line-replaceable units (LRU) or weapons r |
| N68335-23-C-0205 | Proliferated Low Earth Orbit Positioning, Navigation, and Timing | $246,342 | CALIOLA ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N224-131 | 01/25/2023 | 02/20/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Across the Department of Defense, efforts are underway to develop robust alternatives to GPS for positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT). Caliola is developing one such GPS alternative for the Navy. Our Satellite Communications [SATCOM] Antenna Pointing for Positioning (SCAPP) solution leverages the pointing vectors produced by the Navy Multiband Terminal while tracking a satellite in geosynchronous (GEO) orbit. A key lesson learned from developing SCAPP is that uncertainty in satellite ephemeris is the dominant error source for positioning from SATCOM signals of opportunity. Proliferated low Earth orbit (pLEO) constellations offer a far more diverse and robust set of signals from which to calculate a PNT solution than GEO constellations. It is much more challenging to mount an anti-satellite attack against an entire constellation spanning hundreds or thousands of satellites. However, three design challenges make a pLEO GPS-denied PNT system more challenging than its GEO-based counterpart: maintaining (1) frequency and (2) time stability of the satellite clocks across a massive constellation, and (3) acquiring and predicting accurate orbits for hundreds or thousands of satellites. In this SBIR, Caliola and Advanced Space will architect and design an alternate PNT system that interfaces with the Navy’s GPS-based PNT Service (GPNTS) system. To address the aforementioned design challenges, our proposed architecture will build on Caliola’s SCAPP solution and on Advanced Space’s experience developing positioning and navigation solutions for cislunar space. |
| N68335-23-C-0696 | Automated High Frequency (HF) Communications Planner | $1,749,508 | CALIOLA ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N213-142 | 08/30/2023 | 08/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The goal of this SBIR is to develop an automated HF communications planner that enables legacy and future systems to leverage real-time ionospheric propagation information and high-fidelity prediction data. This will make HF communications easy, automated, and mission capable. In the proposed Phase II Base effort, we will focus on refining and integrating our automated HF communications planning construct with an existing PMW/A-170 Program of Record. This will be achieved by an iterative, spiral development process that relies on high-fidelity modeling and simulation. In the Option efforts, we will focus on integrating elements of our planning construct with two other SBIR-derived Caliola products. |
| FA8649-23-P-0049 | Containerized Software Defined Networking for Satellite Communications | $1,249,610 | CAMBRIAN WORKS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 10/20/2022 | 10/20/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In the proposed effort, Cambrian adapts the software of a commercial, scalable, resilient, low-latency satellite communications subsystem for rapid introduction into the Small Satellite Industrial Base. This directly supports defense use by enabling USSF distributed, difficult-to-defeat, constellation capabilities in mission areas such as Satellite Communications (SATCOM), Position Navigation and Timing (PNT) services, Missile Defense and Tracking, Weather Services, and Strategic Communications. The primary problem that the Containerized Software Defined Network for SATCOM solution addresses is improving the ability to “fight SATCOM” with the rapid integration of new software-defined capability. The adoption and rapid implementation of constellation networks will allow maintaining communications even in the face of adversary action, including mitigating Meaconing, Intrusion, Jamming, and Interference (MIJI). This challenge faces all SATCOM links, but especially “NewSpace” systems limited in size and power. This Direct to Phase II effort specifically complements Cambrian’s software defined networking developments by leveraging software containerization technology used for decades in the software industry to provide a safe and well-understood methodology to rapidly introduce new software functionality into already highly regulated and tested satellite flight software systems. Specifically, leveraging containerization, satellite providers can introduce new software without the need to re-write or integrate the new code into existing, proven software, while at the same time ensuring control of the new software’s resource utilization, access, and testing. In short, this is essentially a modularization of the code that makes it possible to swap, update, and trust new code, even with advanced capabilities such as networked communications. This is possible because already proven flight software maintains full control of the new code through control of the container and its interfaces. Hence, Cambrian has secured interest in this approach from at least four Small Satellite Industrial Base partners supporting SSC p-LEO mission development. This effort further meets DAF needs for the development of the USSF Small Satellite Industrial Base, thus directly advancing innovation in US small business manufacturing by enabling more satellite providers to participate. With a standardized approach to integrating new software, small satellite providers avoid custom and highly labor-intensive software revisions, updates, and distributions. This enables adoption of new capabilities, and reduces a dramatic risk in a future where software defined systems are already beginning to dominate. This is especially true for distributed, software enabled systems such as p-LEO constellations, for which the speed of software updates and cyber protection will determine the vulnerability to adversary software attacks and probes. |
| FA8649-23-P-0174 | Li-ion Cells for Arctic Operation | $74,885 | [www.camxpower.com CAMX Power LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | We have developed high-power, broad temperature range Li-ion cells that can meet Air Force Artic operational needs by incorporating our high-energy high-power cathode material, a fast-charge-capable anode, and cell designs and electrolyte formulations capable of ultra-low-temperature performance. We propose to adapt this Li-ion cell technology for powering USAF Arctic platforms. In Phase I the basic feasibility for our proposed approach to meet specific low-temperature operational requirements will be demonstrated. Also in Phase I, the feasibility demonstration will be used to solicit interest from the DAF, NORTHCOM, and NORAD. The cells in this project will initially be fabricated on CAMX Power’s cell prototyping line and will be transitioned in the future programs to the cell production line that we are now establishing. |
| FA8649-23-P-0625 | Lithium-ion Drop-in Replacement for Nickel-Cadmium Battery | $74,776 | [www.camxpower.com CAMX Power LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | CAMX Power will adapt, optimize, and produce its CELX-RC® Li-ion technology, based on our commercialized GEMX® cathode material opposite lithium titanate anode, as a drop-in replacement for legacy DAF NiCd batteries. In Phase I, the basic feasibility for |
| SP4701-23-C-0093 | Logistically Robust Li-ion 6T Batteries | $1,000,000 | [www.camxpower.com CAMX Power LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | DLA142-001 | 09/28/2023 | 09/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | CAMX Power proposes a Sequential Phase II program to follow on the Phase II DLA SBIR program “Logistically Robust, Long Life, High Power Rechargeable Battery”. In the initial Phase II program, we designed, built, and tested a 6T Li-ion battery prototype based on CAMX Power’s proprietary cathode and zero-volt (0V)-capable high power cell technology. The prototype and test modules were demonstrated to meet the energy, capacity, low-temperature cranking performance, and safety requirements for a type 1-A Li-ion 6T battery in the now superseded MIL-PRF-32565B specification. In addition, the initial prototype had the capability to be discharged to 0V multiple times to fully de-energize it for safe, unmaintained logistical management; and it had exceptional low-temperature capabilities, with both charging and discharging demonstrated with the battery equilibrated at -60°C. In the proposed two-year Sequential Phase II SBIR program, CAMX Power will further develop this novel 6T battery design to accommodate all the environmental, electrical, and mechanical ruggedness requirements of the current MIL-PRF-32565C type 1-A55 battery specification while retaining all the performance attributes demonstrated in the initial Phase II prototype. |
| W5170123C0047 | Structured Material for Enhanced Impact Protection of HGU-56/P Aviator Helmet | $1,730,297 | [www.camxpower.com CAMX Power LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | A214-032 | 02/08/2023 | 02/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0054 | Compact Air Compressor for Aircraft Active Flow Control | $999,394 | CANDENT TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATED | STTR | Phase II | N21A-T017 | 11/03/2022 | 10/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Candent Technologies is proposing to continue the development of its Phase I design of an advanced technology, electric driven air compressor for an aircraft Active Flow Control (AFC) system. The Candent Team, utilizing its extensive turbomachinery design and development experience, along with their Academic partner, who used their expertise and state of the art technology to design the electrical drive system, has completed an in-depth, extensive preliminary design that can meet all the program requirements. In the Phase II program, the Candent Team will finalize the system design, fabricate prototypes, conduct development testing to verify, validate, and refine the final system design, while advancing the technology to at least a TRL5/6 level. |
| N68335-23-C-0097 | Quiet Auxiliary Propulsion System | $239,655 | CANDENT TECHNOLOGIES INCORPORATED | SBIR | Phase I | N222-115 | 11/07/2022 | 03/04/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Candent Technologies has successfully developed a low cavitation, high efficiency, extremely low acoustic signature marine propulsor, and is proposing to apply this advanced technology to the design and development of a compact, efficient, electric driven, stowable/retractable, Quiet Auxiliary Propulsion System that will meet and likely surpass the requirements for the SOCR (and 11m RHIB, as well as similar small craft). In addition, Candent will use a highly innovative approach to provide a high efficiency, very compact, direct drive system with very low acoustic signature to complement the quiet advanced technology propulsor, as well as a state of the art fully integrated electronic controller and operator steering and control interface system, also tuned to mitigate and lower noise. |
| FA8649-23-P-0659 | Wireless Smart Thermal Protection System (TPS) for USSF Space Vehicles | $73,397 | CANOPY AEROSPACE, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | February 1, 2003, the Columbia Space Shuttle, traveling 18x faster than the speed of sound, was heading back to Earth. Upon re-entry, the space shuttle reached temperatures of up to 2691°F, and a critical failure of its Thermal Protection System (TPS) cau |
| FA8649-23-P-0401 | Thermal spray coatings for high throughput manufacturing of hypersonic thermal protection systems | $74,951 | CANOPY AEROSPACE, INC. | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/17/2022 | 02/20/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Canopy Aerospace proposes to strengthen the U.S. industrial base for high-temperature thermal protection system (TPS) materials through the development of a multi-material thermal spray coating system that can dramatically increase throughput while minimizing scrap rates regardless of geometrical complexity. Coating application represents a critical bottleneck within reusable and single-use TPS components across the space and hypersonics industries. Many key TPS components rely on skilled human operators to manually apply the final surface coatings and many of these cold spray treatments require multi-hour glazing cycles. During the Phase I project, Canopy will assess the feasibility of lowering TPS costs for aerospace use cases by applying flight-proven coatings to common TPS substrates using the thermal spray technique. The performance of the rapid coatings will be assessed through ablative torch testing followed by microstructural characterization. At the end of Phase I, Canopy will have carried out an initial demonstration of the thermal spray TPS coating concept (TRL 4), quantified the performance against test articles produced through legacy methods, and established USAF/USSF use cases. Canopy will identify the key stakeholders within Program Executive Offices, Air Force Material Command, and commercial partners who will likely sponsor our company for further partnerships and development into the next phase. Phase II will focus on optimizing the coating properties in preparation for a hypersonic arc jet testing campaign. In parallel, Canopy will automate the thermal spray system through the integration of a robotic arm to accommodate complex geometries. Once completed, the proposed technology will serve as a comprehensive manufacturing platform for automatically applying a wide spectrum of TPS coatings and potentially expand to demanding terrestrial applications. Business development will leverage the customer diligence from Phase I to establish primary stakeholders within the government and commercial sectors. |
| FA8649-23-P-1218 | Autonomous Robotic Coating for Thermal Protection Systems (ARCT) | $1,160,149 | CANOPY AEROSPACE, INC. | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 07/17/2023 | 07/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The commercial development of Thermal Protection Systems (TPS)- the material that protects spacecraft and hypersonic vehicles from extreme heat-has suffered a decade-long innovation drought after the conclusion of the NASA Space Shuttle Orbiter program in |
| FA8649-23-P-0902 | AI-enabled platform aiding Airmen in injury recovery, fitness attainment and health maintenance | $75,000 | CAMO PLATFORMS INC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Poor health and wellness among Air Force (AF) personnel is a concerning issue that affects the readiness of the USAF, and safety of those serving in the Air Force. Recent statistics from the 2021 DoD Health of the Force study indicate that a significant p |
| HDTRA223P0007 | Large Multi-Modal Scintillators | $167,215 | CAPESYM INC | STTR | Phase I | DTRA22D-002 | 08/10/2023 | 02/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Threat Reduction Agency | This work is focused on the development of fabrication technology for large form-factor scintillation crystals for multi-modal detection of radioactive sources, and development of mobile imaging and mapping instruments based on these large format scintillators. |
| HDTRA223P0001 | High Dose Rate Rugged GM Detector | $167,237 | CAPESYM INC | SBIR | Phase I | DTRA222-002 | 01/05/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Defense Threat Reduction Agency | Gamma dosimetry is an integral part of radiation safety and protection for a wide range of military operations. For these applications, Geiger Müller (GM) tube is used as the standard gamma dose rate sensor. The cost-to-performance metric for this sensor type has reached a plateau and new sensor materials are needed for the next generation of dosimeters. Recently there has been a vast development in solid state gamma detectors such as silicon photodiodes for dosimetry applications. However, these sensors have temperature sensitivity, non-linearity over a wide dose range and are not nuclear survivable for DoD environments. In this program, we will develop low-cost, high-accuracy rugged nuclear-survivable non-GM gamma dosimeters for DTRA applications. These dosimeters will be applicable to a wide range of doses from background to 100 Gy/hr, and will be operable at temperatures between -50 to 55°C. In phase I, we will demonstrate the operability of the sensors and optimize them to meet the specific performance targets. A dosimeter prototype using this optimal sensor material will be fabricated in Phase II and will be provided to DTRA for evaluation. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7100 | Innovative System for Growth of Large CdZnTe Crystals | $1,476,062 | CAPESYM INC | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-013 | 02/06/2023 | 02/05/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | This proposal seeks to demonstrate an innovative process for growth of CdZnTe crystal boules with properties that meet the stringent requirements of CdZnTe substrates for LWIR mercury cadmium telluride detectors, leveraging significant expertise of the proposing team in crystal growth of CdZnTe. The grown crystals will be fabricated into substrates which will undergo extensive in-house and end-user evaluation. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| FA8649-23-P-0643 | Miniaturized Terahertz Sensors for Air Force Imaging Applications | $74,693 | [ CAMBRIDGE TERAHERTZ INC] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/01/2023 | 08/01/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To address the Air Force, DoD, and broader society’s need for portable personnel screening solutions, Cambridge Terahertz is applying the first and only Terahertz radar imager that is completely solid state, with no moving parts. The radar imaging technol |
| W51701-23-C-0206 | CaptureCrete: Active, Permanent CO2 Capture and Storage for Concrete | $1,799,994 | CARBON LIMIT CO | SBIR | Phase II | A224-016 | 09/13/2023 | 03/20/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| N68335-23-C-0455 | Artificial Intelligence Based Ship Domain Autonomous Controller | $139,932 | CARDINAL ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-028 | 07/25/2023 | 01/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | An autonomous domain control system for US Navy surface ships that deconflicts, decomposes, and triages tasks in Hull, Mechanical, & Electrical (HM&E) control systems may reduce operator burden related to the monitoring, operation, troubleshooting, and recovery of HM&E systems. A domain control system in operation that can automatically adapt to novel environments from actual experience operating in these situations may improve long-term operations and sustainment of Navy surface combatants. However, for domain control systems to autonomously perform well under significant uncertainties in the system and environment for extended periods of time, the system must be able to learn and compensate for both internal and external changes in a trustworthy manner without significant external intervention. The Artificial Intelligence Based Ship Domain Autonomous Controller effort will address several key challenges necessary to confidently employ artificial intelligence for the operation of several interconnected systems necessary to meet the mission objectives of the ship. These challenges include but are not limited to the sufficiency of the sensor and signal data available on the ship, the rules of engagement between the human operator and the supervisory control system, and the trustworthiness of the commands and action from the artificial intelligence-based algorithms as they adapt to the changing environment. Cardinal Engineering and Applied Simulation Technologies will apply proven tools and techniques to solve these challenges and demonstrate the solutions in a proof-of-concept demonstration. The products and processes resulting from the Artificial Intelligence Based Ship Domain Autonomous Controller effort will demonstrate applicability and scalability to a more capable supervisory control system for US Navy ships, as well as for uses in other markets requiring improved safety, security, and operational effectiveness, such as industrial controls systems, self-driving automobiles, robotics, and other such control-intensive fields. |
| FA8649-23-P-0191 | Chaplaincy Technology | $74,934 | CARESTARTER TECHNOLOGIES INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | CareStarter Technologies Inc is a technology company focused on scaling and automating care management through the rapid delivery of information and resources to individuals in a position to render aid. The model is focused on increasing the operational effectiveness (OE) of individual chaplains such that it decreases the negative impact of frequent PCS-related turnover in the career field. This occurs by digitally optimizing the resource books, utilizing an accurate, vetted database, and the development of automated software which supports the receiving airman in learning and practicing habits which foster long-term resiliency. In this proposal, CareStarter seeks to impact the Air Force Travis AFB Chaplaincy through a pilot, followed by scaling to support all DAF Chaplaincies with Phase III commercialization. The Chaplain’s office is charged with the care of many ADSMs and ADFMs experiencing stress and hardship related to their military service. CareStarter has demonstrated significant savings on operational costs while dramatically scaling care management reach and impact with non-defense commercial customers within their EFMP Pilot. Many similar principals can be applied to the resourcing function of those chaplains tasked with helping families who find themselves in crisis situations. Adequate and reliable supportive resourcing can exponentially increase the efficacy of each chaplain. With a signed MOU with Travis AFB, CareStarter will accomplish the following: (1) Evaluate the current practice(s) for providing resiliency support through the chaplaincy. (2) Assess overall utilization, barriers to utilization, and potential improved positive outcomes with increased supportive resource referral assets. (3) Demonstrate how the CareStarter Platform can improve readiness and encourage behaviors which foster family resiliency and decrease supportive assistance need over the long-term. |
| FA8650-23-P-6481 | Multimedia BEND: Augmenting Bend Analytics with Visual and Audio Cues | $99,909 | CARLEY TECHNOLOGIES, INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF221-0028 | 01/03/2023 | 11/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Our objective is to design, develop and test the next generation of BEND analytics accounts for visual and audio cues. Grounded in psychology, sociology and cognitive science, we propose a principled approach that extracts from visual/audio channels both emotional cues for each of the primary emotions (e.g., excitement and anger), and community cues for common identities (e.g., family, friend, group). Visual, audio, and existing semantic cues will be used to estimate which BEND maneuvers are present. Reinforcing multimedia cues will increase the likelihood of the maneuver, and contradictory cues may indicate sarcasm or humor and thus the distortion or distraction BEND maneuvers. The focus on primary emotions and identities enables cross-cultural relevance and cross-platform applicability which will be tested using data from diverse regions and social media. The result of this effort will be new theoretically grounded scalable multimedia algorithms integrated with the existing BEND maneuver software, and increased accuracy in influence campaign assessment. Our second objective is to develop illustrative use cases and operational guidelines to support the warfighter in using these analytics. Meeting both objectives will support meaning making and decision making regarding influence, course of action assessment and forecasting of behaviors and events. |
| FA8649-23-P-0154 | Portable Air to Electricity Microgrid | $74,544 | [ CASTOR ENERGY] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Castor Energy, Inc. is a provider of clean, renewable energy generation platforms that enable the conversion of oxygen to electricity and water to provide a constant source of power in any environment. The Department of Defense (DoD) is facing its’ most austere environment in nearly three decades. The logistics of transporting and storing traditional fuel sources is becoming more and more contested. Castor Energy’s microgrid technology enables warfighters to use Earths most vast resource, oxygen, to power equipment and technology in any environment on the planet. Compressed air systems outperforms solar. Within the same dimensional application, size-wise, Castor Energy’s Air to Electricity and Water Microgrid is 3x more effective and efficient. Air is a 24/7/365 source of high density energy when harnessed using Castor Energy’s patented microgrid, dual-extraction energy and water technology. Utilizing solar as a secondary source of power, the AMPP enables both high and low density power extraction without ever having to burn fuel. A combined heat and power (CHP) system, the portable air to electricity and water mobile microgrid relates to the fields of electrical generation, transference and storage. The multiplier energy system generates and stores excess energy derived from 2 electrical energy sources - renewables and storable thermal energy-based electrical generation - to produce and store energy as compressed heat. Stored compressed heat is then redirected to generators to produce excess electricity. This excess electricity is stored in a second electrical storage. Benefits include: Stores 24/7-accessible compressed ambient gas, or air as storable heat, for anytime use Generates and stores excess cogenerative energies, where a secondary electrical production avenue is accessible for excess electricity around 90% efficiency Utilizes batteries to prevent intermittent periods Utilizes a series of high frequency reciprocating generators to produce excess high energy density onsite |
| FA8649-23-P-0068 | Enabling Sustainable Treatment of PFAS Compounds Via Dual-Stage Electrochemical Oxidation and Wafer-Enhanced Electro-Deionization | $73,708 | CATALYZEH2O, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), the “forever chemical,” can be found in aqueous film forming foams (AFFF) and serve as surfactants that spread the foam to deoxygenate and suppress the fire quicker than alternatives on the market without these fluorosurfactants. The downside to using these substances are the high cost of maintenance/labor to remove them from drinking water and adverse health effects on humans. The predicament that arises from PFAS is that there is not a cost efficient method of degrading the contaminants. The objective is to develop a risk mitigation and remediation technology that utilizes oxidation/reduction and wafer-enhanced electrodeionization (WE-EDI) to remediate PFAS to ensure the safety of military personnel, decrease labor cost, and increase operational uptime of DoD facilities by allowing continued use of stockpiles of legacy aqueous film forming foams (AFFF) while an effective alternative is being developed. This will be done by using synthetic PFAS solution and diluted AFFF, and altering variables such as voltage, catalyst composite, electrode type, and membranes, within the oxidation/reduction and WE-EDI system to determine the most effective at degrading PFAS. The ultimate success of this project will be determined by any consistent percent degradation of PFAS with the end goal of complete desulfonation and decarboyxlation of PFAS compounds to carbon dioxide and fluoride. Conventional wastewater treatment methods such as reverse osmosis, ion exchange resins, and granular activated carbon are unable to achieve complete degradation of PFASs, and many PFASs are resistant toward the majority of oxidants/reductants used in water treatment, due to the strength of C-F bonds and the high electronegativity of fluorine. Reverse osmosis can efficiently remove long chain PFASs but information is limited on the removal of short chain C3-C5 PFCAs and PFSAs. Ion exchange resins are generally more effective in removing PFSAs than granular activated carbon although both adsorbents have lower adsorption capacities for short chain compared to long chain PFASs. However, all of these nondestructive conventional techniques result in a concentrated PFAS residual which needs further treatment. Thus, the development of sustainable water treatment technologies that can work with tandem nondestructive techniques and are capable of energy-efficient PFAS degradation is a critical challenge to be addressed. Few other destructive technologies have shown the ability to mineralize the PFASs, namely sonolysis, UV photolysis, UV activation of S2O82- and KI, photocatalysis, and electrochemical (EC) treatments. EC treatment systems have the unique ability to completely mineralize PFASs through potential driven electron transfer reactions using a set of high performance electrodes such as mixed metal oxide (MMO), boron doped diamond, and Magneli phase suboxide ceramic anodes. |
| FA8649-23-P-0208 | Feasibility Study to Enable Hidden In Plain Sight (HIPS) Wind Turbine Technology to Augment Expeditionary Air Base Energy Self Sufficiency | $74,962 | CBC, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | CBC’s HIPS solution is a low-profile, omni-directional wind turbine that can be rapidly deployed and safely emplaced anywhere on an Agile Combat Employment (ACE) airfield without risking aircraft collisions, disrupting radar, nor requiring re-deployment to face the wind. The HIPS makes wind safe, practical, and scalable in ways that traditional wind energy is not. CBC will conduct an R/R&D feasibility study to identify ways to develop a customized low-profile wind turbine that can produce 1kW of power to to support equipment in austere, high wind and cold environments. |
| FA8649-23-P-1149 | Hidden In Plain Sight (HIPS) Wind Turbine Technology to Augment ACE Expeditionary Air Base Energy Self Sufficiency | $1,249,968 | CBC, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | CBC’s HIPS solution is a low-profile, omni-directional wind turbine that can be rapidly deployed and safely emplaced anywhere on an Agile Combat Employment (ACE) airfield without risking aircraft collisions, disrupting radar, nor requiring re-deployment t |
| FA8649-23-P-0756 | Digital Engineering to Automate the Test And Evaluation Master Plan to Expedite Air Force Acquisitions | $73,598 | CELERIS SYSTEMS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | On July 5, 2018, the DoD announced its Digital Engineering strategy to accelerate decision-making and delivery of weapon systems. Further, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall released the Operational Imperatives for the Air Force with effective and r |
| W51701-23-C-0195 | Modern Approaches to Minefield Breaching | $1,730,361 | CENITH INNOVATIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A214-048 | 08/15/2023 | 05/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0584 | Human Performance Program Adaptation of Our Elite Flight Platform for Aviator Performance and Retention | $1,249,458 | CENITH INNOVATIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/09/2023 | 03/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Our solution is an adaptation of our Elite Flight Platform to add and incorporate a new Human Performance AI/ML module tailored to specific USAF human performance initiatives including Optimizing the Human Weapons System (OWHS) and Comprehensive Readiness |
| W911SR-23-C-0021 | Cerebras Systems artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to process and categorize concurrent video security streams against critical national level objectives | $1,800,000 | CEREBRAS SYSTEMS INC | SBIR | Phase II | J201-CSO1 | 09/07/2023 | 08/13/2025 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | HQ AFSOC A2 and JSOC’s JIB have a national defense-related mission need in rapid, effective decision-making to support the nation’s elite special operators. The initial Cerebras’ super-computing Phase II successfully validated the system’s ability to util |
| SP4701-23-C-0048 | Domestic Manufacturing of Pre-Ceramic Polymers for Advanced Hypersonic Materials | $999,945 | [ CERMETECH LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | DLA222-007 | 08/16/2023 | 01/16/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | The goal of this Phase II project is to support the DOD supply chain with the installation of a pilot scale domestic manufacturing source for polycarbosilane (PCS) preceramic polymer for high temperature or hypersonic applications. CermeTech will work closely with a Tier 1 supplier of composite structures and components to test and verify key performance criteria and develop and demonstrate pilot production of >50kg of PCS per month. Key deliverables will include the installation of a 100L polymerization reactor and supporting distillation unit, the demonstrated capability to produce PCS, the delivery of representative samples of PCS for verification testing by the Tier 1 supplier utilizing well understood, high MRL processes and equipment, and a final report that demonstrates the PCS polymer meets the customers’ requirements. |
| FA8689-23-C-B004 | Sequential TACFI SBIR Phase II Open Phased Array Antenna | $1,799,789 | CESIUMASTRO INC | SBIR | Phase II | J201-CSO1 | 06/15/2023 | 05/05/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The purpose of this effort is to leverage CesiumAstro’s technology development under the Phase II SBIR (FA8649-21-P-0788 / Topic J201CSO1) in order to further develop and demonstrate a full-scale receive and transmit (Rx/Tx) active phased array communicat |
| W31P4Q-23-C-0037 | Meta-optic Image Differentiation for High-speed Target Recognition | $1,149,980 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | STTR | Phase II | A21C-T014 | 07/24/2023 | 07/24/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Fast and accurate object detection in the mid-wave infrared (MWIR) is critical for many DoD platforms including missile systems. Current object detection algorithms generally employ computationally heavy frontends to perform edge filtering tasks for keypoint identification and blob detection. Offloading the edge filtering tasks to optical components, which perform image differentiation or edge detection at the speed of light, offers the opportunity for significant latency reduction in these algorithms. In Phase I, the CFD Research team demonstrated the ability to design, fabricate, and test a metasurface optic (meta-optic) that successfully performs image differentiation of a scene. In Phase II, we will develop an optimized meta-optical system that performs multiple, parallel edge filtering computations in the optical domain to further reduce latency. We will employ end-to-end design methods that allow both the meta-optic and the digital backend to be co-optimized for improved, broadband performance. By the end of Phase II, we will demonstrate an advanced prototype that can be readily transitioned to relevant DoD programs in Phase III and beyond. |
| FA9101-23-P-B064 | Robust and Precise APTU Combustion Health Monitoring | $179,930 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0001 | 06/16/2023 | 03/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Robust and precise health monitoring of the APTU combustion chamber and supporting infrastructure is required. This system must possess multiple independent capabilities to detect and quantify instantaneous and ongoing erosion of critical copper, Monel, I |
| N68335-23-C-0362 | Mid-wave Infrared Metasurface Zoom Imaging Optics | $139,994 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T007 | 05/23/2023 | 11/20/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Infrared imaging systems mounted to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) are critical for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. While much progress has been made in miniaturizing the electronics/cooling package of these imaging systems, the optical components, which are typically large and bulky, can exceed size and weight requirements as well as increase the time needed to reach thermal equilibrium. This limitation is especially true for conventional zoom optics that require many refractive elements to correct aberrations over a continuous range of f-numbers. In this program, the CFD Research team will develop a mid-wave infrared (MWIR) zoom lens using metasurface optics (meta-optics). Meta-optics are composed of two-dimensional arrays of subwavelength elements that offer arbitrary control of phase, amplitude, and dispersion in a flat form factor. In Phase I, we will design, fabricate, and characterize a proof-of-concept MWIR meta-optic device. In parallel, we will tailor our validated inverse design software and end-to-end design codebase for this application to generate an optimized, broadband solution. In Phase II, we will develop an advanced prototype based on the optimized solution and perform relevant imaging measurements. Success in this program will drastically reduce the size and weight of infrared imaging systems, thus enhancing the situational awareness and lethality of the warfighter. |
| N68335-23-C-0421 | Multiple-order, Automatic mesh generation for multidisciplinary Analysis | $139,955 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T001 | 06/05/2023 | 12/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Multidisciplinary design, analysis, and optimization of hypersonic aircraft require automated adaptive mesh generation across disparate length scales. In the current state-of-the-art, geometry-aware adaptive meshing techniques are still lacking and the such geometric discrepancy can lead to significant errors in the prediction of critical physics, such as shock-boundary layer interaction and fatigue/damage in structures. To address this and improve upon the state-of-the-art, we propose to develop an innovative high-order (curved) and isogeometric common mesh generation toolkit to accelerate aircraft development. Phase I efforts will focus on a) demonstration of high-order mesh generation starting from an existing mesh composed of linear elements; b) the development of a geometry kernel to extract NURBS parameters from CAD geometry and to extract physics properties such as shocks, vorticity, and turbulence features from a fluid solver and stresses from a structural solver; c) development of an Application Programming Interface to allow the geometry kernel to interoperate with a simulation framework for a multidisciplinary analysis along with the local-to-global coupling for a representative aircraft structural component subjected to a given operational profile; d) demonstration of the autonomous capability for meshing complex CAD models including adaptive mesh refinement for capturing critical features; and e) development of a virtual reality Graphical User Interface. Phase II will further develop, demonstrate, and validate the prototype design. The source code will be provided for incorporation into larger DoD-developed tools and frameworks. |
| N68335-23-C-0237 | Radar Seeker Model for Hypersonic Weapon Full Life Cycle Support | $899,915 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | N211-097 | 02/14/2023 | 08/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Hypersonic vehicles provide the ability to pursue targets at very high speeds and long ranges, making them a critical offensive and defensive technology and a top priority of the DoD. To achieve precision guidance for these vehicles, improved radar guidance systems are needed to meet the accuracy and rate requirements for target detection and recognition in high-speed flight, but design and evaluation of these radar systems is complicated by the harsh operating conditions associated with hypersonic weapons. The Navy has identified a clear need for development of a computational modeling and simulation framework that specifically addresses mission-specific design challenges associated with hypersonic radar seeker subsystems. The overarching objective of the effort is development of a digital engineering-based framework integrating engineering and engagement modeling and simulation (M&S) tools for configurable evaluation of radar seekers in hypersonic environments to inform low-level design tradeoffs. In Phase I, the CFD Research team developed the Hypersonic Digital Engineering Testbed for Evaluating ConcepT Radars (HyDETECTR), a prototype digital engineering framework for capturing radar interference from the hypersonic environment through integrated engineering-level modeling and simulation tools. The team developed the digital engineering architecture and configurable radar modeling component of HyDETECTR, and demonstrated their application to resolution of radar interference for an antenna exposed to the hypersonic environment for a prescribed trajectory. Phase II will capitalize on the Phase I results and focus on extensions including; consideration of additional environmental effects to form more accurate interference models; integration with engagement-level simulation for evaluation against mission-specific criteria; integration with data analytics and design optimization tools to support design tradeoff studies; extensive technology validation; and insertion into Navy radar concept evaluation workflow. The Phase II final product will provide Navy scientists and engineers with a powerful digital engineering tool for supporting design-level trade studies as a standalone tool and as a subsystem in closed-loop 6DOF simulations. |
| N68335-23-C-0075 | Compliant Deployable Antennae for Hypersonic Vehicles | $139,986 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N222-128 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | The complex and harsh high-speed environment and associated high aerothermal and aerodynamic loads poses significant challenges to materials, structures and on-board sensors, such as antennae needed for tracking, telemetry, alternative navigation and communications. High surface temperatures require advanced materials, such as high-temperature tolerant superalloys, or traditional materials with environmental or thermal barrier coatings. In addition, plasma formed around the vehicle can interfere in certain frequency bands. Adding electronic subsystems to launcher-constraint reentry vehicles will cause challenges due to the low size, weight and power (SWaP) requirements for these components. For this program, the proposing team will develop and deliver compliant deployable antennae, that can operate in and are able to survive the hypersonic environment. In doing so, the team will leverage its long-history and significant experiences in modeling and simulation of the hypersonic environment, developing flight-proven, cutting-edge antenna hardware, and design of minimum SWaP compliant, developable or origami-type deployment mechanisms. Initially, and in Phase I, the concept of operations will be rendered. All potential antenna operational scenarios will be evaluated, including antenna operation for a small period of time, for periodic access, or after glide body separation. After all options are considered, the proposing team will start down-selecting best solutions in consultation with the Navy customer, in order to arrive at preliminary concept design(s) in Phase I base and refined concept design(s) in Phase I option, with the goal to manufacture prototypes in Phase II. |
| FA8651-23-C-A003 | Deep Learning Framework for Waveband-Specific Global Scene Background Generation | $1,250,000 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AF212-0002 | 12/19/2022 | 03/22/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed effort aims to develop a deep learning framework for waveband-specific and geospecific background generation to address US Air Force’s need to create a global, multispectral background scene database to support scene generation. Using deep neural networks and collections of Geographic information system (GIS) data, we propose to develop a tool for background database generation that automates the extraction scene background features within a user-defined Area of Interest (AOI) on Earth, leverages this information to resolve imagery at the apparent resolution of sensors rapidly changing altitudes, and streamlines the preparation of generated backgrounds scenes for processing in FLITES. The proposed solution requires the development of tools to interface with GIS databases for extraction of available vector and raster data; semantic segmentation models to classify land cover into material classes with known physical properties; and texture synthesis and super-resolution models to enhance imagery, simulating reductions in ground sample distance. The Phase II effort will focus on capability extension of algorithms developed in Phase I, large-scale GIS data curation, optimization of algorithms for accuracy and efficiency, maturation of the software tool to enable compatibility and integrability with FLITES, extensive verification and validation, and technology insertion into Air Force workflows. |
| FA8650-23-P-6474 | A 5th Percentile FE Female Model for Predicting Injury Biomechanics during Dynamic Loading Conditions | $149,914 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | AF221-0017 | 12/20/2022 | 09/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Today’s aircraft industry is trying to solve the primary causes of severe injury or death in survivable aircraft crashes through advancing crashworthiness technology. Computational models offer insights to understand the underlying mechanisms of human injury, leading to crucial design improvements of different aircraft equipment. Historically, computational models in this area have consisted of inertial segments of simplified geometry where the segments are connected by joints of varying motion definition. The outputs of these models are related to the kinematics they replicate such as segment displacement, velocities, and accelerations which are similar to test manikins. Recent advancements in computational capabilities such as finite element (FE) methods enable more accurate modeling of human interaction in such complex dynamic loading environments. Traditionally, these FE models have been developed to represent an average male (50th percentile in terms of height and weight). While these models can provide a valuable assessment of the mid-sized adult male, real world aircraft equipment safety evaluations are not limited to 50th percentile occupants and involves occupants of various size, age and gender. In the past, there have been efforts in developing small female occupant models to investigate the automotive crashes. However, there has never been a concerted effort to develop and validate a small female (5th percentile) human body model that can accommodate the evaluation of airworthiness for aircraft safety systems and aircrew flight equipment safety evaluations. Therefore, the overall objective here is to develop and validate a robust, biofidelic, 5th percentile female FE model for testing and evaluation of aircraft safety systems and simulation of injury predictions. In Phase I, CFD Research will work on (i) developing accurate 5th percentile female human body surface models using medical image data processing and inhouse capabilities, (ii) developing and validating finite element meshes for different local organs against literature data, (iii) integrating the finite element meshes into a single finite element human body model, (iv) preliminary demonstration of the injury biomechanics predictions using the finite element model and (v) articulating the finite element model into different positions using inhouse capabilities. The models will be delivered to the government with a DoD use perpetual license. The Phase II work will involve maturing the preliminary FE model into a well-validated robust model that can be used to study the injury biomechanics under any dynamic loading scenario. This will involve efforts to improve and validate some of the individual local organ models, implement different active and passive musculature states and further validate the full body model for human/cadaver datasets. A stand-alone GUI tool (with inhouse articulation capabilities) to quickly re-position and articulate the FE model will also be developed. |
| W911SR-23-C-0014 | Developing Novel Mechanism of Action Antivirals for Bunyavirus Therapeutics | $548,493 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | CBD212-006 | 05/15/2023 | 05/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | This project seeks to develop a new broad-spectrum antiviral drug against viruses from the Bunyavirales family. These viruses have been designated as being among the highest potential to cause the next pandemic. CFD Research is advancing a natural product-derived antiviral chemistry that has demonstrated strong in vitro potency against Bunyaviruses with low cytotoxicity. We seek to produce an optimized lead candidate from this project. |
| FA2384-23-P-B008 | Smart contact lens for sensing physiological and stress-related biomarkers | $179,920 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | STTR | Phase I | AF23A-T003 | 09/27/2023 | 07/01/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Airmen are continually exposed to high stress situations that require them to perform with high precision. Both chronic and acute stress exposure can impair an individual’s performance, even in far less stressful scenarios. The body responds to high stres |
| HT9425-23-C-0052 | Portable Phage Preparation Technology for Field Application | $1,099,900 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | STTR | Phase II | A20B-T023 | 06/29/2023 | 11/02/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Bacteriophages (phages) are becoming important therapeutic candidates against multidrug resistant (MDR) bacterial infections. There is a need to isolate and concentrate phages collected from the field to enhance specimen storage stability for long-distance transport to specialized laboratories for subsequent analysis. Environmental phage preparation requires expensive, bulky instrumentation and intensive manual procedures. In order to streamline the processes for rapid phage enrichment, screening and isolation in the field, we propose to develop a portable system, comprising of microfluidic processing technology for environmental phage preparation. During Phase I, we developed a modular phage sample preparation system which was interconnected with inline microfluidic devices for efficient filtration. We breadboard tested the phage preparation workflow using various simulated environmental samples in the lab. Phase II research will focus on building a miniaturized and ruggedized system for targeted phage propagation and screening. We will extensively test this integrated phage preparation system with environmental samples from the field. Phase III will focus on alpha and beta prototype manufacturing, commercialization and technology validation with the DoD team. Our portable phage preparation of field suspension samples will provide a novel capability in wide usage of both military and civilian applications. |
| N68335-23-C-0338 | Modeling Tools for the Prediction of Aged TPS Material Performance | $139,919 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N231-060 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Well-characterized thermal management materials are critical for protecting hardware that is exposed to high-heat flux. Phenolic-based composites are at the forefront of thermal protection system (TPS) innovation because of their desirable ablative properties. Due to the demand for these types of systems, tools are required to determine the viability of a material from manufacture to service use. The Navy has identified a critical need to predict the effects of long-term storage on the degradation of phenolic materials and how material aging impacts mission performance. Making these predictions based on real-time data is infeasible given the rate of advancing technology, and therefore accelerated aging techniques are used to model changes to materials. The standard physical methods for accelerated aging, such as exposure to aggravated heat or oxidation, can be lengthy and expensive and are limited to what can be tested within a lab. CFD Research proposes the development of additional tools within the Hypersonic Environment Analysis Toolkit (HEAT) framework for fast-running material property aging models which will be integrated with existing transient thermal response and hypersonic TPS flight performance tools within the HEAT toolset. This will provide a method for analyzing how material aging will impact hypersonic TPS performance years into the future as a function of storage conditions. The material aging models will be anchored using accelerated aging experimentation data provided by partner Kratos SRE. |
| HT9425-23-C-0008 | Flexible Microfluidic Process Technology for Biopharmaceutical Purification of Bacteriophages | $1,099,986 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | STTR | Phase II | DHA21C-002 | 01/19/2023 | 01/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Multidrug resistant (MDR) bacterial wound infections remain a persistent challenge for front-line military medical providers in prolonged care treatment. Bacteriophage (phage) therapeutics have demonstrated preclinical and clinical efficacy against ESKAPEE infections. Phage production however remains a challenge to remove common pyrogen contaminants from phage products, including endotoxins (lipopolysaccharide (LPS) derived from Gram-negative bacteria), exotoxins, and non-endotoxic pyrogens. To meet safety requirement for human application, effective and scalable pyrogen removal technologies compatible for phage production are needed. Our overarching goal is to develop microfluidic filtration technologies for pyrogens removal from phage solutions that are rapid, efficient, and scalable. In Phase I, we prototyped a modular and automated endotoxin removal platform that employed size-based microfluidic separation of phage particles from endotoxin molecules. In addition, we developed a real-time endotoxin quantification device for platform automation and enhancement of phage product safety. In Phase II, we aim to integrate system automation to decrease processing time and costs, as well as, test the performance for diverse array of Gram-negative phages. Phase III will focus on manufacturing of alpha and beta prototypes. Our innovative Gram-negative phage purification platform will provide augmented capability in phage manufacturing for both military and civilian health applications. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7120 | Heterogeneous computing system with dynamic fault tolerance to radiation hardened commercial microelectronics (Hetero-Hard) | $1,456,961 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-022 | 09/29/2023 | 09/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | In this work, we propose a heterogeneous computing system which can seamlessly integrate with the COTS part and provide design hardening against radiation without modifying the inherent design of the COTS part. In Phase I, we worked on the base design of proposed heterogeneous computing system using a digital COTS part as circuit under test (CUT). A machine learning based intelligent mathematical model was designed to monitor and analyze radiation effects in COTS CUT. A selective redundancy-based fault tolerance model was designed to dynamically mitigate radiation effects. Finally, the individual modules, radiation monitor, fault tolerance, were integrated using a heterogeneous computing system. In Phase II, we will focus on the optimization of the proposed methodology by adjusting the design to achieve desired performance. We will expand the proposed system’s capability to address an analog and mixed signal CUT. Prominent analog COTS parts like analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters (ADC/DAC) will be used as CUT, and the proposed system and its modules will be tested and validated. The optimized system will be prototyped and tested with the chosen COTS CUT. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| N68335-23-C-0139 | Thermal Protection System Modeling and Simulation Software for Hardware in the Loop | $139,925 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N222-123 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Hypersonic technologies have rapidly evolved in recent years, with maneuverable hypersonic glide vehicles and cruise missiles posing a more serious threat that is more difficult to counter than conventional ballistic missiles. To remain competitive, existing systems need to be further matured and adapted towards greater maneuverability, accelerations, and speeds. A well-characterized thermal protection system (TPS) is required to ensure the vehicle can sustain prolonged flights in these hypersonic environments and to protect the underlying system hardware such as the structural components, sensor/seeker systems, navigation guidance and controls (NG&C) hardware, payload, and other electrical and hardware components for the extreme external flow environment. The Navy has identified the need to expand its ability to do real-time system level test and evaluation of hypersonic weapons. The Navy requires a fast-running, high-fidelity software model to interface with the system-level test architecture for modeling the TPS response to the advanced hypersonic aerodynamic environment for Hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) system testing. Recognizing this critical need, CFD Research proposes to provide an enhanced TPS M&S framework, the Hypersonic Environment Analysis Toolkit (HEAT), to demonstrate the desired capability for the Navy . CFD Research will partner with Kratos Southern Research Engineering (KRSE) to develop and execute a material characterization test plan. The Phase I will see verification / validation of the HEAT analysis for relevant materials and adaptation of the existing application programming interface by a relevant software platform or language to the Navy system level test architecture. KRSE will provide a Phase II test plan. In the Phase I Option, KRSE will conduct initial material tests and provide data to CFD Research to validate the testing and modeling approaches. Further, CFD Research will also begin development of boundary layer heat transfer surrogate modeling for further augmentation of HEAT’s execution times. In Phase II, the team will execute the proof-of-concept methodology developed in the Phase I on Navy-provided materials, geometries, and trajectories. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7124 | A Modular Framework for Optimization of Pursuit Evasion Strategies for Hypersonic Intercept | $1,499,931 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-017 | 02/03/2023 | 02/02/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | The overall goal of this SBIR project is to develop a framework for creating simulation-based differential games for evaluation and optimization of pursuit and evasion strategies for hypersonic missile defense. In Phase I, the key software modules within the tool were developed, and proof-of-concept was demonstrated via case studies considering differential games of interest. Phase II efforts will focus on 1) extending the modeling and simulation capability to support a broader range of vehicle with subsystems resolved at higher fidelity in more complex engagement scenarios; 2) refining the machine learning-based guidance techniques through provision of additional information, more robust training procedures, varying architectures, and built-in fail-safe mechanisms; 3) defining differential games in which threats are forced to compete with interceptors; 4) developing and tuning optimization techniques to better support scheduling decision variables, categorical decision variables, and adversarial optimization studies; 5) performing optimization using the differential games to optimize dynamic flight behavior of hypersonic interceptor and threat vehicles to identify improved pursuit and evasion strategies; 6) extracting knowledge through application of the tool to define requirements and to inform technology investment; 7) demonstrating the capability applied to MDA relevant scenarios and agents and 8) identifying beyond Phase II technology maturation and transition opportunities. Successful development of the proposed framework will provide a powerful tool for identifying optimized guidance, navigation and control strategies for hypersonic pursuit and evasion from simulation-based differential games. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| W912CG23C0009 | Novel Computational Framework for Optimization of Obscurant Dissemination and Optical Performance | $1,499,829 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | NASA Z7.04 | 01/06/2023 | 02/09/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Obscurant devices allow warfighters to quickly deploy short-duration aerosol clouds that can break line-of-sight contact with threat forces or prevent detection by adversary sensors. They are critical for operational concealment, enhancing both the safety and performance of U.S. and allied forces. Very recently DARPA started multiple teams on the development of next-generation obscurant systems that would provide warfighters with an advantage using passive and active asymmetry with tailorable obscurants deployed in relevant environments. In this effort, CFD Research will develop and execute a novel computational framework to optimize and evaluate both passive and active coded-visibility obscurant dissemination and optical performance. CFD Research will utilize existing expertise and technologies in two-phase gas-granular flows, sensor, and radiative transfer analysis to provide a novel, coupled analysis framework. Furthermore, the entire analysis process will be integrated into an uncertainty quantification framework to enable full-scale trade studies. Ultimately, the developed computational framework will enable DARPA to effectively evaluate Coded-Visibility offerors’ obscurants and provide necessary feedback such that tailorable, visible-LWIR obscurants that will give both passive and active asymmetric advantage to the warfighter will be developed successfully |
| FA2394-23-C-B045 | Performance Prediction of CMCs under Extreme Environment Conditions | $1,249,956 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D036 | 08/03/2023 | 01/10/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) are being increasingly used in hypersonic aerospace components due to their high strength and lighter weight compared to metals, increasing overall performance. However, these components experience extreme environmental co |
| N68335-23-C-0050 | Defect Detection from In-situ Monitoring of LPBF Additive Manufacturing | $139,967 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N222-117 | 11/07/2022 | 05/09/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Additive Manufacturing provides many potential advantages, relative to traditional manufacturing methods, for the Navy and other organizations in the aerospace community. Although flight critical aerospace quality metal alloy components have been produced and flight tested, confidently expanding the use of AM in these applications requiring stringent quality control and repeatability. The vendor and user community has been continually investigating multiple in-situ process sensor technologies to enable advancements in process monitoring and control. Machine Learning (ML) methods and systematic, intelligent fusion of sensor data provides an attractive route to more confidently warn the user of the presence, location, and type of defects in AM parts. In this Phase I effort, CFD Research and our partners from the Advanced Research Laboratory Penn State will implement state-of-the-art ML methods with data fusion strategies. ML training and application will demonstrate the feasibility of advancing defect detection and defect location prediction accuracy, and of predicting defect types, from multiple in-situ sensor modes. The selected ML model structures will enable efficient, intelligent identification of the most important sensor data for future model improvements. In Phase II, extensive testing and training will be used to validate the models and extend the methodology for estimation of critical mechanical properties. |
| HT9425-23-P-0086 | Compact and Portable Remote Monitoring System for Vital Signs with Integrated Photonics | $249,891 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | DHA232-002 | 09/06/2023 | 04/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Measurement of vital signs (VS) is essential to assess the condition of human body. VS includes body temperature (Tc), heart (pulse) rate (HR), respiration rate (RR) and blood pressure (BP). VS are useful in detecting medical problems. Typically VS measurement and monitoring takes place in a controlled setting like hospital, clinic or home using bulky contact based machines. In order to monitor VS in a dynamic environment like a battle field it will be efficient to have a light weight and contactless device. Such a device can be wearable on a vest or mountable on a vehicle in order to expand its availability and reachability. This can enable VS monitoring and measurement of war fighters or civilians trapped in unreachable places using drones mounted with the lightweight contactless device. Such abilities are currently not available. In this work, we propose to design and build a compact and portable remote monitoring and measurement device for VS using light based sensing and integrated photonics. In Phase I, we will focus on estimating the feasibility of the proposed solution through simulated test and verification. We will design a laser array system with micromirrors for optical sensing with effective control of the mirrors for beam steering. We will design a computer vision based pulse point detection platform with a virtual human avatar. Using this platform we will design VS calculations using anthropometric measurements from the estimated poses of human body. We will design the reconfigurable/tunable photonic integrated circuit (PIC) platform for reception and computation of sensed laser signals. We will design an electronic integrated circuit (EIC) to control the micromirrors. The different simulated portions of the proposed remote monitoring system of VS will be tested and verified. This will be followed by the test and verification of the entire remote sensing system of VS. Finally, the simulation results will be analyzed to measure feasibility and establish design optimization techniques. In Phase II of this work, we will focus on building and testing a prototype of the proposed remote monitoring system of VS. |
| FA8651-23-C-A014 | Advances in Infrared Target Scene Projection for Munition Testing | $999,994 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AF212-0003 | 06/15/2023 | 09/15/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To achieve realistic imagery for hardware-in-the-loop testing, infrared scene projectors (IRSPs) must be capable of displaying scenes with fast refresh rates, high resolution, and radiometrically accurate output to properly test IR sensors. During the Phase II effort, CFD Research, along with our partners, the University of Chicago and Optical Sciences Corporation, will develop a novel IRSP system based on quantum dot MWIR emitters. Though materials engineering, we will continue to improve the MWIR emission properties of QD materials synthesized in Phase I and create high quality QD films. We will then couple the QD screen to an optical excitation system for radiometric testing. Colloidal QDs are synthesized in solution, making them compatible with a number of straightforward, low-cost deposition methods that allow them to be cast over large areas. Further, as shown in the Phase I effort, by decoupling the IR emitter material from the optical excitation source, the thermal and photonic properties can be engineered beyond what is possible for resistive arrays or IR-LEDs. This can dramatically improve the radiometric, spatial, and temporal performance of ISRP systems used by the Air Force and throughout the DoD. |
| FA8651-23-P-A005 | Lightweight Metasurface Optics with Wide Field of View and Broad Bandwidth Operation | $149,887 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0001 | 12/05/2022 | 09/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems are extremely important in numerous DoD and commercial applications. While many of these systems successfully employ Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers, there are an increasing number of applications where this service is not available and platforms must rely on wide-field-of-view electro-optical systems to aid in inertial navigation. Wide-field-of-view optics are generally bulky and heavy, requiring large stacks of refractive lenses to achieve adequate imaging quality. In this work, we will develop wide-field-of-view, broadband meta-optics with drastically reduced weight and form factors. Meta-optics are periodic, two-dimensional arrays with spatially variant subwavelength features that provide arbitrary control of phase, amplitude, and polarization. We will investigate three meta-optic design concepts using inverse design and machine learning techniques. Quantitative metrics such as focusing efficiency and modulation transfer function will be assessed over the entire field of view and operational bandwidth. We will also consider manufacturability and durability of each design. By the end of Phase I, we expect to have a demonstrated meta-optic concept, validated through simulations with open-source tools, allowing us to further develop and experimentally demonstrate this technology in Phase II and beyond. |
| FA9101-23-P-B062 | ROBUST AND PRECISE LIQUID AND SUPERCRITICAL FLOW RATE MEASUREMENT | $179,961 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0002 | 06/21/2023 | 03/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Aerodynamic and Propulsion Test Unit (APTU) ground testing of high speed/hypersonic vehicles requires support infrastructure to supply fuels at supercritical pressures and temperatures at or in excess of those experienced during flight. When this aspect |
| N68335-23-C-0244 | Hypersonic Aero-Optic Analysis and Imaging Framework (HAAWK) | $899,932 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | N212-136 | 08/17/2023 | 02/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | The complex and harsh hypersonic environment, with high aerodynamic and thermal loads poses challenges to materials, structures and on-board sensors needed for target tracking, telemetry, communication, and navigation. High surface temperatures require advanced optical window materials and potentially cooling mechanisms. Aerothermal loads interacting with optical sensors include shock waves, causing strong, sharp density gradients, acting as a lens; turbulent boundary layer or wake flow; high-temperature gas and plasma effects due to non-equilibrium air behind shocks, resulting in background radiation, and in turn interacting with the sensor system. Optical window emissions and thermal deformation can also cause additional optical aberrations at the focal plane of the imaging system. In response to those challenges and needs, and within this proposed Phase II effort, CFD Research will leverage past performance and expertise in high-fidelity physics-based and fast-running reduced-order modeling and simulation to continue to build the Hypersonic Aero-optic Analysis and imaging frameWorK (HAAWK). An experimental campaign at CUBRC’s LENS-I and LENS-XX hypersonic facilities will be executed, addressing aero-optical and spectroscopic wake measurements of a generic Common Hypersonic Glide Vehicle (C-HGV) type geometry, providing wavefront information (OPD), and data derived from the point spread function (PSF) including boresight shift, blur and Strehl ratio, etc. as well as spectral emission lines. The experimental data will serve as validation for the in-house developed optical and radiation simulation tools. Reduced-order and surrogate models will be developed, enabling fast execution of the framework. A proof-of-concept demonstration will show HAAWK’s capabilities of rapidly generating databases along hypersonic trajectories, describing the image aberration due to aero-optical and radiative effects. CFD Research uses scene generation to visualize these imaging aberrations. The database information can then be used by third-party sensor manufacturers to develop an on-board compensation algorithm, or, for software- and hardware-in-the-loop (SWIL/HWIL) simulations, supporting ground test validation and verification (V&V) efforts of sensor systems of interest. |
| H9240523P0003 | Topological Anomaly Detection | $149,996 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | SOCOM224-007 | 02/28/2023 | 09/08/2023 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | Charles River Analytics and PatchPlus Consulting are pleased to propose Cerulean FNX, a modular software platform that extends Charles River’s Cerulean transaction analysis framework to the financial intelligence domain. Cerulean FNX is centered around a modular and pluggable network analytics engine containing state/of/the/art financial graph and time series analytics, a modular coordinated visualization that leverages ecological interface design (EID) to enable the intuitive understanding and efficient exploration of the diverse financial network, and a probabilistic reasoning environment that conducts confidence assessments and accumulates knowledge for insights into multi/timescale trends that are difficult for analysts to spot. Cerulean FNX combines four components in a modular software package deployable on diverse computing environments (from a laptop computer to a large computing cluster): (1) a Bayesian Entity Resolution (BER) facility; (2) the Network Analytics Engine (NAE); (3) an analyst/centered coordinated visualization workspace; and (4) a probabilistic reasoning environment (PRE). |
| HT9425-23-P-0044 | Portable Tool for Ankle Instability Detection (PT-AID) | $249,977 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | DHA231-002 | 06/29/2023 | 01/29/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Military service members are exposed to an array of challenging conditions and dangerous environments throughout their training and deployment that can result in musculoskeletal injuries. Ankle injuries, in particular, place a severe burden on force readiness given elevated risk to Soldier-Athletes, long durations of recovery, and the elevated risks of reinjury. Identifying ankle injuries and tracking recovery is critical to mitigating long-term negative effects. Currently, coarse physical examinations are used to detect ankle instability, limiting the ability to properly detect, triage, and treat ankle sprains. Charles River Analytics proposes to design and demonstrate the feasibility of a Portable Tool for Ankle Instability Detection (PT-AID). The PT-AID effort includes the design of a self-contained, compact, and lightweight combined arthrometer and dynamometer to assess ankle function objectively and quantitatively. PT-AID enables clinicians to quickly and easily fit the device to the ankle, finely manipulate the ankle to make assessments across multiple ligament groups, and accurately sense ankle laxity and strength. Additionally, an assessment support interface guides even minimally trained users in objectively and accurately assessing ankle function. PT-AID will thus support clinicians in effectively identifying, tracking, and rehabilitating individuals with ankle injuries and reduce ankle injury burden on military readiness. |
| N64267-23-C-0026 | Carbon-Carbon Composite Manufacturing Process Variability and Impact on Flight Performance | $899,989 | CFD RESEARCH CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AF19A-T021 | 09/22/2023 | 03/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | The survivability, structural integrity, and control authority of hypersonic vehicles depend on the reliability of the material system used in nose cones, aeroshell, control surfaces, thermal protection system, and exhaust system. Carbon-carbon ceramic matrix composites (C/C CMCs) offer several advantages for such high-temperature applications including higher strength, higher thermal shock resistance, longer fatigue life, and reduced weight compared to other aerospace materials. While selected configurations of C/C composites and architectures have been well characterized to date, there are clear gaps in our understanding of the impact of process and/or supplier variability on the resulting material and eventual flight performance. This limits the ability of vehicle designers to determine safety margins or to effectively evaluate flight profiles. Additionally, there is a strong need to develop software tools to complement fabrication and experimental characterization for cost-effective material development. CFD Research is teaming with Battelle to address this challenge. The team will first implement and validate an industrial (coupon to component) scale C/C process model to predict the effects of process variables, starting materials, and their structure on the as-fabricated bulk composite properties. The process model will be capable of predicting bulk mechanical and thermal properties and defect (particularly porosity) distribution on the part scale. Process models resolving the fiber tow topology will be used to inform the component level model, support verification and validation, and to provide higher resolution distributions of defects to peridynamics-based multiphysics simulations of the composite performance in relevant environments. This direct tie-in between process and performance models will enable sensitivity analyses of processing variables and investigation of parameter excursions (such as due to source material variability) on performance. Battelle will provide access to relevant databases of C/C processing parameters, resulting microstructure, and corresponding properties. Battelle will also perform experimental composite fabrication and characterization, assist in algorithm design for the model, and perform microscale (fiber resolved) simulations to support impregnation model parameterization. During the Option period, the team will establish and demonstrate a workflow linking the process model and peridynamics prediction of performance and degradation to fast-running hypersonic vehicle flight simulations of thermo-mechanical performance. |
| N68335-23-C-0495 | Tactile Alert Prototype Environment for Experimentation (TAPEE) | $139,949 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T027 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | To ensure the operational effectiveness, lethality, and survivability of submariners and platforms, Submarine Watchstanders must readily perceive and rapidly and accurately respond to time-critical alerts. Due to information overload driven by system complexity and environmental constraints, however, their perception and subsequent response to urgent notifications can be delayed or missed entirely. There is an urgent need for tools capable of reducing response time to alerts by accelerating alert delivery in a manner that cannot be missed without placing further demand on Watchstanders’ cognitive load. Utilizing haptic cues rather than adding new visual/auditory alerts is a promising alternative if such alerts are designed and delivered in ways that are well-suited to unique challenges of the domain. Charles River Analytics proposes to design and demonstrate a Tactile Alert Prototype Environment for Experimentation (TAPEE). TAPEE provides a design and demonstration infrastructure that parses incoming data streams, identifies and triggers relevant alerts, and passes those alerts to appropriate hardware based on configuration characteristics. TAPEE is grounded in a thorough requirements analysis of the submarine domain and incorporates alerting strategies and COTS devices based on a literature review and focused trade study. |
| FA8649-23-P-0504 | Drawing Intelligence & Rapid Engineering Combined Technologies (DIRECT) | $1,118,040 | CHARACTERISTIC SOLUTIONS COMPANY LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 11/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Sustainment for Air Force legacy systems is driven by availability of critical spare parts. Like the legacy systems themselves, these parts have likely been out of production for years, if not decades. Arguably, it is insufficient technical data that is |
| N68335-23-C-0300 | Communications with Operational Context and Knowledge for Target Audio Identification Learning (COCKTAIL) | $999,968 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N221-024 | 05/16/2023 | 05/12/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Navy air traffic controllers must learn to block out background conversations and focus on one target speaker. Charles River Analytics, working with OWT Global, is developing a prototype for Communications with Operational Context and Knowledge for Target Audio Identification Learning (COCKTAIL). COCKTAIL is an example of a training module that requires accurate speech recognition. COCKTAIL is based on our innovative grammar-assisted speech processing (GASP) approach, which uses linguistic grammars to model the language used in training scenarios and build speech models tailored to those training scenarios. Air traffic control language is highly idiosyncratic, so a state-of-the-art speech-to-text system (e.g., Facebook’s Wav2Vec2) has high word error rates (WERs) even on extremely clean synthetic speech data. Using GASP enables COCKTAIL to drastically reduce the WER. COCKTAIL also uses GASP to generate diverse synthetic speech by varying the content, phrasing, voices, rate, pitch, and accent. COCKTAIL includes a human-machine interface that interacts with the instructor and trainee to create the speech needed for the training application. For example, the instructor may want to vary the number of background conversations and increase the pitch, volume, and speed of one of the conversations to make it more distracting. |
| N68335-23-C-0418 | Advanced Speech Processing Interface for Autonomous Robots (ASPIAR) | $139,980 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-025 | 06/05/2023 | 12/11/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Foreign object debris (FOD) on airfields causes aircraft damage and mission delays. Removal is currently performed by walked visual inspection and sweeper/blower-equipped vehicles, which is laborious and slow. To increase efficiency and effectiveness, the Navy is developing a system for automated FOD removal. To enable a robot to negotiate airfield access with air traffic control (ATC), Charles River Analytics proposes to design and demonstrate Advanced Speech Processing Interface for Autonomous Robots (ASPIAR), a generalizable language understanding module and speech interface for autonomous FOD-removal systems. To understand relevant ATC operations, ASPIAR has a contextually aware computational ATC and FOD domain model encoded in a systemic functional grammar (SFG). To reliably understand speech inputs, the SFG is used to generatively fine-tune an existing automated speech recognition (ASR) model to understand the idiosyncratic ATC communication language as spoken by air traffic controllers, while accommodating variation in accent, enunciation, and background noise. To generate speech responses, the ASPIAR-tailored ASR model generates text, with Synthetic Speech Markup Language metadata to enable expressive voice characteristics, then uses a text-to-speech processor to generate ATC-adherent speech. ASPIAR enables ATC to communicate with the robot using exactly the same verbal protocols they use with human debris-removal teams. |
| 140D0423C0048 | Brain-Based Prediction of Influence Message Effectiveness (BB-PRIME) II-2 | $1,499,933 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | STTR | Phase II | A12A-T009 | 04/25/2023 | 04/30/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Behavior change through the use of messages is a common objective across the Defense community. The ability for analysts to craft effective messages is a challenge, and there are many features of messages that can be varied and that have moderating effects on sharing messages and creating effective behavior change. However, current research has not established definitive causal relationships between specific types of messages or message features and behavior change. Additionally, even such a set of empirically validated causal mechanisms of persuasion is not immediately useful to the Defense community. To benefit Warfighter well-being or foreign population stability, neuroscience research findings must be integrated into usable models and tools. Through this effort, we will establish causal pathways and produce translational insights for how to increase sharing and promote trust in high-quality, evidence-based information, eventually resulting in action by conducting a series of intervention tournaments. During these tournaments we will test operationalizations of message framing and use insights from these activities to populate models in our Brain-Based Prediction of Influence Message Effectiveness (BB-PRIME) Decision Dashboard, a message creation tool that aids analysts in creating influence messages. |
| N68335-23-C-0429 | Real-time Evaluation, Compression, and Organization of Recorded Data using Extensible Rules (RECORDER) | $146,466 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-056 | 06/15/2023 | 12/11/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Navy ships have many cameras for situational awareness, but they produce more video than humans can effectively review, and the gap is widening. Currently, all video is recorded, but the sparse relevant data (e.g., showing interesting targets or conditions) is practically impossible to find among the rest. This lost data compromises decision-making and delays machine learning and autonomy efforts. Charles River is facing similar challenges reviewing video from our maritime perception product, Awarion™. Thus, we propose Real-time Evaluation, Compression, and Organization of Recorded Data using Extensible Rules (RECORDER). RECORDER is an intelligent video recording system that ingests video and associated metadata in a variety of formats, encodes the metadata in an ontology, evaluates the metadata against a collection of user-defined rules (encoded with the same ontology) to select only the data of interest, and stores that data and its metadata at an appropriate level of fidelity in an easily searchable database for subsequent use by human analysts or machine learning algorithms. Users can add rules to expand what is recorded. RECORDER also provides a graphical user interface to review recent data and manually initiate recording, which it uses to suggest new rules to capture similar data in the future. |
| FA8650-23-P-1006 | Automated Grammar-Assisted Malware Evolution (A-GAME) | $149,979 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0012 | 12/08/2022 | 09/09/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Cyber-attacks on Air Force systems jeopardize the mission and cause loss of costly resources. Traditional manual red teaming approaches to evaluate the security of DoD systems typically do not include the resources to accurately emulate the nearly unlimited capabilities of nation-state adversaries. Furthermore, software supply chains are inherently insecure and untrustworthy, creating a large burden to test and validate DoD software systems. To enable fight-through resilience, the Air Force needs to rigorously test innovative protection approaches against diverse embedded malware. Cyber analysts and engineers need tools to automatically generate malicious software to use for cyber testing and evaluation. To address these challenges, Charles River Analytics proposes Automated Grammar-Assisted Malware Evolution (A-GAME). A-GAME will help the Air Force automatically generate malware samples for evaluating avionics cyber protections by developing (1) an evolutionary framework that uses binary analysis and systemic functional grammars (SFG) to construct genetic representations of malware; (2) a malware evolutionary process that uses the genetic representations to optimize, synthesize, and embed malicious code into existing software; and (3) a multi‑objective evaluation method to ensure that evolved malware performs identifiable malicious operations, is resistant to detection, and is injected without causing the host software to fail regression tests. |
| FA2384-23-P-0014 | Human Autonomy Teaming Testbed for Research (HATTER) | $149,961 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | STTR | Phase I | AF22B-T004 | 05/31/2023 | 02/22/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Constant advancement in artificial intelligence and autonomy leads to ever new and different opportunities for human-autonomy collaboration in mission command and control. Technology interfacing and new teaming constructs emerge at a fast pace, requiring |
| FA2384-23-P-0003 | Personalized Learning Assistant for Training Optimization (PLATO) | $149,994 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0014 | 03/21/2023 | 12/13/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Given the Air Force’s significantly reduced infrastructure and force footprint, future Airmen deployed to remote airbases must be agile and able to respond to an extended scope of novel mission tasks, and to do so quickly. This requires Airmen who can tak |
| N68335-23-C-0505 | Toolbox for Verification of Autonomous Systems with Neural Components (TOOL-VAN) | $139,994 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-061 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | As the Navy seeks to deploy neural networks for perception and control capabilities in autonomous systems, they must ensure networks behave predictably and reliably. Researchers have responded to this need by producing a proliferation of methods for formally verifying properties of neural networks. However, applying these methods is a challenge, as methods vary in their applicability to different architectures, properties, and domains, requiring a prohibitively high level of technical expertise for successful use. To address the need for user-friendly verification methods, Charles River Analytics proposes to design and demonstrate the feasibility of a Toolbox for Verification of Autonomous Systems with Neural Components (TOOL-VAN). TOOL-VAN is a general-purpose toolbox using automated verification method selection, specification-based retraining, cyber–physical system integration, and an intuitive graphical user interface to allow users of different backgrounds to verify autonomous systems with neural components in safety, mission, and time-critical scenarios. TOOL-VAN will lower the barrier of entry to neural network verification, enabling the safe deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) systems in the Navy and throughout the Federal Government. |
| FA8650-23-P-1025 | Learning Adaptive Radar Generated Emissions and Making Inferences about Complex Emitters (LARGE MICE) | $149,972 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | STTR | Phase I | AF22B-T005 | 01/13/2023 | 10/13/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To achieve and maintain electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) superiority in future peer or near-peer conflicts, Warfighters need access to accurate and on-time situational awareness of the electromagnetic operational environment (EMOE). EMS situational awareness is critical for electronic warfare support (ES) systems which must quickly detect hostile radar activity, assess their threat level, and select and optimize the appropriate electronic countermeasures (ECM) in order to successfully defend against attack. To overcome these challenges, Charles River is pleased to propose Learning Adaptive Radar Generated Emissions and Making Inferences about Complex Emitters (LARGE MICE), an automated tool for learning radar behaviors and characterizing threats in the EMS. LARGE MICE uses hierarchical predictive processing to enable Warfighters to rapidly detect, intercept, and characterize adversarial radar activities. |
| FA8750-23-C-0025 | Apogee | $1,249,991 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | SF224-D004 | 03/29/2023 | 03/29/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Spacepower doctrine states that “Space mastery makes the military space community more lethal by enhancing the speed and focus of military spacepower. These traits allow military space forces to observe, orient, and decide faster than their adversaries, r |
| N68335-23-C-0151 | Mentoring and Responsive Learning through Intelligent Nautical Skill-modeling, Prompting, Intervention, and Feedback during Independent Exercises (MAR | $748,874 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N18A-T014 | 02/13/2023 | 11/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The safety and operational success of the US Navy’s (USN) fleet depends on the expert navigation, seamanship, and ship handling skills of its Surface Warfare Officers (SWOs). To address these challenges, Charles River Analytics and University of Nevada Reno (UNR) propose to develop and evaluate a full-scope prototype Mentoring and Responsive Learning through Intelligent Nautical Skill-modeling, Prompting, Intervention, and Feedback during Independent Exercises (MARLINSPIKE) system. MARLINSPIKE features (1) a scenario generation and director agent that uses search-based experience management to project potential training outcomes and plan training scenario elements from high-level, quick-to-author specifications; (2) Charles River Analytics’ Hap reactive planning architecture to make realistic and reactive high-level decisions for each ship; (3) UNR’s ship movement controller using rules of the road and potential fields to navigate ships through traffic and around obstacles to meet the high-level decisions; and (4) UNR’s Rules of the Road ship handling simulation to enable ease of integration and rapid iteration on development prototypes, transitioning to Navy MSS and NSST simulations for transition efforts. |
| W909MY-23-P-0004 | Visual Enhancement and Non-Uniformity Elimination (VENUE) | $111,469 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | A22-011 | 02/08/2023 | 08/08/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Many focal plane array sensors have a common problem due to nonuniformities in each image pixel, caused by variation in properties of individual detector elements, nonuniform gains and offsets, and parameters drifting over time. This results in frame-to-frame fixed pattern noise (FPN) in image data, which affects the ability to detect and classify targets. The problem becomes worse when dealing with polarization because of the image processing involved in generating the polarization images. Most of the factory correction approaches are inadequate due to the drift of pixel response over time. Mechanical correction in the field is often cumbersome, impractical, and inadequate to accommodate changing scene conditions. Scene-based nonuniformity correction (SBNUC) methods can work continuously without blocking the optical path and have no moving parts to break; however, they typically depend on the motion of the scene. To address these challenges, Charles River Analytics proposes Visual Enhancement and Non-Uniformity Elimination (VENUE) software to compensate for noise in infrared polarimetric microgrid sensors. VENUE applies SBNUC to individual polarized orientations before the degree of linear polarization image is constructed using an algorithm that combines detection and correction techniques. |
| W5170123C0046 | Simulated ISR Gaming in a Motivational Adaptive Training Environment (SIGMATE) | $1,699,931 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A214-022 | 02/08/2023 | 08/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8650-23-P-1011 | COA Learning: Extracting Scripts from Clustered Events (COALESCE) | $149,989 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0013 | 02/06/2023 | 11/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Intelligence analysts need to quickly identify and predict possible threats before they arise or become too dire. This capability is also critical to inform additional intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) collection activities to get a bette |
| W912CG23C0007 | Artificial Social Intelligence (ASI) for Group Learning and Optimization of Collaborative Workflows (AGLOW) | $1,499,968 | CHARLES RIVER ANALYTICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N162-131 | 12/16/2022 | 08/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The DoD can maximize their strategic advantage by increasing the scale of collective problem solving to exceed current individual and team limits. Though promising results have been demonstrated for foundational technologies such as Artificial Social Intelligence (ASI), additional technology advances are required to develop more generalized frameworks and cross domain collective problem-solving support. We propose ASI Group Learning and Optimization of Collaborative Workflows (AGLOW). AGLOW will (1) integrate the Charles River ASI agent, from our DARPA ASIST work, into the GLOW framework; (2) extend GLOW with new domain-general processing components and reasoning algorithms; (3) adapt our ASIST ASI agent for a new domain; and (4) deploy the ASI agent via AGLOW to a real-world puzzle-hunt environment, a task that shares similarity to teamwork performed by Intelligence Fusion Cells. We expect AGLOW results to materially benefit the ASIST program, the human-machine-teaming AI research community, commercial products, and military technology transition roadmaps. AGLOW provides reusable data logging and intervention listeners used in real-world deployments, as well as an ontology for domain packages and abstractions for cross-domain and domain-specific activities, which can serve as reference implementations to help other ASI technologies generalize. AGLOW adds social-intelligence team support to commercial products. |
| FA8649-23-P-0489 | ZombieCam inexpensive, easy, intelligent anomaly detection for surveillance of remote areas | $1,124,532 | [www.chiralsoftware.com CHIRAL SOFTWARE, INC] | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 08/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ZombieCam is a machine learning based system for monitoring activity in outdoor locations. ZombieCam's innovation is a patented algorithm for detecting anomalies in image sets captured from digital still cameras (DSCs). ZombieCam is designed for commercia |
| W51701-23-C-0086 | Wearable Heat Related Injury Risk Analysis (WHERA) | $149,956 | CHROMOLOGIC LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A224-025 | 04/04/2023 | 07/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W911SR-23-C-0005 | Aerophilic‐electrode‐based Membrane Free Electrolyzer (AMeFE) | $549,993 | CHROMOLOGIC LLC | SBIR | Phase II | CBD203-002 | 09/21/2023 | 08/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | In order to address DoD’s urgent need for decentralized generation of hydrogen peroxide for decontamination on remote sites, ChromoLogic LLC (CL) proposes to develop an aerophilic-electrode-based membrane free electrolyzer (AMeFE) as a light-weight, energy saving, and high efficiency H2O2 generator to support application of vaporized hydrogen peroxide. Unlike the regular electrolysis reactors, AMeFE will boost H2O2 productivity with deliberately design carbon-based catalytic electrodes for 2e- WOR and 2e- ORR simultaneously. With assistance of solid electrolyte, contaminant-free H2O2 solution is supposed to be directly generated in AMeFE without application of any post-treatment (e.g. purification or separation process) on the product. According to the preliminary test result and estimation, the AMeFE device is capable of producing 0.2L 35 wt% H2O2 solution per hour without containing any potential hazards. |
| N68335-23-C-0086 | Membrane Contactor based CO2 Absorbing Module (MC-CAM) | $239,931 | CHROMOLOGIC LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N222-120 | 11/07/2022 | 03/18/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | In order to meet Navy’s need, ChromoLogic LLC (CL) proposes to develop a Membrane Contactor based CO2 Absorbing Module (MC-CAM) to timely remove CO2 maintain CO2 concentration of CCR in a safe range (<0.2%). It’s anticipated that MC-CAM system will be smoothly integrated to the current military SCUBA rebreathers providing endurance for over 10 hours. The end product will become standard CO2 scrubbing solution for all underwater operations. The high ratio of surface area to package volume, innovative microstructure, and application of novel catalyst enable the entire design to be compacted at least to 60% of the commercial canisters. Mainly based on physical absorption, the ruggedized MC-CAM is reusable and is supposed to protect divers from hypercapnia without any prevention maintenance. In Phase I, CL will fabricate a small prototype for the proof of concept. In Phase II, a high fidelity full size prototype will be prepared and demonstrated at Navy facilities. |
| FA8649-23-P-0510 | Panoramic Image Capture for VR Training | $1,249,377 | CIRCLE OPTICS INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 08/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | While virtual reality (VR) training is not new, technological breakthroughs in the last decade have drastically changed the military training landscape across the globe. Our adversaries and competitors are investing heavily in virtual reality (VR) to boos |
| FA8649-23-P-0556 | Propulsion Ecosystem Based on Recycled Metal Propellant | $1,699,867 | CISLUNAR INDUSTRIES USA INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 03/06/2023 | 06/10/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | One limiting factor for persistent space platforms, both military and commercial, is the quantity of propellant on board needed for orbit raising/lowering and station keeping. As such, the ability to refuel assets in space to prolong mission lifetimes is |
| FA8649-23-P-0349 | Novel 360° Camera for VR Training Content Capture | $74,797 | CIRCLE OPTICS INC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/07/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Circle Optics developed a novel technology for multi-camera systems that can enable simultaneous high-resolution and wide field of view imaging without the inefficiencies of gimbals, or the high distortion or time-consuming stitching burdens of existing systems. These revolutionary camera systems are designed optically and opto-mechanically to provide real-time tiled images from adjacent polygonal fields-of-view, without parallax or perspective errors. Circle Optics will seek to connect with AF customers who can benefit from using such a system to capture training videos for VR enabled service training or for photogrammetric mapping. |
| FA8649-23-P-0663 | Nuclear Beta Emitter Ion Engine for Small Satellites | $75,000 | CITY LABS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Satellites continue to be miniaturized to mitigate cost and procurement cycle times. Additionally, smaller satellites enable missions not feasible with larger satellites. For example, multi-point-simultaneous global sensing is achievable via constellation |
| FA8649-23-P-0533 | Tritium-Powered Nanowatt Crypto Key Retention and Security COMSEC System that Requires No Battery Replacement for Life of Equipment | $1,250,000 | CITY LABS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/09/2023 | 11/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force needs COMSEC devices that do not require battery replacement for their battery-backed key retention and security. City Labs is proposing the adaptation of its Model P100 tritium betavoltaic power source along with an adapted version of L3Har |
| FA8649-23-P-0558 | Self-Powered Wireless Autonomous Imaging Sensor for Satellites | $1,700,000 | CITY LABS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 02/28/2023 | 06/03/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Space Force needs an autonomous self-powered imaging sensor with onboard processing capabilities and wireless communication for satellites that can operate continuously under broad temperature conditions for the life of the space vehicle. The ability to a |
| FA8649-23-P-0620 | Tritium Battery AA Form-Factor for Continuous 20+ Year Operation for COMSEC Crypto Key Security | $75,000 | CITY LABS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The AFLCMC needs a battery to provide a lifetime of continuous power to COMSEC devices for its backup key retention and security. The proposed adaptation of City Labs’ tritium betavoltaic battery (Model P100) power source will provide consistent power (at |
| FA9453-23-C-X003 | NanoTritium Betavolatic Power Systems - TACFI | $376,250 | CITY LABS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | J201-CSO1 | 09/15/2023 | 12/22/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In summary, the effort will improve City Labs’ tritium power source to provide long-term power for small space satellites. The stacking methodology for robust assembly of devices with multiple layers of metal hydride and semiconductor material will be enhanced in this project. The effort will also result in an adequate helium diffusion mechanism in the electronic package which will enable the use of higher amounts of tritium in the power source devices. City Labs is the only licensed manufacturer of betavoltaic power sources which carries a General License allowing distribution to anyone in the United States without requiring the recipient to possess a radiation license. The proposed tritium betavoltaic power source will meet the AF customers’ requirement for an ultra-small, temperature resilient, continuous 5-10 year power capability. |
| FA8649-23-P-0751 | LWIR Imaging System to Shorten the Kill Chain | $74,681 | CIRCLE OPTICS INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The goal of the DoD is that Infrared Search and Track (IRST)-equipped fighters will be able to sense adversary aircraft first before being seen themselves. Being the first to detect is critical to the Air Force’s strategic capabilities. Current IR sensors |
| FA8649-23-P-0486 | AI-Enabled Visual Inspection for Aircraft Exterior | $1,149,999 | CLARIFAI, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 10/10/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The 6th Maintenance Group (MXG) has a national Defense-related mission need to maintain readiness & resilience in-air refueling and training operations. The current process for maintenance operators to inspect KC-135s for exterior damage is manual, time-c |
| FA8649-23-P-0487 | AI-Enabled Visual Inspection for Fighter Engines | $1,149,972 | CLARIFAI, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 03/23/2023 | 11/25/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The 56th Maintenance Group (MXG) has a defense-related mission need to maximize fleet readiness rates of F-16 and F-35 fighter aircrafts. One common method to maximize mission capability rates is to conduct predictive maintenance engine inspections levera |
| 140D0423C0087 | BANDITS Integration Testing Simulation (BITS) | $1,798,806 | CLARITY CYBER LLC | STTR | Phase II | HQ085021S0001-06 | 08/23/2023 | 04/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | There are two main focus areas in this proposal. The first is to transition a number of successful DARPA projects into the Open Group Sensor (Open System Architecture) SOSA™ Consortium. The second is to develop a system that can evaluate current and future key management architectures. |
| N68335-23-C-0037 | Underwater Ultrasonic Imaging of Microbubbles for Real-time Control of Decompression Procedures Using Wearable CMUT Arrays | $999,245 | CLEARSENS, INC. | STTR | Phase II | N21A-T013 | 01/04/2023 | 01/15/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Decompression sickness (DCS) is one of the major health risks for scuba divers even if they follow strict prevention schedules to stage their decompression. DCS is caused by intravascular or extravascular bubbles as a result of tissue supersaturation in inert gases during decompression, with symptoms varying in severity from skin manifestations to excruciating pain, paralysis and death. The risk of DCS is mitigated through probabilistic decompression models. These effectively limit the supersaturation rate by slowing the ascent of the diver (decompression) but cannot personalize decompression schedules to individual diver physiology. Detection of microbubbles in real time during diving could potentially provide the information needed to personalize decompression schedules and lower individual DCS risk. Clearsens Inc. is a start-up company that aims to translate capacitive micromachined ultrasonic transducer (CMUT) technology to marketplace for novel ultrasound applications. The company licensed from NC State University a technology that simplifies the manufacturing process and enables highly efficient, wideband, and small form factor CMUT arrays. Our goal is to tailor the patented technology to this Navy need. Our findings in Phase I Base show that the technology is well suited to make a low-power, wearable and pressure-compatible ultrasound imaging system while having the ability to implement both traditional (B-mode/Doppler) imaging and microbubble-specific imaging schemes developed in the context of clinical contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). In Phase I, we verified our hypothesis that the voltages necessary to achieve similar acoustic output would decrease with depth, in both simulations and experiments. Pressure tests with the help of our academic partners demonstrated that the technology can operate reliably at a pressure corresponding to 90 meters depth. We also acquired both B-mode and microbubble-specific images on a flow tissue-mimicking material using a CMUT array connected to a desktop research ultrasonic imaging system, demonstrating multiplexed imaging capability. In Phase II, we propose to manufacture the fully-packaged wearable prototype (final wideband CMUT array packaged with electronics as a wearable capable of multiplexed imaging on various anatomical locations) to be tested and optimized in human chamber dive experiments for decompression stress quantification. We will continue to work with the same established team of experts in microbubble ultrasonic physics and detection, ultra-wideband CMUT design and fabrication, low-power ultrasound electronic interfacing, and diving and hyperbaric medicine, to achieve our goals. |
| HDTRA1-23-P-0014 | 3DGEN | $182,999 | CLOSTRA INC | SBIR | Phase I | CBD222-005 | 05/22/2023 | 12/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | Clostra’s 3DGEN is an end-to-end process for automated reconstruction of high-fidelity three-dimensional (3D) models from two-dimensional (2D) images. It leverages proven machine learning techniques for fusion of input images and generation of 3D models and fills a current technological gap in Warfighter training and operation in the domain of Chemical and Biological Defense. The outcomes of 3DGEN include the generation of 3D models of objects, buildings, and terrain via fusion of 2D images, reconstruction of topologically accurate 3D models when blueprints are available, and industry standard outputs that can be integrated with relevant simulation tools. The success of the project will enable Warfighters to train and gain situational awareness during and before operations. 3DGEN will be built upon foundational work performed for Clostra’s DEEP Screen and DeepMeet projects, in which 2D images/videos are successfully generated into 3D virtual reality environments. In Phase I, Clostra will merge two 2D image types (visible light camera images and blueprints) and use the 2D images to generate 3D models of objects, buildings, and/or terrain. We will generate parameter files that can be used for CONTAM or other simulation software. A proof-of-concept and development pipeline for an inferenced building generation model will be created. |
| HDTRA123P0024 | IsoProbe | $167,499 | CLOSTRA INC | SBIR | Phase I | DTRA224-001 | 07/31/2023 | 02/29/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Threat Reduction Agency | An artificial intelligence solution (AI) is proposed that utilizes very recent advances in machine learning and deep learning to improve Atom Trap Trace Analysis (ATTA) image analysis. The proposed solution shortens turnaround times and extends the capabilities of ATTA systems allowing a full accounting, across densities, of the nature and number of radionuclides in the images to be analyzed. The proposed AI solution extracts and identifies atoms of interest from noise, allowing identification and quantification where otherwise images may have been degraded by scattered light, partial or non-integer atoms, and spurious camera data events such as x-rays, cosmic rays, muons etc. The proposed machine learning/deep learning approach greatly reduces the effect of statistical uncertainties, providing clean, rapid, and accurate atom count rates. The proposed algorithm provides a performance level significantly greater than the current, traditional approach and promises an atom detection rate range of 50 - 5000 atoms / hr, as a minimum result. The AI solution can easily be integrated into the ATTA data acquisition process to guide and inform when counting is statistically acceptable and transfer easily to other, similar applications where region of interest and quantification in noisy datasets is needed. |
| W51701-23-C-0136 | GNN Swarm | $1,699,990 | CLOSTRA INC | SBIR | Phase II | A214-045 | 07/20/2023 | 02/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Robust collaboration is needed between different agents in various Unmanned Aerial/Ground Systems (UxS). ML/AI development has enabled development of a graph neural network (GNN)-based swarm control algorithm. Clostra’s GNN-Swarm uses a GNN framework for mapping relationships between all members of a UxS swarm, and deep reinforcement learning (DRL) for organizing, training, optimizing, and robustifying swarm behavior towards a specific goal. GNN’s allow swarming agents to be gracefully added or dropped from the current swarm graph as GNNs function well with incomplete information. Critically, use of GNN-based graphs allow agents to quantitatively determine the informational validity (or likelihood of noise) of received data in contested RF or communication-poor environments. Current GNN control solutions are based on Laplacian matrices, which are hard coded and not responsive to real-time changes to the agent or graph (for example, a team member is added or lost). A more flexible, robust approach is needed, which easily takes into account adding/dropping agents from a swarm (and complex goals) without significant customization or lengthy, expensive training: Clostra’s GNN-Swarm. By the end of Phase II Clostra will have our GNN-Swarm algorithm installed and testing in a swarm of UAVs in various outdoor and/or indoor environments. |
| W5170123C0049 | Deep Focus | $999,999 | CLOSTRA INC | SBIR | Phase II | A17-133 | 01/24/2023 | 01/25/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W911NF-23-P-0002 | Portable Holographic Imager for Aerosols (PHIA) | $182,956 | CLOUDSCI LLC | SBIR | Phase I | CBD222-004 | 02/06/2023 | 08/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | The rapid identification of aerosolized particles that pose an immediate chemical or biological threat remains a significant challenge. Existing contact-free methods to measure airborne particles have employed various light-scattering techniques to obtain particle information, however, these techniques are severely limited in their accuracy due to their reliance on assumptions about particle shape, source, and refractive index. Perhaps the most promising technique to overcome these issues is digital in-line holography (DIH) which has many advantages over traditional light-scattering techniques. In this proposal, we build on previous DIH work by the team by incorporating lasers of multiple wavelengths to obtain color holographic information for each particle, providing an additional measurement parameter based on the particle’s chromatic absorption properties. Machine learning algorithms can then be applied to the color holograms to determine particle type. In Phase I, we will perform Discrete Dipole Approximation (DDA) modeling to evaluate the system’s theoretical response to various biological and non-biological particle types and determine the system's optimal configuration. Simulated holograms from the DDA model runs will be used to train, test, and evaluate machine learning algorithms. In Phase II, a prototype instrument will be built using the findings of Phase I and will undergo lab and field testing to further establish the measurement technique. |
| FA9101-23-P-B044 | Compact Modular Telemetry System for Air Gapped Communication in Flight Systems Data Aquisition | $179,942 | [ CMA TECHNOLOGIES, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0009 | 06/15/2023 | 03/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Currently, wind tunnels and virtually any enclosed test facility are constrained by the density of sensors that can fit in the Unit Under Test (UUT) as well as the signal conditioning requirements and interconnects. Models are usually scaled to accommodat |
| W911SR-23-C-0019 | Pharmaceutical Development, Planning, and CMO Identification for the Expedited Advancement of a Scopolamine Multi-Dose-Vial Drug Product | $662,559 | CMC PHARMACEUTICALS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | CBD212-004 | 06/27/2023 | 07/02/2025 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | CMC Pharma is proposing this Phase II SBIR to continue the development and testing of a multi-dose vial of a scopolamine hydrobromide trihydrate (Scop-HBT) ready-to-use intramuscular solution formulation. The Joint Project Manager for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Medical (JPM CBRN Medical) is developing Scop-HBT under the Improved Nerve Agent Treatment System - Centrally Acting (INATS CA) program. Scop-HBT has established anticholinergic properties and a multi-dose presentation could improve outcomes for OPNA poisoning and reduce the logistical burden of single-dose auto injectors or vials. A multi-dose 20-mL presentation could provide 10-20 doses, thus reducing the vial requirements of a unit dose by 10- to 20-fold. Reducing the logistical burden by 10- to 20-fold would streamline supplying, storing, carrying, using, and disposing of vials needed to treat numerous subjects during a mass casualty OPNA exposure incident. Scop-HBT was selected as a candidate addition to the OPNA treatment regimen because it has established anticholinergic activity, crosses the blood brain barrier, is anticipated to be compatible with the standard nerve agent emergency treatment regimen and has complementary pharmacological profiles to atropine. In addition, Scop-HBT is approved by the FDA for a different indication; thus an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) supply chain already exists that meets U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) standards and cGMPs. CMC Pharma has completed significant previous work under a Phase I SBIR and additional research programs funded by the DoD. During these previous efforts, CMC Pharma identified a lead and several backup formulations for further development and intends to leverage the learnings from all previous efforts to execute the current proposal. CMC Pharma has the personnel, facilities and long standing professional relationships with subcontractors that are ideally suited for this effort. The personnel engaged in the proposed effort have decades of experience moving products into development and through FDA approval. The purpose of the project described herein is to expedite the development of a preserved, multi-dose vial presentation of a ready-to-use Scop-HBT formulation for IM injection. To that end, CMC Pharma proposes to prepare and evaluate prototype lead and backup formulations; continue to develop, enhance, and qualify the analytical methods utilized for those evaluations; develop an integrated product development plan; and to identify, recommend, and qualify a cGMP manufacturing site for the drug product. CMC Pharma intends to utilize funding from this and future efforts to move the multi-dose Scop-HBT drug product through development and FDA approval for both civilian and military use. |
| N68335-23-C-0517 | Projection-Based Model Order Reduction for Practical Parametric High-Fidelity Numerical Simulations of Maneuvering Hypersonic Weapons | $139,971 | CMSOFT, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-007 | 07/12/2023 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | The main objective of this SBIR effort is three-fold.: To review the accuracy and cost of the computational models underlying existing, industry-standard computational tools for the simulation of a generic hypersonic maneuvering vehicle. To demonstrate the feasibility of a computational framework for projection-based model order reduction and hyperreduction, and of its potential for delivering for hypersonic applications the accuracy of a high-fidelity aerodynamic model at or under the cost of a low-fidelity model. To develop a prototype plan for adapting to the CREATE-AV Kestrel Solver both offline and online stages of this computational framework. |
| FA8649-23-P-0114 | Hands-Free Eyes-Free Voice-Directed Inspection and Reporting System (VDIRS) | $74,987 | COBALT SPEECH AND LANGUAGE, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Voice-Directed Inspection and Reporting System (VDIRS) will use Cobalt’s Virtual Maintenance and Testing Assistant (VMTA) to enable maintenance technicians to use their voice to take notes, fill in forms, confirm the completion of each step in a system inspection workflow, and proceed to the next step in the overall process. Paired with an optional AR headset, the technician can take pictures or short videos to enhance the documentation and data. By using the VDIRS management console, technicians can collect analytics to measure the effectiveness of the VDIRS. VDIRS hands-free capability can improve technicians’ productivity, reduce errors, improve safety, and shorten training time by eliminating manual data entry and look-up time on laptops, handheld devices, or paper forms. |
| FA8649-23-P-0610 | Advanced Nasopharyngeal Airway | $74,072 | [ CODE 1 MEDICAL DEVICES, LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/01/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Airway obstruction is the second most common cause of preventable combat deaths. Despite the cruciality of nasopharyngeal airways (NPA) for addressing obstruction in combat and civilian medicine, their failure rates are alarmingly high, as airway obstru |
| HR001123C0078 | Deep Learning Translation of Unsafe Source and Binary into Safe Software | $1,499,548 | CODE 13 SECURITY | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-10 | 03/14/2023 | 03/14/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | By virtue of a Phase I Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) contract, Code 13 Security (doing business as Dark Sky Technology) has developed a Technical Readiness Level (TRL) 5 technology to translate type-unsafe source and binary software into the type-safe language Rust. The design of this system is innovative in its use of machine learning and a context-aware intermediate representation (IR). We aim to productize this Phase I capability into Bulletproof Code®, a TRL 9 product to abstract and synthesize software binaries and source code across programming languages. Although the benefit of being able to cost-effectively translate type-unsafe languages C/C++ into the type-safe language Rust is formidable, the product being proposed goes way beyond just translation. The Common Objective Representation (COR) being introduced in this Phase II effort will enable the synthesis process to support additional objectives, including the ability to correct programming errors in repositories and verify the results using formal assurance evidence. We believe that once users verify that automated code remediation, to address either nefarious contributors or poor coding, is possible, they will be eager to implement such tools in their development environments. Having deployed tooling into software development pipelines in the past, Dark Sky Technology will be ready to assist in making code remediation a seamless addition to their processes. |
| FA8649-23-P-0684 | Rapid Physical Restoration for Pain Recovery and Operational Readiness | $74,991 | [ COFACTOR SYSTEMS INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Shiftwave delivers scientifically developed patterns of physical vibration along the body in the form of high-intensity pulsed-pressure waves. These Shiftwaves communicate vibro-tactile information into the body. This can guide the body into a physiologic |
| FA8649-23-P-0863 | Rapid Stress Elimination For Enhanced Resiliency and Operational Readiness | $74,991 | [ COFACTOR SYSTEMS INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/17/2023 | 08/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Shiftwave delivers scientifically developed patterns of physical vibration along the body in the form of high-intensity pulsed-pressure waves. These Shiftwaves communicate vibro-tactile information into the body. This can guide the body into a physiologic |
| FA8649-23-P-1110 | CNTIENT for Topology and Link Management of a Dynamic Satellite Network | $1,249,731 | COGNITIVE SPACE, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 08/25/2023 | 11/28/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Space Development Agency (SDA) aims to provide responsive and resilient space capabilities and support of the Joint Force as part of the Joint All Domain Command and Control (JADC2) – increasing warfighters’ lethality, maneuverability, and survivabili |
| FA8649-23-P-0017 | Open Solution Control of a UAS from a manned Platform | $1,248,101 | COHERENT TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 01/10/2023 | 01/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Coherent Technical Services, Inc (CTSi), in partnership with Kratos developed a preliminary concept for control of a Kratos Valyrie Unmanned Air System (UAS) from the cockpit of a Contractor Owned, Contractor Operated (COCO) F-16 aircraft. This concept was implemented using CTSi’s Advanced Adversary Mission System (AAMS), and demonstrated in CTSI’s Enhanced Systems Integration Lab (E-SIL) simulator. The AAMS is currently installed in a number of COCO F-16’s and A-4’s. Kratos and CTSi seek to further develop a Manned/Unmanned Teaming (M/UM-T) interface between a Kratos UAS (targeted at the XQ-58A Valkyrie collaborating with a manned tactical platform. The primary objective of the Phase II effort is to demonstrate the M/UM-T functionality in a high-fidelity simulated environment, ready to integrate and demonstrate in-flight. |
| N68335-23-C-0265 | Aerial Refueling Tanker and Receiver Aerodynamic Interaction Modeling and Simulation – Software Application | $479,951 | COHERENT TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N161-003 | 04/03/2023 | 11/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | In aerial refueling operations, a heavy, fuel-laden tanker aircraft often operates at a high lift coefficient which imparts significant velocity perturbations upon the downstream flow field. As the trailing receiver aircraft maneuvers within this tanker wake, it experiences position-dependent aerodynamic force and moment increments that are not negligible and affect its trim and control states. The Navy has operational dependance on aerial refueling and has significant need to improve the simulation fidelity of this flight regime to develop, test, and certify its equipment, aircraft, and procedures in a laboratory environment. In response to this need, a unique application of a classical vortex lattice, aerodynamic modeling method (dubbed “incremental vortex lattice method, IVLM”) was employed to compute tanker-induced force and moment increments from a pre-solved CFD tanker wake velocity field. The use of this computationally compact methodology and simple planar receiver model enables real-time summation of these tanker interference effects onto any existing receiver aerodynamic model without a priori knowledge of that underlying model. Correlation with experimental aerial refueling datasets and pilot-in-the-loop evaluations have shown that the technology effectively models real-world tanker effects and adds valuable fidelity to the simulation. The present study will expand the refinement of the baseline MATLAB/Simulink software toolset, convert it to compiled C++ code, and integrate it directly into the Navy’s CASTLE simulation environment as a configurable/callable module. Subsequently, the toolset will be applied to the high-profile MQ-25 tanker program to model both that tanker and all current carrier-based aircraft that will refuel behind it. Various experimental and computational datasets will provide the wake flow field definition and serve to verify the resulting simulation fidelity. |
| W56KGU-23-C-0009 | Low Earth Orbit Positioning, Navigation and Timing (LEO-PNT) | $1,149,667 | COHERENT TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC. | STTR | Phase II | A21C-T017 | 06/27/2023 | 06/26/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Coherent Technical Services, Inc. (CTSi) and the University of Texas at Austin Radionavigation Lab (RNL) propose developing prototype modules that exploit Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) mega constellations to provide Position, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) data to mounted and dismounted troops. These prototypes will be compatible with the Mounted and Dismounted Assured PNT Systems (MAPS and DAPS, respectively) and exploit mega constellations like Starlink, OneWeb, Project Kuiper, and Xona Space Systems, and the recently announced. The initial prototype hardware will include Ku-band antennas and radio frequency (RF) front ends, a software defined radio (SDR), and navigation processing software that will enable operation with Starlink and OneWeb, while the fundamental approach is applicable to any other LEO constellation. During Phase I, the CTSi-RNL team developed a MAPS-to-DAPS architecture in which the MAPS platform would form differential corrections and broadcast them to DAPS units over a low bandwidth connection (<10 kbps). This architecture is enabled by our development of a blind signal identification method that we applied to fully characterize the Starlink signal structure. We identified key features shared by all satellites and channels, including the Primary and Secondary Synchronization Sequences (PSS and SSS), allowing our technique to be extended to many constellations providing a robust solution. During Phase II, the CTSi-RNL team will develop real-time software to acquire, track, and navigate with LEO signals in our SDR. We will develop hardware prototypes with antennas and RF bandwidths that are representative of both MAPS and DAPS units. We will demonstrate the ability to acquire, track, and navigate using signals from Starlink and OneWeb in both absolute (stand-alone) and relative (MAPS-to-DAPS) architectures. Work will be divided between CTSi and RNL with CTSi developing all real-time software and RNL capturing the RF samples used for software development and performing fundamental research on the limits of weak signal tracking, patterns of signal availability, satellite clock steering and timing, and absolute navigation algorithm development. Real-time software development will include all components to integrate LEO-PNT capabilities into our existing multi-GNSS SDR. The major functional components are acquisition planning, acquisition, tracking, antenna pointing/beam steering interface, signal tracking, and navigation processing. Our modular approach will ensure compatibility with future antenna developments, SDR and CPU upgrades, pntOS pluggable architectures, and additional LEO constellations as they become available. During Phase II, the CTSi-RNL team will fully describe the OneWeb signal as was done for Starlink under Phase I. This characterization will enable real-time tracking of two current constellations by the end of the period of performance. |
| FA9453-23-P-A059 | Integrated Communication, Navigation, and Authentication | $179,904 | COHERENT TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC. | STTR | Phase I | SF23A-T001 | 09/07/2023 | 06/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Coherent Technical Services, Inc. (CTSi) and The University of Texas Radionavigation Lab (RNL) are partnering to develop advanced technology for integrating communication, navigation, and authentication functions using shared radio hardware. The CTSi-RNL |
| FA8730-23-P-B020 | Grex: Trusted Decentralized Autonomous C2 Architecture | $179,937 | COLVIN RUN NETWORKS, INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0027 | 09/08/2023 | 06/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Decentralized Command and Control (C2) of Autonomous Systems refers to the distribution of decision-making authority among multiple autonomous systems, such as drones, as opposed to a centralized control structure where a single entity makes all decisions |
| FA8649-23-P-0135 | Rapid, Semi-rigid, Cross-functional Ultralight (RSCU) litter | $62,747 | COMBAT BOUND LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Rapid, Semi-rigid, Cross-functional Ultralight (RSCU) is a casualty evacuation drag litter designed to minimize the loss of combat effectiveness while evacuating a wounded teammate. The RSCU rolls up into a small form factor, and under load and tension, it becomes semi-rigid due to the internal radial strap design, immobilizing casualties. Both the Base & Max versions weigh less than 5 pounds, and do not require assembly. It is also designed for on-the spot improvisation and modularity; RSCU allows extraction using the entire kit or its components (litter body and drag straps). |
| FA8649-23-P-0588 | Combat Bound Puca Body Worn EW/ECM/SIGINT/Counter-RCIED System | $74,839 | COMBAT BOUND LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Puca is a body-worn networked tactical EW system that enables EW capabilities down to individual airmen and teams, such as Tactical Air Control Parties, Pararescuemen, and Security Forces. The Puca provides electronic counter-measures (ECM), electron |
| HQ0860-23-C-7110 | Predict Signatures of Hypersonic Missiles | $1,499,999 | COMBUSTION RESEARCH & FLOW TECHNOLOGY INC | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-015 | 03/28/2023 | 03/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Using Combustion Research’ Flowfield Module (FM) approach, the Phase I effort laid the groundwork for the Hypersonic Vehicle Flowfield Module (HVFM) for axisymmetric/two-dimensional powered hypersonic missiles. As with all our FM tools, HVFM has an Intelligent Automated Architecture (IAA) agent which controls all aspects of the high-fidelity simulation pipeline allowing for non-experts in computational fluid dynamics to produce flowfield and signature results efficiently, consistently, and automatically. The Phase II effort will build upon this foundation by extending it to three-dimensional systems and further investigate modeling effects on both flowfields and signatures. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| FA8649-23-P-0666 | ADAM: Automated Documentation for Airframe Maintenance, using GPT-3 for Generative Artificial Intelligence | $74,957 | COLVIN RUN NETWORKS, INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/27/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Colvin Run Networks offers a Generative AI/ML solution powered by GPT-3 that revolutionizes the way Tactical Maintainers work by automating the consumption of thousands of pages worth of technical documentation resources utilized daily, creating a convers |
| FA8649-23-P-0243 | Automated AI/ML-driven Software Delivery | $74,998 | COLVIN RUN NETWORKS, INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Colvin Run Networks + Harness AI propose implementation of a new software solution created for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) Software Delivery automation that revolutionizes the way USAF DevSecOps work by streamlining integrations with cloud providers, platforms, and tools, reducing operational maintenance by 95%, and by allowing engineers to spend their time innovating product. Harness AI is used in production by 500+ defense and non-defense organizations worldwide. The Colvin Run platform affordably adds value by enabling government enterprises to release applications to production across their respective mission-based architectures. By implementing the Harness software delivery platform, agencies can empower developers to be more productive while maintaining compliance and security through Open Policy Agent (OPA)-based governance engines and custom pipeline policies. Harness removes the time spent on maintenance and allows DevOps to spend more time building new tools and technologies. The Colvin Run solution significantly impacts USAF’s defense need by providing efficiency and quality of web application development by replacing incomplete legacy software with a modern solution. |
| FA9300-23-P-6004 | Landing Area and Rocket Plume Diagnostics | $149,995 | COMBUSTION RESEARCH & FLOW TECHNOLOGY INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF221-0021 | 12/23/2022 | 09/24/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The importance of the Tactically Responsive Launch (TacRL) program lies in the fact that it increases the speed of launch operations allowing for the deployment of satellites and cargo to be made available to personnel at short notice in emergencies or during conflicts. This program aims to take advantage of the growing cadre of private launch providers (Masten Space, SpaceX, Blue Origin, etc.), many of which are funded by venture capital, to achieve these goals. One of the challenges that will be faced during this program is the development of technology that will allow rocket cargo to land on unfinished, irregular surfaces unlike those typically used by the private launch companies mentioned previously. In such cases, it is important to understand the mechanism of interaction between the plume and the various types of landing surfaces that it might encounter. To this end, the overall aim of the proposed effort will be to develop diagnostic tools that are capable of measuring velocity and/or identifying structures involved in plume-ground interactions. These tools will provide measurement data that can be used for validating and improving existing numerical models. Under the proposed Phase I effort, our team will initiate progress towards the overall goal by using a subscale reacting rocket model. The exhaust plume from this model will be visualized using appropriate high-speed imaging techniques to understand the temporal evolution of flow structures. In future phases, this test setup will be appropriately modified to include the effects of a planar surface of appropriate quality to recreate realistic landing scenarios that might be encountered by rocket-based cargo vehicles that support the TacRL program. These modifications will allow for the better characterization of the plume-ground interaction mechanism by studying the temporal evolution of flow structures in the plume as they interact with the ground plane and evolve thereafter. These metrics are crucial for assessing surface survivability as well as stand-off distances for personnel and critical ground equipment. The data collected during this program will prove to be an essential validation tool for the computational model that will be deployed by our team using our in-house, high resolution CFD solver. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7513 | Improved Hypersonic Jet Interaction Modeling with Propulsion Exhaust | $150,000 | COMBUSTION RESEARCH & FLOW TECHNOLOGY INC | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T005 | 11/23/2022 | 05/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | For hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) and hypersonic cruise missile (HCM) engagement scenarios intercept occurs in a flight regime where aerodynamic interaction and chemical reacting flow effects are large. To support the development of HGV and HCM intercept vehicle concepts, this program extends a current state-of-the-art hypersonic flow solver and modeling toolkit, Reentry Vehicle Flowfield 3-D Model (RVFM3D) for application to hypersonic, reacting flow jet interaction (JI) problems. RVFM3D is a 3-D, automated flowfield modeling package specialized for hypersonic vehicle analysis that includes the advanced physical models of the CRAFT CFD(R) solver. It additionally includes: (1) a user-friendly interface to expedite problem setup, (2) an automated grid generator for the user specified vehicle body, and (3) an automated execution environment to efficiently complete and post-process the simulation. These automation features greatly reduce the total solution generation time and enable non-CFD experts to rapidly turn around vehicle simulations. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| N68335-23-C-0413 | Advanced Physics Modeling for Gas Turbine Particulate Ingestion | $139,994 | COMBUSTION RESEARCH & FLOW TECHNOLOGY INC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T003 | 06/05/2023 | 11/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Ingestion of silicate particles into aircraft gas turbine (GT) engines remains a serious hazard to both commercial and military aircraft. Helicopters and low-flying fixed-wing aircraft in desert environments are exposed to airborne sand particulate. Both commercial and military aircraft can be exposed to runway dust as well as high-altitude volcanic ash. These silicate particulates present a hazard to aircraft, particularly if ingested into GT engines where they can block cooling passages and cause structural and performance degradation when deposited on internals either in solid or molten form. It is essential that mitigation strategies be developed to minimize the impact of particulate ingestion on engine integrity. To do this in an efficient and economical way, computational tools are required to allow prediction of particle transport and behavior in engine airflow passages, including high-temperature transition to a molten state and deposition on engine surfaces. CRAFT Tech has developed an advanced simulation methodology for modeling the transport and deposition of solid and molten silicate-based particulate (e.g. sand, ash, road dust) in a Reactive Solids Tool (RST), which has been validated for silicate deposition up to 1600K temperatures. The RST can track millions of particles of varying size and material through a complex geometry, predict local regions susceptible to solid, molten or semi-molten particle deposition, and report the state (solid/molten) and time-dependent deposit temperature and thickness. Unique features of the RST include a default silicate material database, and a state-of-the-art molten particle deposition model calibrated to gas-phase temperatures up to 1700K. The RST is fully functional for parallel-computing with either RANS or LES solvers and can be used for production engineering calculations to predict the potential for solid/molten particle deposits in complex high-temperature flows. Significant deposit buildup on a surface presents additional modeling challenges. First, the presence of deposits must be accounted for by modifying the computational grid to replicate the flow blockage produced by the deposit. A second challenge is properly accounting for the role of surface temperature on deposition. The objective of the proposed effort is to extend the RST to account for the effects of deposit accumulation on flowfield blockage and thermal interaction with the engine structure. CRAFT Tech will partner with the Ohio State University to extend the RST modeling capabilities with mesh-morphing linked to the deposit thickness, coupling of a conjugate heat transfer model accounting for deposit buildup, and extension of the RST deposition model to account for surface temperature and slag deposit properties. These enhancements will provide OEM’s and design/analysis personnel the capability to accurately characterize the effects of deposit buildup on gas turbine performance, maintenance, and structural damage. |
| W51701-23-C-0102 | Non-HFC Multi-Agent Suppressant Fire Extinguishing System | $249,926 | [www.csefire.com COMBUSTION SCIENCE & ENGINEERING, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | A234-002 | 04/27/2023 | 04/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA2394-23-C-B070 | A New VHF Embedded Resistive Materials Measurement System | $1,249,190 | COMPASS TECHNOLOGY GROUP, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D011 | 09/05/2023 | 12/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Advanced aircraft incorporate resistive materials into their structures and these materials need to be inspected and maintained. Current methods for inspection of these materials may include 4-point probes such as the Loresta or Hiresta probes. However, s |
| FA2394-23-C-B033 | A New Surface Impedance Probe for Microwave Measurement of Curved Surfaces | $1,249,431 | COMPASS TECHNOLOGY GROUP, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D010 | 09/12/2023 | 09/12/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Currently, a waveguide cavity probe operating at C-band (4-8 GHz) is used to check the surface impedance of electrically conductive surfaces on advanced aircraft. This probe is built as a resonator because conventional free-space probes lack sufficient se |
| N68335-23-C-0668 | Miniaturized End Effectors | $1,497,012 | COMPASS SYSTEMS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N204-A01 | 08/31/2023 | 09/04/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Compass systems Inc. and its team possess the intellectual knowledge base and have sufficient expertise in robotic systems to develop miniaturized end effectors capable of performing maintenance and inspection operations. Our principal investigator has direct knowledge and experience in naval aviation maintenance processes through his past work experience at a fleet readiness center. By leveraging our expertise in research and development, we plan to design a miniaturized end effector (M-EEF) for a robotic maintenance platform that will integrate with a robotic arm and a ROV Crawler Unit. The developed end effectors will be designed to automate the current manual labor intensive maintenance processes. Upon completion of our design and development efforts, we will be able to provide a feasibility comparison for the robotic maintenance platform and mini-end effectors for existing naval maintenance processes. The concept is to have these advanced maintenance systems augment the current maintainer’s abilities and capacity by applying smart repeatable artificial intelligence technologies. This effort would ultimately increase readiness while decreasing scheduled maintenance downtime for aircraft, ships, ground support equipment and other DoD components. |
| SP4701-23-P-0059 | Engaging the Manufacturing Industrial Base in Support of DLA’s Critical Supply Chains | $99,847 | COMPASS SYSTEMS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | DLA231-001 | 08/16/2023 | 08/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Compass Systems Inc. has extensive design and manufacturing expertise in the Cable Harness industry. Our team of engineers and manufacturing technicians are well suited to support the technical review of fragmented/incomplete documentation, system inspection (if required), TDP generation, and the SAR submission for NSN 615013643908. Compass Systems Inc. also possess extensive past performance with NAVAIR and a broad range of mission critical programs and cable harness requirements. As an aerospace AS9100 registered design and manufacturing firm Compass Systems is very familiar with the rigorous requirements around mission critical cable assemblies of this type. In addition, our procurement activities over the last 15 years has Compass Systems uniquely positioned within the industry to have access to all the necessary raw material suppliers. |
| FA8571-23-C-0026 | Advanced Big Data Tools for Adaptive X-ray Evaluation System | $1,799,935 | COMPASS TECHNOLOGY GROUP, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF183-035 | 05/03/2023 | 05/03/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed TACFI effort will expand Big Data concepts from microwave NDE systems at Robins AFB to the Adaptive X-ray Evaluation System (AXES), which is currently under construction. X-ray imagery is used to detect foreign objects and debris (FOD) withi |
| FA8649-23-P-0007 | Dense Monocular 3D Sensing for Autonomous Aerial Systems | $1,241,774 | COMPOUND EYE INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 12/26/2022 | 09/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The United States Air Force 2030 Science and Technology Strategy addresses a new era of great power competition where the Air Force can no longer assume technological superiority over potential adversaries. Recent conflicts have confirmed that rival powers are investing in artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous platforms and weapons, denial of GPS, and alternatives to GPS for their own forces. In response, the 2030 Strategy calls for several transformational capabilities to be driven by scientific and engineering advances. These capabilities will include Global Persistent Awareness, Resilient Information Sharing, and Rapid Effective Decision Making that in turn require advancements in sensing, self-contained positioning and navigation, AI, and autonomous systems among other technologies. Where possible the Air Force will leverage commercial investment in these technologies, which greatly exceeds the resources of the Defense Department. Compound Eye is a leading commercial developer of 3D sensing and perception technology for autonomous vehicles and other robots. The company’s VIDAS technology (“Visual Inertial Distributed Aperture System”) uses off-the-shelf, automotive-grade cameras, inertial sensors, and AI to build a dense 3D representation of the world around a vehicle in real time. This information is critical for an autonomous system to avoid static and dynamic obstacles and can enable self-contained positioning, mitigating or eliminating the need for external positioning systems like GPS. VIDAS has drawn interest from the DoD because it delivers the same information as active sensors such as lidar and radar for a fraction of the size, weight, power, and cost, all with zero signature. However, the current commercial version of VIDAS relies in part on wide baseline stereo sensing, which is not suitable for small unmanned platforms. For these applications AFRL (AFRL/RWWI) has challenged Compound Eye to develop a version of VIDAS that requires only a single camera. The primary objectives of the proposed effort are: 1. Verify experimentally that monocular depth from optic flow and semantic cues can provide robust, accurate, real-time depth measurements 2. Develop and validate a monocular version of VIDAS for aerial platforms 3. Modify the commercial Developer Kit for VIDAS to support monocular depth and train AF Customers to use the technology |
| W51701-23-C-0020 | Compound Eye VIDAS: Long Range Sensing and Perception for Autonomous Off-Road Vehicles | $1,699,139 | COMPOUND EYE INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A224-009 | 12/15/2022 | 06/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| N68335-23-C-0152 | Air traffic Cloud-based TrainER (ACTER) | $789,738 | CONCEPTS BEYOND, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N211-010 | 12/06/2022 | 12/23/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | We are proposing to design and develop “ACTER” – Air traffic Cloud-based TrainER, in collaboration with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU). Our proposed game will be a tablet-based casual gaming platform with multiple mini games designed to provide Sailors with the means to practice skills they would find in a professional environment, with cloud-integrated features to allow use from anywhere in the world. Our team of researchers will develop the Assisted Guidance Engine, a machine learning-based algorithm used for generating “missions” utilized by ACTER’s various mini games. These missions will be tuned to the Sailor’s individual learning progress in the respective task-based mini game to maximize their education. Our proposed game will be in the form of a casual gaming platform consisting of multiple mini games. Each mini game is directly tied to an Air Traffic Control (ATC) specific activity to provide targeted practice in both the fundamentals as well as outlier scenarios such as animals on the runway. These will include Flight Data/Clearance Delivery, Ground Control, Local Control, ASR Final Control, PAR Final Control, and Arrival Control. Players will advance in a progression system where they start from a Ground Controller rank with defined rank badge color, operations, growing number of traffic, and event as they progress through the rank. Once the player unlocks all events and capabilities in their rank, they are promoted to the next rank. The events and capability milestones will be built by our ATC instructors based on the Navy’s curriculum and syllabus. Missions will be generated based on historical data of real-life operations or instructor generated, where the Assisted Guidance Engine verifies and adapts the scenario events and player activity requirements to the player’s rank. A feedback loop in the game will suggest missions to the player based on their past performance. The game platform will be single-player with the ability to compare personal statistics against fellow classmates. Each mini game will provide respective metrics to both the Sailor and instructors. Instructors will be able to review metrics for individual Sailors as well as aggregated metrics for the class and each mini game on a tailored website. Instructors will also have the ability on the website to override the Assisted Guidance Engine and assign manually-defined missions to the Sailors, both on an individual or class scale. Based on our research and experience, there are a few online ATC related games that are low fidelity games that are not intended for training purposes and are mostly developed for amusement. In contrast, our application will be able to be played on any current Android or iPad tablet. It will aid the Sailors learning progress using generated missions tailored to their strengths and weaknesses. The platform will also provide detailed metrics on global and individual levels to inform the instructors on their class performance. |
| FA8649-23-P-1095 | AI Assistance for Derivative Classification and Redaction | $1,073,424 | [ CONDUCTORAI CORPORATION] | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/14/2023 | 01/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Classifying and marking documents in the Department of Defense is largely a manual process. Manual classification is challenging, time-consuming, resource-intensive, and sometimes inconsistent. Recent advancements in AI and large language models (LLMs) ar |
| FA8649-23-P-0937 | Securing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in Document Sharing and Document Request | $69,888 | CONFIDENCIAL INC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Confidencial.io is a spin-out from SRI International and built upon privacy-enabling technologies developed in two previous DARPA programs, BRANDEIS and Reliable Anonymous Communications for Everyone (RACE). SRI performs advanced research projects for U.S. government agencies including DARPA, the U.S. military services including the Department of Air Force (DAF), IARPA and the NSF. ???????Confidencial protects documents and the information within them, offering document creators and owners the ability to control data—even when it has been shared with others or accidentally spilled or compromised. Our technology protects words in a sentence, cells in a spreadsheet, or even groups of pixels within an image. This auditable tool greatly simplifies data sharing in high-compliance environments (like the financial and health care sectors) and high-stakes pursuits (like national security and defense) when using widely-used software suites. Confidencial combines techniques to both control and speed up information shared between the DOD, DAF, and allies and partners. The DAF cannot adapt commercial technology to its needs for SecAF Operational Imperatives—all of them—without protecting communications and data containing Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Confidencial permits protection of CUI between academia, industry, and the DAF. DAF and DOD sponsor research projects which form the technical, quantitative, and qualitative overmatch the DAF wants over all adversaries. However, those projects often generate, share, and communicate CUI data and even classified data—making this a potential vulnerability of interest to DAF and DOD adversaries for targeting, collection, and exploitation. Confidential counts 12 pilot projects with over 400 users as of February 2023. Confidencial has pilots with financial institutions and pharmaceutical companies in the U.S., Japan, and Australia. We anticipate additional pilots with U.S. aerospace firms, additional financial and pharmaceutical institutions in Q2 of CY23. Confidencial integrates into software suites with wide adoption—including Microsoft Office (incl. Teams), PDF, Google Suite, Slack, Salesforce as well as data stored in AWS and Microsoft Azure. Confidencial also offers a pathway towards protecting data against decryption by a quantum computer by seamlessly upgrading to PQC encryption once the standards are finalized by NIST. Team: Confidencial: Razmik Abnous, Co-Founder/CEO (prior CTO, Documentum, sold for $1.7B to Dell EMC; Co-Founder, CTO, Vineti which raised $110M); Dr. Karim Eldefrawy, Co-Founder/CTO (prior SRI & HRL Labs; 75+ publications in cybersecurity/cryptography, 28+ patents, $25M+ funding from DARPA, IARPA, DHS, and NSF); and Dr. Dane Wheeler (HRL, University of Notre Dame, 25 pubs and 4 patents). SRI: Tim Ellis, Solutions Architect (prior BAE Systems). |
| W51701-23-C-0104 | Solid-State Cooling System Utilizing Ionic Liquid Heat Transfer | $248,542 | CONNECTICUT ANALYTICAL CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | A234-003 | 04/03/2023 | 04/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8649-23-P-0306 | Securing the Supply Chain Using Blockchain Encryption and Digital Tokens | $74,962 | CONSTELLATION SOFTWARE ENGINEERING, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Russian and Chinese backed companies are engaging in economic warfare with the U.S. by infiltrating the industrial base supply chain through technology start ups, venture capital, and other indirect means. The Air Force is committed to developing a supply chain integrity software application to ensure the Air Force has a way to monitor visibility without adding additional vendor requirements which drive up cost. Supply chain transparency and accountability become paramount to the US Air Force as systems become more complex and technical. Constellation Software Engineering has already developed their ConTrack application to solve this problem using distributed ledger technology such as blockchain and digital tokens. ConTrack traces a contract’s supply chain history, increasing transparency along the path of federal funds to make reporting easier for all parties, including contracting officers, industry, and DoD auditors. |
| FA8651-23-P-A002 | Perfect Timing Imaging Seeker | $149,427 | [www.continentalctrls.com CONTINENTAL CONTROLS AND DESIGN, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0004 | 12/13/2022 | 09/16/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Imaging seekers have some remarkable advantages over traditional quad cell based laser seekers. The vast increase in information allows for many new capabilities, but current imagers lack the incredibly high bandwidth of quad cell detectors, which has been relied on for target discrimination. In seeking to replace quad cell SAL seekers with imaging SAL seekers, a priority is to first replicate everything a quad cell can do, before exploring the additional flexibility and freedom that comes with full image information. In order to actually get the seeker fielded in a reasonable amount of time, it is preferable to recreate existing methods as closely as possible in order to minimize the required testing. We propose a novel way of integrating the timing and spatial information available with COTS SWIR imagers to closely approximate preexisting LSPL algorithms despite the bandwidth limitation. |
| FA8649-23-P-0898 | Decentralized Identity Access Management (dIAM) | $74,424 | CONSTELLATION SOFTWARE ENGINEERING, LLC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Identity-first security is critical for zero-trust because it enables organizations to implement strong and effective access controls based on their users’ specific needs. By continuously verifying the identity of users and devices, organizations can redu |
| FA8649-23-P-0399 | Smart Contracts for Supply Chain Security | $74,888 | CONSTELLATION SOFTWARE ENGINEERING, LLC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Prior to COVID 19, the Department of Defense tracked $193 Million in Waste during a 5-month period, and the investigations that followed led to 140 convictions, 87 suspensions, and 99 debarments. The recent remote work and distance environment has led to a major increase and concern with Fraud, Waste, and Abuse. The Air Force is committed to developing a supply chain integrity software application to ensure the Air Force has a way to monitor visibility without adding additional vendor requirements which drive up cost. Supply chain transparency and accountability become paramount to the US Air Force as systems become more complex and technical. Constellation Software Engineering (CSEngineering) has already developed Smart Contracts to solve this problem using distributed ledger technology. Our Smart Contracts trace a contract recipient’s supply chain history, increasing transparency along the path of federal funds to make reporting easier for all parties, including contracting officers and DoD auditors. |
| FA8649-23-P-0877 | DataConnect Agility Platform: Secure and Decentralized Messaging | $74,656 | CONSTELLATION SOFTWARE ENGINEERING, LLC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Current text-based communication solutions in use by DAF rely on centralized servers from commercial vendors. In the event of a conflict with a peer adversary, any information system dependency or critical node may become a significant vulnerability (DAF |
| W51701-23-C-0191 | Highly Efficient 15kW CLLC Resonant Converter System for Military Vehicles, Built Using Wide Bandgap-Based Power Electronics | $1,699,999 | COOLCAD ELECTRONICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A214-030 | 08/02/2023 | 08/08/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | We propose to advance the wide bandgap (WBG) semiconductor-based DC-DC bidirectional power conversion technology one step closer to its commercialization through making it a highly efficient, power dense, electromagnetic interference (EMI) compliant, fault tolerant, and cost-effective solution. Our Phase I project ended up with successful development and functionality verification of a Silicon Carbide (SiC) / Gallium Nitride (GaN) hybrid solution-based 2kW 600V-28V (nominal) DC-DC CLLC resonant converter with bidirectional power flow capability and 96.4% peak efficiency at full load, and >93% efficiency at light loads in either power flow direction. The Phase II effort will make this solution scalable up to 15kW, while improving the peak conversion efficiency to 97% through multi-variable switching modulation optimization, soft-switching under wide voltage gain operation, optimized design of magnetics, high-performance time-optimal control methodologies, and superior thermal stability. Specific emphasis will be provided on thermal management system design optimization, high-density packaging considerations, uniformization of the efficiency profiles in 600V-28V and 28V-600V conversion modes, and high-frequency switching enabled power density enhancement for ARINC 600 6MCU compliance. Power electronics miniaturization will further be brought in by fabricating the in-house CoolCAD SiC transistors tailored towards loss minimization demands. The converter optimization will be achieved iteratively using measurements and novel control algorithms, and through parasitic minimized PCB-integrated planar transformers. The technical objectives of the Phase II project are as follows: (a) A lightweight power conversion with enhanced power density: With the aid of (a) high-frequency planar transformers with controllable leakage inductance, and (b) low heat flux of power dissipation per power device, the magnetics and thermal management systems will be reduced in size by a considerable margin, leading to a projected weight and volume of 12.8 kg and 11.36L, and hence a gravimetric and specific power densities of 1.17kW/kg and 1.32kW/L, respectively. (b) Bidirectional power flow management with output voltage regulation: We will implement bidirectional power flow control and management strategies with circulating reactive power minimization and hence maximum efficiency tracking for the CLLC converter system. (c) Peak efficiency and light-load efficiency improvement through hybrid duty/frequency modulation: The converter is projected to exhibit a peak efficiency of 98% (at 70% rated load), rated load efficiency of 97.3% and a light load (10% rated) efficiency of 93.4%, with ~0.5% improvement compared to Phase I results. The efficiency enhancement will be accomplished by multi-variable modulation enabled RMS current minimization, synchronous rectification, and hence near-zero turn-off losses on the load-side full-bridge, and wide-range zero voltage switching (ZVS). |
| W911QX-23-P-0033 | Next Generation SiC APD Deep-UV Single-Photon Detectors | $111,497 | COOLCAD ELECTRONICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | A22-006 | 01/25/2023 | 07/24/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | In this Phase I program, CoolCAD Electronics proposes to build on our extensive experience with modeling, designing, fabricating and characterizing SiC devices and circuits, in particular optoelectronic devices and circuits, to fabricate new generations of avalanche photodiodes (APDs) in an effort to meet the needs of the U.S. Army and of broader applications. The ultimate target of a three-phase program is the development of a small module (<9x9x4 cm3) incorporating a detector with single photon detection efficiency >15%, dark count rate density <1MHz/mm2, and maximum photon count rate >1MHz, across a minimum 50-nm window within the 200-375 nm UV spectrum, with visible light rejection ratio >1000. We choose SiC as our semiconductor material due to its high sensitivity in the target spectrum range, its inherent visible blindness, and low intrinsic carrier concentration allowing for a lower dark current level, all else being equal. Our previous generation SiC APDs exhibit high sensitivity and low dark count with excellent visible light rejection. Through the course of this Phase I program we will refine their performance by following a multi-pronged approach: First, we will fabricate new diodes using SiC wafers with an improved epitaxial structure, which should result in lower dark current and dark count and impact sensitivity and spectral range. During this fabrication, we will also improve the fabrication process, particularly the method to passivate the exposed sidewall regions of the sensor devices, which can also reduce dark count. Simultaneously, we will use our extensive background in physics-based SiC device modeling to design the next generation of APDs, with refined wafer structures, doping parameters, and geometry. The target will be to enhance the intrinsic gain of the avalanching mechanism within the bulk of the device, while suppressing leakage current generation and amplification on the surface or elsewhere. We will also use our process modeling experience to further improve passivation processes by modeling. Our device development will go hand in hand with readout circuit development as we create compact models of fabricated and simulated devices and use these to optimize, in particular, a Geiger-mode counter circuit. In conjunction with this effort, we will develop improved packaging solutions for our sensors, allowing us to prepare for the eventual design of an integrated modular sensor. As a first step on this path, we will integrate the diodes fabricated during this Phase I with a Geiger-mode circuit implemented on a small printed circuit board. This entire effort will be supported and guided by an extensive test and characterization program, allowing us to demonstrate a clear pathway to fully meeting and exceeding all the required specifications in a potential Phase II and beyond. |
| W51701-23-C-0064 | Multi-spectral Electromagnetic Target Silhouette | $1,699,958 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase II | A214-021 | 04/20/2023 | 04/24/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA2391-23-C-0003 | Advanced Li-Metal, High-Power Battery | $1,799,791 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX20D-TCSO1 | 07/17/2023 | 08/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force needs safe, high runtime and high-power aircraft batteries. The cells have to eliminate safety risks associated with flammable electrolyte and be able to operate across a wide range of temperatures delivering high power and long cycle life. |
| FA2394-23-C-B047 | On-Demand Portable Pad for Vertical Landed Rockets | $1,249,990 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase II | SF224-D024 | 09/01/2023 | 11/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Throughout the history of the US Military, logistics have often occupied a place of pride amongst our capability set. This is attested to both through quotes from senior leaders, such as Gen. Omar Bradley’s, “Amateurs study tactics; professionals study lo |
| SP4701-23-C-0043 | Rapid, Affordable C-C Using MG Resin | $999,831 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase II | DLA222-007 | 08/03/2023 | 08/02/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | High temperature resistant materials, including carbon-carbon (C-C) are critical to enabling the thermal protection of hypersonic DoD weapons. A specific focus of the Defense Logistics Agency is on innovation for improved production rate and affordability for C-C thermal protection systems and delivery of that innovation to DoD system manufacturers. Cornerstone Research Group Inc. (CRG) proposes to use MG resin systems to demonstrate dramatic improvements in speed of production for C-C components for DoD hypersonic vehicles. MG resin has a char yield of over 70% and only needs to reach carbon state 3 to have comparable properties to carbon state 4 Huntsman benzoxazine, and carbon state 6 phenolic ACC-6. This reduction in densification steps from 6 to 4 to 3 results in a reduction in fabrication labor hours of 28% compared to Huntsman benzoxazine, and 43% compared to ACC-6. In the same capital equipment, MG resin uses 81% less furnace time than Huntsman benzoxazine, and 82% less furnace time than the benchmark ACC-6 C-C material, when fabricating 1” thick medium frustrum parts which results in significant cost reductions. Along with improvements in processing speed, CRG will also demonstrate the pathway to improved affordability through high volume materials production and efficient use of high cost capital equipment. CRG has recently announced a partnership with Karman Space and Defense and their divisions Systima Technologies and AAE to scale up the production of MG resin and insert MG resin technology into a wide variety of DoD and space-based applications. MG resin systems provide a unique advantage to Karman-Systima and Karman-AAE to improve performance, lead times, and affordability for ablative shrouds, rocket nozzles, rocket motor cases and liners, and carbon-carbon acreage and seal structures. Karman-Systima is currently producing hardware for multiple DoD hypersonic systems and is well positioned to insert this technology into multiple systems for the ultimate benefit of the DoD. Karman-AAE uses over 100,000 pounds of phenolic prepreg a year in manufacturing a wide variety of ablative nozzles and other high temperature components for DoD applications. Use of MG resin systems in place of phenolic will help improve leadtimes and reduce costs. The CRG/Karman team will demonstrate a new, integrated supply chain option for C-C components for hypersonic vehicles based on MG resins under this SBIR program and the follow on efforts. This program will position CRG/Karman to insert this technology into current and future DoD platforms and provide leadtime and cost reductions to those platforms. |
| N68335-23-C-0376 | High-Rate Low-Cost UAV Manufacturing Solution | $139,633 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-069 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The perceived objective is to generate a method that enables low-cost lightweight airframes produced in a way conducive to high- rate manufacturing. The production of air vehicles must rapidly increase in order to prepare for a war of attrition and increase the United States’ air superiority. As the desire for rapid development and production of composite air vehicles increases, the need for faster fabrication processes becomes more important. One of the more time-consuming elements of the aircraft fabrication process is the assembly of all the complex components required to create the air vehicle shape and structure. Typical aircraft assembly processes include individual skin and internal structure pieces that are mechanically fastened together or, in some cases, bonded together. The process for creating the provisions for fastening (typically hole drilling) and bonding, as well as the process for holding the pieces in the correct locations during assembly (use of assembly jigs), requires significant time and capital expense. In addition, these processes require inspection steps to ensure they were performed correctly. Ultimately, these labor- and capital-intensive processes increase the lead-time and cost of assembled aircraft structures. An alternate approach to reduce or eliminate these steps is desired to achieve goals of more rapid air vehicle development and production. Compression molding is a rapid composite forming process that forms and cures in minutes rather than hours, allows for a wide range of shapes and thickness, and allows for objects such as metal bosses to be imbedded into parts during forming. Typically used for compression molding is sheet molding compound (SMC), which is widely available in carbon and fiberglass options. This technology is proven to produce low-cost parts, with production part cost of under $200 per pound, not including NRE and tooling. This high-rate manufacturing process consists of rapidly cutting the SMC with a ply cutter, loading the material into the mold, closing the press and keeping it closed for 2 to 10 minutes, then removing the formed part from the mold to cool. |
| W51701-23-C-0096 | Micro-Reserve Battery | $1,699,828 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase II | A214-008 | 04/03/2023 | 04/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0146 | Toughened, Weather Resistant Carbon-Carbon | $139,943 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase I | N222-127 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Cornerstone Research Group Inc. proposes to advance the state-of-the-art in mechanically toughened, weather resistant CMC composites by combining recent advances in 2.5D and 3D architecture technologies, and plasma deposition processes, with a CRG proprietary resin system called MG Resin. Addressing the need for affordable hot structures, MG Resin has proven to be an excellent material for replacing legacy pitch and phenolic resins in the production of C/C composites. The MG Resin chemistry is highly tailorable and is compatible with both liquid infusion and prepreg processing. During carbonization it forms a strong char with very high yield (>70%), and is able to produce C/C composites with densities greater that 1.6 g/cc within two PIP densification cycles. Reducing the number of densification cycles reduces the total lead time to produce a part, which directly correlates to a massive reduction in cost due to the labor savings. CRG will work with University of Dayton Research Institute to leverage their expertise in z-stitching for carbon fiber preforms to obtain through thickness reinforcement. These preforms and MG resin will be used to make the C/C material. CRG will also work with Plasma Processes to leverage their expertise in plasma deposition processes that have shown promise in application on and protection of C/C material. Plasma Processes will apply plasma deposition coatings to CRG’s z-stitched MG-based C/C. The objective of this effort is to augment the benefits of cost and performance through plasma deposition of a versatile coating system designed to enhance thermal, and dielectric properties, impart oxidation resistance, and decrease weather related erosion. |
| FA2384-23-P-B007 | Advanced Solid-State Cell for Oxygen Production | $149,995 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF224-0013 | 09/05/2023 | 06/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | On-board oxygen generation systems (OBOGS) provide oxygen compensation to pilots at altitude where oxygen partial pressure falls below safe levels. These systems conventionally utilize pressure swing adsorption (PSA) to separate and concentrate oxygen fro |
| W51701-23-C-0117 | Diver Performance Monitoring System (DPMS) | $149,984 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-004 | 04/03/2023 | 07/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W31P4Q-23-C-0010 | Man-Portable Powered Parafoil for Personal Air Mobility | $1,499,979 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-05 | 12/14/2022 | 12/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Many military missions are based on the movement of individuals to the right location at the right time, while also ensuring that these individuals are able to exfiltrate to safe areas. Part of the military tactical advantage is often based on the ability to make these movements covertly, across a variety of weather conditions and operational environments. Special Operations Forces are largely built on the assumption that covert movement of small numbers of people can be performed. This capability is also advantageous for urban combat operation and Combat Search and Rescue. Hence, the capability for reliable solo air transportation confers military advantage, and this advantage is dependent on the portability of the mechanism, range of flight provided, robustness of the transportation mechanism, and ability to ascend and descend in a small area. CRG proposes to develop, demonstrate, and deliver a man-portable system for personal air mobility. This system will provide enhanced capabilities for personal air mobility over currently available systems. |
| FA5606-23-C-0011 | FOD Extraction System | $179,935 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0014 | 08/31/2023 | 05/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The presence of Foreign Object Debris (FOD) on airport runways poses significant safety risks to airplanes during takeoff and landing. In order to mitigate these risks, CRG proposes to develop a wheeled robot that can autonomously search for and collect F |
| FA8571-23--C0024 | A Zero Trust Platform for Machines to Build a Secure Digital Thread from the Shop Floor to the Cloud | $1,800,000 | CORSHA, INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF211-DCSO2 | 04/27/2023 | 10/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Corsha provides a Zero Trust framework that allows secure movement of data from machines that may be preexisting, nonstandard or inadequate in terms of their connectivity and security. This work coalesces well with current priorities in AFSC around establ |
| N68335-23-C-0345 | CO2 Derived Nanomaterials for Naval Composites | $139,971 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T020 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Carbon sequestration, the process of converting atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) into more benign and/or useful forms, continues to advance in efforts to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change. Climate change continues to be a disruptive force, adding to the concerns of maritime defense. It threatens the capacity to respond in the wake of emergencies due to increased demands on Naval forces as a result of worsening extreme weather events. As a result, the U.S. Navy has designated the need for greenhouse gas emissions reduction and reliable ability to draw CO2 from the environment in effort to achieve net-zero emissions as one of its highest priorities. The Navy has demonstrated select technologies to utilize the sequestered CO2 in support of their operations and objectives. However, additional end-uses and value propositions are needed to truly make carbon dioxide sequestration an economically viable and operationally relevant approach to Naval environmental and performance objectives. To this end, the Navy currently employs anti-fouling and anti-corrosion coatings on the hulls of surface and subsurface ships. These coatings are expensive to apply and maintain and their use often has negative environmental impacts as well. The development of advanced coatings utilizing carbon nanomaterials, derived from sequestered carbon dioxide, could provide substantial operational improvements while also representing a large carbon “sink” for the sequestered CO2. In addressing these broad and compelling needs, Cornerstone Research Group (CRG), in collaboration with Iowa State University, proposes to identify, develop, and demonstrate an efficient and valuable method of utilizing carbonaceous nanomaterials sequestered from atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) within advanced composite materials optimized for Naval applications. Iowa State has demonstrated foundational research in the area of CO2 sequestration and conversion into a variety of carbonaceous material morphologies. Similarly, CRG has extensive experience utilizing a variety of functional additives, including carbon nanomaterials within thermoplastic, thermoset, and elastomeric composites specifically designed for Department of Defense applications. These two, synergistic core competencies of the proposing team present the U.S. Navy with the opportunity to rapidly develop and demonstrate the ability to utilize sequestered atmospheric carbon dioxide for a host of naval composite applications. |
| N68335-23-C-0296 | Optimized Turbine Blade Cooling and Defect Mitigation for Additive Manufacturing | $999,977 | CORNERSTONE RESEARCH GROUP INC | SBIR | Phase II | N221-074 | 08/22/2023 | 08/11/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Cornerstone Research Group proposes to develop a computational framework for optimization of turbine engine blades with cooling flow paths enabled by additive manufacturing. This framework will be driven by mechanical, thermal, and fluid responses produced using coupled finite element models as well as a machine learning based defect prediction model. The defect prediction model will be trained using features extracted from the blade geometry, the AM process parameters (orientation, scan variables, powder properties), and projected thermal history from solidification modeling to incorporate cooling rate. Phase I will established feasibility of the defect prediction algorithm using a limited amount of NDT data from experimental fabrication efforts as well as the manufacturing capability to produce the type of geometries anticipated during follow on phases with suitable properties. Phase II will enhance the defection prediction and optimization methodology to guide turbine blade design for subsequent additive production and experimental cooling performance evaluation. |
| W15QKN-23-C-0048 | Design Framework for Hierarchical Phase Change Materials for Thermal Management in Long Range Precision Fire Munitions | $1,099,998 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | STTR | Phase II | A20B-T001 | 09/28/2023 | 09/27/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Long Range Precision Fire (LRPF) systems are an important class of advanced weapon systems which can engage targets at long ranges with high degrees of accuracy. The Army seeks novel material solutions such as Phase Change Materials (PCM)s for LRPF Platforms to improve thermal management and structural integrity while exposed to extreme. Corvid proposes utilizing a multi-length scale modeling and simulation strategy pioneered in the Phase I, in order to create a novel layered thick surface coating design which combines Stainless Steel (SS) with multiple solid-solid PCMs to create a surface coating that has a gradated hierarchal response to increasing temperature while maintaining strength in extreme loading conditions. Corvid has secured a LOS from American Rheinmetall Inc who is interested in incorporating the material solution proposed in this effort into an LRPF under development at Rheinmetall. The M&S framework developed under the Phase I effort spans three different length scales from the atomistic to the continuum. At the smallest length scale, Corvid will use atomistic techniques such as DFT to predict novel PCM formulations with tailored thermomechanical properties through investigations into doping of Solid-Solid PCMs Germanium Telluride, Silver Selenide, and Barium Titanate. On the meso-scale, Corvid will leverage it’s in house topology optimization code to create novel PCM meta material designs which will optimize the homogenized mechanical strength of 3D PCM-SS metamaterials incorporating the PCMs mentioned previously. Investigations will also be conducted into optimization of heat dissipation (thermal conductivity) as a possible metric of interest. The effectiveness of the meta material will then be tested utilizing Corvid’s coupled thermal-structural solver built into its massively parallel hydro-structural code Velodyne and the homogenized properties confirmed from the topology optimization. Those properties will then be used on the continuum length scale in Velodyne under both mild and extreme loading conditions calculated using Corvid’s in-house computation fluid dynamics (CFD) software Raven, in order to gauge the effectiveness of the design. Corvid will also be partnering with PennState University for initial prototyping of Corvid’s novel PCM meta-material designs as well as investigations into transition of the prototype manufacturing techniques into a production level technique that allows for onboarding of the material solution to an LRPF platform under development at Rheinmetall. |
| N68335-23-C-0140 | Thermal Protection System Simulation for Hardware-in-the-Loop | $139,998 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N222-123 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Corvid Technologies, LLC (Corvid) and Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) propose developing a framework on a modern software architecture utilizing high fidelity, state-of-the-art modeling tools to provide an accurate, but efficient, prediction of the ablating TPS material response in real-time. Three different TPS modeling approaches will be evaluated during Phase I in terms of accuracy, simplicity, robustness and computational speed in order to select the best option to be deployed in a real-time Navy computational platform. The framework will be modular and flexible to continue expanding the capability and be informed by additional experimental data-sets as they become available. Finally, Corvid and Georgia Tech will develop a preliminary test plan for the TPS material(s) chosen by the US Navy. |
| N64267-23-C-0036 | Characterization of the Radiation Environment Capabilities of Exploding Foil Initiators (EFIs) | $139,995 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-074 | 07/18/2023 | 01/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | In response to the Navy’s need to investigate and demonstrate the ability of low energy exploding foil initiators (LEEFIs or EFIs) to function in the Strategic Systems Programs’ Trident II (D5) missile system, Corvid Technologies proposes to develop a concept for characterizing EFI bridge foil parameters during and after exposure to harsh radiation environments. Corvid will combine the experience of our advanced warhead design group and our radiation detection and testing group to develop a robust radiation effects testing plan. Our warhead group has performed dozens of energetics detonation tests using LEEFIs, while the radiation group has built novel radiation detectors and successfully carried out detector testing using radioactive sources and accelerated particle beams. Combining our warhead design and radiation testing capabilities uniquely positions Corvid to model, simulate, and live test EFIs exposed to high radiation environments to ensure compliance with the MIL-STD-1316 and MIL-STD-1901 standards. Upon completion of Phase I, we will deliver a plan to characterize EFIs with an accompanying analysis-based handbook that includes military specification pass/fail criteria, radiation and particle transport simulation results, and recommendations for EFI design advancement. These deliverables will support the Navy and SSP’s mission to maintain and modernize the Trident II (D5) missile system. |
| FA8651-23-C-A026 | Munition Development for Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricant (POL) Targets | $749,993 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF212-0005 | 06/08/2023 | 06/07/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The United States Air Force has a need for a weapon that can catastrophically defeat a variety of petroleum, oil, and lubricant (POL) targets. Consumption of the target contents by burning is the most desirable outcome of an attack. The burning of POL also has the potential to extend damage beyond the POL target due to heat and secondary fires. Fire-start of POL long chain hydrocarbons is challenging because of high flash points that increase the safety of their use. Effective fire-start in POLs will require an ignition source and burn accelerant built into the weapon. Furthermore, the fire-start approach must be effective for a variety of high flash point chemicals. In response to the Air Force’s need, Corvid Technologies (Corvid) is developing a reactive liner capable of form fitting to existing traditional and future missile body warhead cavities, capable of igniting POL from high explosive detonation and sustaining burn within a tank structure. Corvid will leverage their expansive computational resources and knowledgeable computational analysts with the capacity to model and simulate the unique physics demands of this proposed work. Corvid also has the expertise to safely plan and execute testing of this reactive liner in the development of this solution. By the completion of Phase II, we will have virtually engineered through simulation an understanding of the dynamic environment of a tactical tank penetration and explosive detonation within a fluid. Further Corvid will have test data to show the reactive liner effectiveness at igniting POL, as well as a suite of simulations to validate with the test data. Corvid has a history of coordination with many large primes, and should the AF indicate need on a specific platform, Corvid will partner with that prime for follow-on work in a Phase III. |
| FA8650-23-P-6475 | Development of a High-Fidelity DoD 5th Percentile Female Finite Element Model | $149,983 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF221-0017 | 12/20/2022 | 08/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Corvid Technologies, LLC (Corvid) and Zygote Media Group (Zygote) propose to develop a high-fidelity 5th percentile female finite element (FE) model of the human body capable of injury prediction for evaluation of aircraft safety systems performance during dynamic loading events. The proposed approach will utilize female-specific computer aided design (CAD) geometries based upon medical imaging data from female subjects to ensure accurate creation of the virtual female model. Corvid is uniquely positioned to efficiently accomplish the objectives of this topic due to its previous involvement in the development of the Computational Anthropomorphic Virtual Experiment MAN (CAVEMAN) high-fidelity male human body model developed for human injury prediction for the Department of Defense, years of experience in modeling and simulation of human injury risk, and its in-house, high-performance computing (HPC) resources and software development capabilities. Partnership with Zygote will provide valuable access and insight into the female specific CAD and expertise necessary to ensure the final FE model truly represents the female form. To develop the high-fidelity 5th percentile female model, Phase I efforts will utilize a combination of CAD generation, meshing, and morphing techniques. The proposed solution will leverage and build upon existing anatomy and FE models on hand to accelerate the development of the female FE model. Zygote currently has CAD developed for the female integumentary system, skeletal system, and organs derived directly from female medical anatomy scans. The muscular tissue is more difficult to segment from medical imaging data as distinct boundaries for each muscle are often difficult or impossible to recognize. Thus, the existing CAVEMAN musculature will be morphed into the female form using the female skin and skeletal CAD for guidance. The morphed soft tissues will then be compared to the female medical imaging data and modified as necessary to align with the soft tissue landmarks. Upon completion of this process, the high-fidelity female FE model will have distinct meshed parts for all bones, muscles, ligaments, cartilage, organs, and skin tissues within the human body developed from female medical imaging data. The mesh model will be combined with validated biological materials models and assembled using accurate soft tissue insertions to complete the high-fidelity 5th percentile female model. The proposed effort will utilize the same techniques applied within the CAVEMAN model to establish parity in the development of the Computational Anthropomorphic Virtual Experiment WOMAN (CAVEWOMAN) model under this SBIR effort. This will provide a solid foundation moving into Phase II to apply existing repositioning, scaling, and muscle activation methods, resulting in a family of validated, posable, high-fidelity female human body models capable of injury predictions with both active and passive musculature. |
| W51701-23-C-0060 | Risk Assessment Modeling Tool (RAMOT) | $1,700,000 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A214-028 | 04/03/2023 | 10/11/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0387 | Development of Finite-Rate Ablation Toolset for Hypersonic Vehicles | $139,990 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T026 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Navy seeks a novel and validated toolset for modeling finite-rate ablation effects on thermal protection systems (TPSs) for hypersonic vehicles. Current, state-of-the-practice ablation tools rely mostly on equilibrium B’ tables to model TPS ablation which are known, in general, to overpredict recession in comparison to ground test and flight data. Despite known deficiencies, the simplicity and heritage of the B’ table approach continues to be widely used in current hypersonic TPS analysis. Work in the last decade has focused on moving away from this assumption by leveraging advanced numerical and ground testing techniques to develop more fundamental ablation models which can model the finite-rate nature of the competing surface effects which result in what is commonly referred to as ablation. The current state-of-the-art finite-rate oxidation model is developed from data using molecular beam experiments, which probe individual molecular collisions. Development of these modern finite-rate ablation models, such as the air carbon ablation (ACA) model, now necessitates rigorous validation and evaluation against realistic TPS architectures and hypersonic environments. To this end, Corvid Technologies, in partnership with the University of Kentucky (UK), proposes development and validation of an improved finite-rate ablation model for the systems and environments of interest to the Navy (such as 2D and 3D carbon carbon). Under this Phase I effort, Corvid and UK will integrate improvements to our existing implementation of the ACA model, carry out an initial evaluation effort to assess the performance of the ACA model, and develop an optimization framework to further improve the ACA model’s correlation with test data. Also, we will plan a follow-on ground test campaign during the Phase I option period. |
| FA8651-23-C-A017 | Microstructural Fragmentation Control in Penetrating Munitions | $1,249,998 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D019 | 04/06/2023 | 04/07/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The US Air Force seeks new technologies to improve the fragmentation performance of penetrating munitions, without degrading the case’s impact survivability against hard targets, to meet multi-mission requirements. This technology is particularly valuable |
| N68335-23-C-0556 | Next Generation Toolsets for Weapons Separation Evaluations to Enable Enhanced Strike Capabilities | $139,998 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-006 | 06/26/2023 | 01/02/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Corvid Technologies proposes to provide Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division’s (NAWCAD) a replacement to their NAVSEP FORTRAN toolset, which will reduce programmatic risks by reducing per-analysis manpower requirements and allow for more rapid and complex autopilot integration. The proposed approach is to leverage significant pre-existing knowledge and capabilities to develop a highly parallelized OS independent end-to-end framework leveraging Corvid’s in-house six degree of freedom (6DoF) solver VIDOF and modern coding paradigms and languages to model, process, and visualize arbitrary store separation events. The Phase I effort will consist of defining NAWCAD’s current metrics, data formats, and procedures, developing and benchmarking an efficient miss distance calculator, evaluating available visualization approaches, and synthesizing the resulting information into a Phase II prototype plan. In the Phase I Option, Corvid will develop code to support IO between the various systems, begin graphical user interface (GUI) development, and evaluate the potential to use machine learning as an interpolation scheme for the numerous datasets. Corvid will leverage experience in development of a pre-existing in-house 6DoF solver, which is routinely integrated with modern autopilot routines that is designed for probabilistic (Monte Carlo) analysis, a parallelized “lights-out factory” computational fluid dynamics (CFD) database for end-to-end generation, execution, and management in Python with a GUI, which uses a modular approach to external tools for meshing, solver integration, and data processing, as well as significant past experience relating to simulation and modeling of various payload and component deployment dynamic problems. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7534 | Surrogate Models to Accelerate High-Fidelity Physics Based Simulation | $149,998 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T003 | 11/23/2022 | 05/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | This topic focuses on developing fast-running, computationally efficient, surrogate models to be used in place of slow running, computationally expensive, high-fidelity physics-based models inside of end-to-end missile defense simulation frameworks. Recent advances in physics informed machine learning (PIML) have made possible the substantial speed improvement of physics-based models. Corvid Technologies and Auburn University propose to leverage Corvid’s existing PIML-based fast-running penetration model, along with their extensive capabilities and expertise in modeling hyper velocity impact events, in order to develop a state-of-the-art fast-running surrogate model for the generation of post-intercept debris (PID). This tool, called Advanced VIDEO, will have the capability to generate predictions of debris states (size, shape, material, velocity, temperature, etc.) with comparable fidelity to those produced using hydro-structural solvers on a time scale of seconds. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| HT9425-23-C-0007 | Digital Human Model for Use in Simulation Environments for Tactile Human/Robot Interactions | $1,099,999 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | DHA213-008 | 03/01/2023 | 07/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Corvid Technologies, LLC and Stevens Institute of Technology (Stevens) propose to utilize the results and lessons learned from the Phase I effort to develop and demonstrate a digital human body model capable of quantifying internal stresses and strains in the anatomy and joint loads due to externally applied forces from robotic manipulation. Similar to the approach in Phase I, the proposed approach will utilize the best features of: (a) low-fidelity, computationally-inexpensive multibody dynamics tools and (b) high-fidelity, computationally-expensive whole body finite element models to inform the simulation environment with anatomically relevant kinematic and force information from the different software tools. The emphasis in Phase II will be primarily on scaling the approaches investigated during Phase I to the whole body, with the specific aim of addressing the benchmark human-robot interactions such as a robot gripping, lifting, dragging, rolling, and palpating the human body. The Phase II effort will involve developing a whole human-body multibody-dynamics tool with both revolute and prismatic joints that can function interactively with Corvid’s whole-body finite element model, CAVEMAN. In addition, the relationship between the stability of a robotic grip and the prehensile loads transferred in the body down the kinematic chain will be investigated, which may help bridge the gap between the low-fidelity and high-fidelity computational domains relating the gripping configurations to both grasp stability and injury prediction. Corvid and Stevens are uniquely positioned to efficiently accomplish the objectives of this proposal due to our respective expertise in computational injury biomechanics using whole-body finite element models, and kinematic modeling, simulation, control, and analysis of fully actuated and underactuated robotic hands, respectively. |
| W51701-23-C-0190 | Counter Unmanned Aerial System - Warhead (CUAS-W) | $1,899,849 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N181-055 | 08/14/2023 | 02/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| N68335-23-C-0640 | Perceptually Lossless Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) Sensor Data Compression | $139,991 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-038 | 08/04/2023 | 02/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Data through water transfer rates are generally low due to limited bandwidth. The sonar images must be efficiently compressed to increase onboard storage and enable large amounts of data through water transfer. Mathematically, the sonar images can be viewed as a linear combination of some appropriate Green’s functions. Thus, they are highly coherent correlated and the associated matrices are rank deficient. This unique property can be exploited to achieve better sonar image compression. To this end, Corvid Technologies (Corvid) and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL) propose to develop an efficient data-driven dictionary sparse coding-based sonar image compression algorithm. Firstly, the team will employ butterfly factorization to extract the salient features at different levels from the training data, then we will use a deep dictionary learning algorithm to build a more accurate dictionary by taking the butterfly factorization results as input. Once the dictionary is learned, Corvid and LBNL will use a Bayesian compressive sensing approach to extract the sparse coefficients of each image more efficiently. For the scenarios that multiple sonar images are associated with the same scene, we will use a multi-task Bayesian compressive sensing method to obtain more noise robust results by exploiting the joint information among those images. Due to sparse coding, the extracted coefficients can serve as features for better automatic target recognition performance. |
| W51701-23-C-0095 | Advanced Application Development for Fast Neutron Radiography | $1,699,966 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A214-007 | 04/11/2023 | 04/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| HR001123C0171 | Dynamic Evaluation of Hypersonic Missile Debris Penetration | $1,799,921 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N161-019 | 09/01/2023 | 08/28/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Non-warhead debris from a typical anti-ship or air-to-air missile can comprise as much as 70% of the total striking mass, which makes it a crucial component of any lethality or survivability assessment and increasingly important as stand-off missile programs are rising in demand. Many current LVS modeling tools in use by the government do not address residual non-warhead missile debris at all, and those that do use models based on legacy weapon debris data from 1970’s and 1980’s era missiles that were built with significantly different materials and components compared to modern systems. In order to address these issues, Corvid Technologies proposes to study the penetration mechanics of residual hypersonic missile debris through multiple plate arrays to support the development of improved fast-running penetration lethality models. This proposal describes a robust experimental test campaign, augmented by innovative numerical simulation techniques, which will generate the experimental data required to validate advanced penetration mechanics methodologies currently in development by the Air Force, Navy and others. The proposed effort is divided into three separate test campaigns: Test Campaign 1 will leverage existing hardware from a previous effort to conduct a series of sub-scale debris penetration tests to reduce risk going into the full scale testing; Test Campaign 2 will evaluate the penetration of actual missile debris launched through multi-plate arrays and develop a projectile surrogation technique for conducting follow-on ballistic testing at a lower cost; Test Campaign 3 will use the debris surrogation methodology developed during Test Campaign 2 to conduct a parametric test campaign which will generate an experimental database of debris penetration results for representative missile debris versus a variety of target materials. This database will be used for calibration and validation of on-going fast-running model (FRM) development being conducted under a separate AFRL contract. |
| N68335-23-C-0076 | Development of Hypersonic Glide Body Deployable Antennas | $139,997 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N222-128 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | The limited available space on the body of a hypersonic glide vehicle as well as the extreme aerodynamic and aerothermal environment it experiences presents a significant design challenge for mounting antenna systems. The surfaces of the hypersonic vehicle are subjected to extremely high temperatures (>1000 °C) and require aerothermal protection systems on top of the lightweight, high-strength structural components necessary for survival. Additionally, at high velocities (>Mach 5), molecular dissociation and ionization of the air near the surface of the hypersonic vehicle may obscure radio frequency (RF) communications. Transmission and reception through the plasma are highly dependent on the electron density and ion species present, as well as the radio transmission frequency. Corvid Technologies, in partnership with New Mexico State University/Physical Science Laboratory (NMSU/PSL), is uniquely suited for modeling, simulating, designing, and testing deployable antennas capable of functioning during hypersonic flight. In Phase I, Corvid and NMSU/PSL will demonstrate the framework for combining computational fluid dynamics (CFD), hydrostructural, thermal, and electromagnetic (EM) simulation tools to accurately characterize the survivability and dynamic RF performance of antenna systems mounted on hypersonic glide vehicles. This approach leverages existing modeling and simulation techniques currently in use at Corvid and NMSU/PSL for the analysis of hypersonic platforms and RF telemetry systems, as well as Corvid’s in-house high performance computing capability. Three unique mechanical design concepts for the antenna system will be investigated to address the Navy’s hypersonic communication and data transmission needs: pole antenna, telescopic pole antenna, and moveable hinge antenna. In each concept, the antenna system is intended to be mounted on the aft plate of the hypersonic vehicle and consists of either multilayer planar patches or wrap-around conformal patch antennas. After antenna deployment and operation, the antenna can either retract or release and each design benefits from using a small amount of internal volume of the hypersonic vehicle for protection from the aerothermal environment when not in use. The final design concept will be downselected based on the results of the electromagnetic and survivability simulations. Corvid and PSL will assess feasibility by analyzing size, weight, and power, antenna performance (gain, bandwidth, beamwidth, etc.), design complexity and likelihood of success, ease of manufacturing, cost, manufacturing time, surface area and volume constraints, mechanical robustness, and aerodynamic performance for each design. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7134 | Kill Vehicle Warhead for Enhanced Lethality against Highly Maneuverable Threats | $1,467,982 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-016 | 02/08/2023 | 02/07/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Leveraging our extensive Air and Missile Defense high-fidelity modeling and simulation (M&S) experience, combined with proven warhead manufacturing ability, Corvid Technologies proposes to design, prototype, and demonstrate a fragmenting warhead that is optimized to kill HMTs at large miss distances that could be integrated into a notional KV. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| N68335-23-C-0337 | Predictive Tool for Aging Effects on Performance of Phenolic-Based Thermal Protection Materials | $139,986 | CORVID TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-060 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Hypersonic weapons and aerospace vehicles experience extreme thermo-mechanical loads, which has required the development of novel material solutions to better protect sensitive internal components from these. A strategy for one-time use scenarios is a class of materials that ablate or chemically react and transform into gases under extreme thermal loads. Carbon phenolic ablators are advanced composite ablators that have found growing usage, spurring an industry need for accurate and appropriate material models. Ablative phenolic carbon is vulnerable to a number of aging phenomena due to the chemically-organic nature of phenolic resin. Coupled with the wide variety of microstructures and chemistries in ablative phenolic carbon composites, the ability to predict actual material responses in real world scenarios is greatly diminished. In response to the Navy's need to predict the effects of aging on the ablative response of phenolic composites, Corvid Technologies proposes development of a material model plugin to the CHarring Ablator Response code (CHAR), the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA’s) state-of-the-art ablation code. This proposed plugin can be used to modify the underlying material property inputs for phenolic carbon composites of a given microstructure and chemistry as a function of aging mechanism and time. Corvid will develop the CHAR aging material model plugin using a multiple-length-scale modeling and simulation approach which will handshake chemistry affects from the atomistic scale with Molecular Dynamics to the microstructural evolution as a function of time at the meso-scale with Phase-Field Modeling. The results will be homogenized into long-time scale trends that will be able to forecast the material effects of aging up to 60 years. Once developed, the end product will be a fast calculation tool capable of applying effects of multiple aging mechanisms simultaneously to estimate current material properties and response. Current approaches do not account for aging when simulating ablative response, and while there are a few experimental investigations into accelerated aging effects, the effect of long-time scales (i.e. greater than 3 years) on ablative behavior is currently unknown. Corvid will leverage our extensive multi-length-scale material modeling expertise and massively-parallel high-performance computing (HPC) system to bridge both time and length scales to deliver a model that can account for the diverse array of composite microstructures and chemistries of phenolic-carbon composites, as well as the specific effects of multiple aging mechanisms on those composite microstructural features. |
| FA8649-23-P-0920 | Multifunctional Conformal Radiation Shielding: COTS Systems with Rad-Hard Resilience | $74,885 | COSMIC SHIELDING CORPORATION | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | CSC’s multifunctional radiation shielding composite tackles the barriers posed by space radiation to critical components and spacecraft in-orbit. CSC’s composite materials are capable of effectively mitigating particulate radiation such as solar particle |
| FA8649-23-P-0364 | Courtesy Cups -- Menstrual Cup Disinfectant | $74,988 | COURTESY CUPS, LLC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 12/08/2022 | 03/13/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Tablet Disinfection is accomplished by an effervescent tablet using hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), an effective disinfectant against a number of organisms that can cause vaginal infections in women. The use of H2O2 enables the menstrual cup to be disinfected effectively at lower temperatures, thereby eliminating the need for an energy source, and even using non-sterile or gray water. In order to deliver an effective dose of 0.1% H2O2 the tablet weighs 2.2 grams, measures 18 mm in diameter by 6 mm in height. Initial tests show the sodium percarbonate tablets are very stable when tested in 54°C accelerated storage stability ovens. There were no changes in the product resulting in any quality concerns. The tablets were also tested in plastic freezer bags with no other packaging protection; hardness values minorly increased, but there were no signs of swelling, no loss of H2O2 content, and no significant increase in dissolution time. The Neutralizer Despite its superior disinfecting capabilities, hydrogen peroxide can be an irritant, particularly in contact with mucosal surfaces. In the contact lens industry, they have overcome this problem by using a platinum disk that catalyzes the decomposition of a hydrogen peroxide solution to H2O over time. The catalyst accelerates the decomposition of the H2O2, while preliminary data suggests that it does not dramatically reduce the bacterial death rate (KD) in the disinfection of the menstrual cups. The platinum disk is designed for multiple uses, minimizing the need to carry extra components for proper cleansing. The Case The Courtesy Cups disinfection case is a compact menstrual cup case, measuring 60 by 75 mm and about the size of a mini can of soda. The case is lightweight, under 50 grams, it’s leakproof and sturdy. Because of Courtesy Cups' unique sanitizing tablet system, the case does not require the additional weight of heavy batteries or extra water and it doesn’t need to be plugged into an outlet – perfect for women in austere environments, but useful for women in any environment. The Courtesy Cups system uses 78% less water when compared to rinsing with drinking water and 135% less water than boiling with a camping cookpot, which is important for women in austere environments with limited access to water. The Courtesy Cups cleaning system has compartmentalized sections that allow for cleaning, drying, and storage of the menstrual cup. The case has three components: top, middle, and bottom which combine in a cylindrical form. The top segment f is where the cup is sanitized, it’s filled with a small amount of potable water and the tablet is added. The middle segment serves as a connection for the entire menstrual cup case. It also contains the tablets, keeping them dry and clean. The bottom segment functions as a dry storage compartment for the cup. |
| FA9101-23-P-B036 | A High-Performance Cryovacuum Rotary Slip Ring Union | $179,986 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0007 | 06/07/2023 | 03/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force tests and calibrates visible and infrared radiometric sensors for interceptor aircraft and space surveillance systems using test facilities that simulate the high-vacuum, cryogenic conditions of high-altitude flight and space. Simulation of vehicle roll and variations in the test object’s temperature compared to the background environment is important and requires a new rotary fluid and electrical feedthrough capability with thermal isolation. Creare proposes to develop a high-performance cryovacuum rotary slip ring union that provides continuous rotation pass-through capability for electrical power channels, low-noise signal channels, and dual cryogenic fluid channels. Our slip ring union is compatible with high-vacuum conditions and operates from ambient temperatures down to below 80 K. It also provides thermal isolation between the supply and return fluid channels and between the fluid channels and the mounting flange, so the test item can be thermally isolated from its surrounding chamber and heat exchange between the source and return cooling fluid streams can be minimized. In this Phase I project, Creare will design and develop a proof-of-concept cryovacuum slip ring union prototype and conduct testing to demonstrate the performance of key materials, design features, and components and their ability to meet the requirements for thermal isolation, signal properties, and service conditions. Creare will also develop a conceptual design for a fully functional, packaged cryovacuum slip ring union prototype to be fabricated, tested, and delivered to the Air Force in Phase II. |
| FA8649-23-P-0018 | Portable System for C-130 Propeller Blade Bore Inspection | $1,248,192 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 12/13/2022 | 09/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The measurement and quality control systems used for military aircraft must be operator independent, traceable, portable, and easy to use. The current hardware used to measure the gear motor interface geometry (hole diameter and taper) on the C-130 propeller uses a mechanical dial gauge coupled with a precision machined “plug” that is operator dependent; is limited to “go/no-go” measurements; is potentially susceptible to temperature and humidity fluctuations; is unable to sense localized imperfections in the bore wall; and lacks traceability. The current measurement approach, using the existing Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) at CMXG at Robins AFB requires that propellers must be brought to the machine, which dramatically restricts productivity. Due to the increasing volume of C-130 propellers to be fabricated and refurbished by CMXG, there is a key need to improve speed, accuracy, consistency, and traceability of bore measurements while being portable and easy to use. To address this need, Creare will develop, demonstrate, and produce production‑ready Bore Measurement Systems (BMSs). The scanner provides a more flexible workflow and a digital record of a refurbishment, repair, or new part conformance through the various processing steps to completion. |
| N68335-23-C-0666 | Efficient Algorithms for Automated Battle Damage Assessment | $139,960 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-048 | 08/09/2023 | 02/20/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Sea mines are a persistent threat to naval operations. Mines are inexpensive to fabricate and easy to deploy, making them a favorite tool of our adversaries. The Navy is actively developing new countermine technologies to defeat this threat more quickly and efficiently than ever before. However, countermining operations still require manual battle damage assessment (BDA) to verify target neutralization, slowing operational tempo. Future mine neutralization systems will likely include ultrashort baseline arrays (USBLA) of hydrophones for acoustic communication and tracking. Opportunistically, the USBLA will also capture the underwater explosion (UNDEX) waveforms from the countermine charge and any sympathetic mine detonations. These waveforms contain sufficient information for near-instantaneous and automatic BDA. Creare proposes to develop the Automated UNDEX Damage Assessment Tool (AUDAT), a suite of algorithms suitable for deployment on a low-power embedded processor that analyze UNDEX waveforms to determine the number of UNDEX events and the bearing, range, depth, and estimated yield of each event. This automated tool will supplant manual BDA, increasing mission tempo. With slight modifications, AUDAT algorithms can also be used for automated battle damage assessment following offensive mining operations. In Phase I we will collect sample UNDEX data on a simulated USBLA, develop candidate AUDAT algorithms, and demonstrate key algorithm performance on a low power embedded system. In Phase II we will refine our algorithms to deal with real-world complications and demonstrate end-to-end performance on a custom embedded prototype. |
| W5170123C0040 | Metal Matrix Composite UH-60 Armor Floors | $250,000 | CPS TECHNOLOGIES CORP. | SBIR | Phase I | A224-024 | 03/24/2023 | 09/30/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0106 | Low Acoustic Signature Electric Propulsion System for Navy Craft | $139,927 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N222-115 | 11/07/2022 | 05/09/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Navy utilizes small, crewed watercraft, e.g., the Special Operations Craft – Ravine, for a range of missions in the littoral zone. These watercrafts, while designed for high-speed operation, also require low-speed stealth operation to successfully complete all types of mission objectives. However, the existing internal combustions engines and propulsion systems currently used on these vessels emit too much noise to meet the Navy’s mission requirements. A quiet auxiliary propulsion system is needed for quiet and low-speed operation. To meet this need, Creare proposes a low acoustic signature electric propulsion system comprising a compactly integrated motor and propeller pod designed to deploy from and stow on the transom of the watercraft with simple rotating mechanisms and custom integration of readily available power and control electronics with low acoustic emissions. In Phase I, the Creare team will refine the overall design (including performance, acoustics, and mechanical integration) by conducting analyses, testing, and consulting with the Navy and our team of experts. In Phase II, we will refine the design and conduct full-scale prototype testing. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7122 | High-Temperature, Pressure-Activated, Dynamic Seals for Solid Rocket Motors | $1,477,503 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-011 | 02/21/2023 | 02/20/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Future solid propulsion systems will require higher propellant burn temperatures to achieve improvements in impulse and thrust. We propose to continue development of our novel seal technology that will enable significant increases in temperature at the seal location. In Phase I, we proved the feasibility of our approach through analysis, prototyping, and proof‑of‑concept demonstrations. In Phase II, we will design and assemble prototype seal assemblies and measure their performance during hot fire test conditions that simulate operation in a solid rocket motor environment. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| HDTRA123P0010 | Conductive Lightweight Concrete for EMP Protection | $165,943 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | DTRA222-003 | 05/11/2023 | 12/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Defense Threat Reduction Agency | Concrete has been used in construction for centuries and is a mature technology for building large structures, but the industry is conservative in embracing new technologies. Lightweight concrete structures are not currently employed for electromagnetic interference (EMI) / electromagnetic pulse (EMP) and blast protection. Creare proposes to fabricate high strength lightweight concrete by using a combination of metal fibers and carbon nanomaterials for improved mechanical strength, blast resistance and EMI/EMP shielding. Our nanomaterial manufacturing process is a highly scalable, available technology that can be produced at low cost. We have key collaborators in the concrete and nanomaterial’s industry. In Phase I, we will produce and test aerated conductive concrete samples and test them for conductivity and strength. In Phase II of the project, we will scale up to and make concrete systems including multiple blocks and passthroughs. We plan on completing EMI testing of these larger blocks and systems during Phase II. |
| W5170123C0116 | Diver Performance Monitoring System | $149,989 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-004 | 03/30/2023 | 07/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0462 | Topology Optimization for 3-D Printed Compact Condensers | $139,880 | CREARE LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T024 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Additive Manufacturing (AM) processes, such as laser powder bed fusion, have enabled the construction of heat exchangers with custom form factors and unique internal geometries. Topology optimization (TO) takes advantage of these unique geometries to create flow structures that have increased heat transfer effectiveness and reduced pressure drop compared to standard heat exchanger channels. The Navy is interested in evaluating the promise of AM in thermal management system designs (specifically condenser designs) to meet the demands of next-generation shipboard technologies. However, fully realizing the benefits of AM requires the use of optimization algorithms, and such design tools are not readily available. Creare and our collaborators will create a TO design toolkit that will allow for the design of compact condensers based on state-of-the-art AM capabilities and Navy performance objectives. In the Phase I Base phase, we will adapt our team’s existing TO codebase into an overall design toolkit for condensers. We will then utilize the toolkit to develop a preliminary condenser design for the Navy and compare performance to Creare’s state-of-the-art micro channel normal flow condenser. In Phase II, we will develop a detailed design and fabricate and test a full-scale 50 kW condenser. |
| HDTRA223C0004 | Ruggedized Radionuclide Particle Collection System | $1,099,570 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase II | DTRA182-006 | 08/04/2023 | 08/03/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Threat Reduction Agency | The detection of radionuclide aerosols is a critical indicator of a nuclear detonation. Current detection systems used in the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty’s (CTBT) global monitoring network stations spend 24 hours collecting and concentrating particulates from the air to gather enough sample material for adequate detection sensitivity. This approach is inherently a batch process that yields a data point only once per day. Future detection systems will require the ability to reduce the monitoring time and increase the sensitivity of airborne radionuclide particles to enable faster response. To achieve this capability, an efficient aerosol concentrator that can sample much larger air volumes and package the sample more efficiently than existing systems is required. In the currently proposed effort, we will ruggedize our highly efficient particle collection system, include automized operation, and conduct outdoor testing. We will work with our sister company that specializes in small-scale, high-value manufacturing to begin to transition this technology from research and development to pilot production. |
| N68335-23-C-0039 | Physiological Monitoring to Accelerate Safe Decompression | $999,918 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N21A-T013 | 01/26/2023 | 01/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Despite over 100 years of research, decompression sickness (DCS) remains the mission-limiting factor in the design and execution of many military and commercial dives. Decompression time is currently dictated by dive tables, developed around acceptable risk using population-wide statistics. In consequence, dive tables are very conservative: a table designed for a 2% DCS incidence risk is longer than necessary 98% of the time. Decompression schedules tailored to the individual’s real-time physiological state—?personalized decompression profiles—have the potential to vastly accelerate safe decompression. We propose to develop the wireless diver physiology monitor (WDPM). The WDPM monitors key physiological parameters that correlate with DCS risk. Physiological feedback will allow for individualized decompression: minimizing decompression obligation while monitoring and maintaining the safety of the diver. A key innovation with the WDPM is the elimination of wires—all sensors, circuits, and batteries are encapsulated in a waterproof housing. Communication between sensor nodes takes place via a novel wireless communication system. |
| HT9425-23-C-0060 | Automated Vestibular Rehabilitation Management System | $1,299,960 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase II | DHA182-005 | 08/22/2023 | 12/24/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Dizziness is a common complaint, with about one third of the population experiencing dizziness at some point in their life. Vestibular rehabilitation targets vestibular adaptation and substitution for patients with vertigo and dizziness of vestibular origin. Unfortunately, vestibular rehabilitation requires specialized physical therapists who may not be accessible to service members or the general population when living in remote areas, or who may be in high demand resulting in delayed care. Creare and its clinical collaborators at the University of Miami propose to design, implement, and test an automated system that allows clinicians without specialized training to administer vestibular rehabilitation. Creare’s Automated Vestibular Rehabilitation System uses machine vision and automated algorithms to compute performance metrics during exercises, and to progress the patient through an exercise program. The system uses advanced image recognition and machine learning algorithms to track the patient’s head, eye, and body motion, provide real-time feedback to the patient, and guide them through each exercise. |
| HT9425-23-C-0053 | Low Cost Blast Test Surrogate | $1,099,955 | CREARE LLC | STTR | Phase II | DHA22B-001 | 08/17/2023 | 12/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Blast-induced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a major threat to the health of military personnel serving in modern theaters. TBI incidence rates in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom approached 3% of all deployed personnel. Indeed, TBI has become known as the “signature” injury of these conflicts. Blast overpressure can also damage the lungs, eardrums, and eyes. Development and evaluation of personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect the warfighter from blast injury requires human surrogates. Today’s surrogates are either anatomically inaccurate (and fit PPE poorly) or are prohibitively expensive. Our warfighters deserve a better solution. In this STTR program, Creare, working with our partners at the Wake Forest University (WFU) Center for Injury Biomechanics, is developing the Modular Instrumented Torso and Head Surrogate (MITHS). The MITHS will provide a low-cost (<$5,000), biofidelic, and modular solution for evaluating blast injury risk and personal protective equipment performance. The MITHS features biofidelic and modular head and torso surrogates with biofidelic and replaceable brain, lung, eye, and ear phantoms, low-cost blast-relevant instrumentation, injury risk prediction software, and robust data acquisition. To date in Phase I, we developed a proof-of-concept MITHS complete with biofidelic lung, brain, eye, ear, and skeletal phantoms; demonstrated performance against a shock tube insult; developed a high-level design and manufacturing procedure for a fully modular MITHS; identified and characterized low-cost (<$100) blast-relevant pressure and acceleration sensors; established a baseline cost (<$3,000) and price (<$5,000) for the Phase III MITHS; and identified a commercialization partner eager to manufacture and market the MITHS as a product. Before the conclusion of Phase I, we will have demonstrated the proof-of-concept MITHS against blast insults exceeding 25 psi peak overpressure. In Phase II, we will conduct a final instrumentation down select; validate our approaches for replacing the brain, eye, ear, and lung phantoms; develop a detailed design with modular and replaceable components, using validated biofidelic geometry as a starting point; fabricate prototype surrogates using cost-conscious manufacturing approaches; demonstrate surrogate performance against repeated blast insults up to 75 psi without PPE and 135 psi with PPE; develop software to estimate injury risk using MITHS data; and continue to refine and execute our transition and commercialization plan. |
| N68335-23-C-0323 | A High Heat Capacity Backup System for Sustaining Cryogenic Temperatures | $139,976 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-068 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | U.S. Navy ships use systems employing superconductors for power distribution and other applications, and cryocoolers maintain the cryogenic temperatures required for superconductor operation. When cryocooler electrical power is lost or interrupted for more than a brief period (such as during power source transfer, maintenance, or unplanned events), these systems begin warming to temperatures at which the superconductors no longer function. When power is restored, the systems must be re-cooled to restore functionality, resulting in additional time without system capability. Creare proposes to develop a heat-absorbing technology for sustaining cryogenic temperatures for superconductors for up to several hours in the absence of cryocooler power. Our technology offers high efficiency and minimum weight and volume. The proposed Phase I project will develop approaches for integrating the heat-absorbing material into cryogenic systems and develop a conceptual design for a cryogenic heat absorption system for a Navy application. Analysis will show the system feasibility and performance outlook. The Phase I Option project will advance the system design in preparation for prototype development, testing, and delivery in Phase II. |
| N68335-23-C-0751 | Tactical Cryogenic Cryocooler for HTS Applications | $597,766 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N211-041 | 09/21/2023 | 09/25/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Tactical Navy HTS magnet applications require efficient and compact cryocoolers to maintain cryogenic temperatures for the magnet while also accommodating the physical and environmental constraints within the HTS magnet system. Currently available commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) cryocoolers fall short on achieving the cryogenic cooling requirements that are needed for future tactical HTS magnets. Because their individual cryocooler components are not physically separable, COTS cryocoolers are also very difficult to integrate into compact tactical HTS magnets. Our proposed cryocooler approach combines innovative cryocooler integration approaches with our reverse Brayton cryocooler to meet a broad range of refrigeration, integration, and environmental requirements that are not achievable by other types of cryocoolers. In Phase I, we demonstrated feasibility of our approach to meet the Navy’s cooling and integration requirements. In Phase II, we plan to develop a prototype cryocooler leading to a thermal demonstration of the system. |
| FA8750-23-C-1012 | Generating 3-D Models of Unknown Space Systems | $149,992 | CREARE LLC | STTR | Phase I | SF22D-T002 | 03/28/2023 | 12/28/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As the number and capabilities of known and unknown space systems are expanding, the United States Space Force (USSF) needs to enhance and modernize space domain awareness (SDA). However, there are significant challenges to identify, track, and characteri |
| HDTRA1-23-P-0013 | 3D Reconstruction, Visualization, and Modeling of Buildings from Multiple Image Sources | $182,834 | CREARE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | CBD222-005 | 05/22/2023 | 12/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | Extended reality (XR) has emerged as a crucial tool supporting JSTO-CBD’s mission to defend warfighters against chemical/biological threats. Extended reality, including augmented, mixed, and virtual reality, coupled with accurate transport and dispersion (T&D) modeling of chemical/biological hazards, can provide critical situational awareness, enhanced live training, and immersive virtual training. To generate XR environments, JSTO CBD requires 3-D models of real-world terrain, buildings, devices, and weapons integrated from multiple data modalities acquired from a variety of sensor platforms. To meet this need, we will develop a tool that can rapidly, automatically, and accurately generate 3-D models fused from these multimodal sources and export the data in the necessary formats for XR applications and T&D modeling. Our tool fuses 3-D geometries from multimodal sources with robust surface generation at varying degrees of fidelity. It labels building features, such as doors and windows, that are important for accurate T&D modeling. It also infers interior building structure from exterior data sources. |
| N68335-23-C-0301 | Lightweight Turbogenerator for VTOL UAV | $138,102 | CREARE LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T016 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Navy is developing a new type of UAS for small-deck ships that can operate from these platforms but that provide the endurance and range of a conventional fixed-wing UAS. These UASs are tail-sitting and take off and land vertically (VTOL) while flying horizontally. The Navy is seeking propulsion systems for these UASs that have high specific power, but also have reasonable efficiency (SFC). The propulsion system must also be orientation insensitive and compatible with marine environments. Class 3 UAS propulsion is typically supplied by internal combustion engines, which have good SFC, but are heavy and have poor specific power. Gas turbine engines have excellent specific power, but typically have poor SFC at this scale. This topic is seeking a turbogenerator for a Class 3 VTOL UAS that has both high specific power and low SFC. Creare and UAV Turbines have been developing a 50 hp recuperated turbogenerator for a ground power application. This engine has efficient turbomachines, generator, and recuperator, and easily meets the SFC requirements for this topic. The main challenge is in the specific power requirement. We plan to adapt our existing ground-power turbogenerator to meet the Navy’s requirements for VTOL UAS propulsion. We plan to utilize many of the existing components used in the existing turbogenerator, but we will implement air bearings for mass reduction to meet the specific power requirements. Air bearing design and analysis will be supported by our academic collaborators at Texas A&M. In Phase I, we will focus on bearing design and rotodynamic analysis, and development of a bearing test rig for air bearing testing. We will also predict the performance of the final turbogenerator using analysis. In Phase II, we will develop and test a fully integrated turbogenerator. The turbogenerator developed under this program will be commercialized as a UAV Turbines product for direct sale to Navy programs or other commercial applications. |
| FA8649-23-P-0844 | USAF Accuracy Under Fire Injury Simulator Technology | $74,580 | CREATIVE LAW ENFORCEMENT RESOURCES INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | AUFIRE brings the next generation in haptic feedback and disabling wound simulation designed for military training. AUFIRE will expose Security Forces personnel, SERE (survival, evasion, resistance, and escape) trainees and tactical operators to a new ex |
| N68335-23-C-0043 | Next Generation Infantry Heads-up Displays for Close-Air Support | $239,549 | [htpps://www.creativemicro.com CREATIVE MICROSYSTEMS CORPORATION] | SBIR | Phase I | N222-119 | 11/07/2022 | 02/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Heads Up Displays (HUD) are still lacking the operation capabilities to meet the needs of training and tactical operation. The available displays lack daytime brightness, are limited by a small field of view, not ruggedized, and do not meet the SWaP needs of an untethered head or helmet worn display for the Army. Creative Microsystems Corp (CMC) will identify a development path and incorporate the latest in micro display technology in conjunction with decades of experience developing systems to enhance situational awareness and producing planar and flat optical elements. The goal is to develop a system that will allow the war fighter to be fully immersed in realistic training scenarios and also transition to tactical use cases delivering real time communication and data flow to enhance situational awareness. Combining the latest in micro display technology with flat optical elements incorporated into a waveguide to maximize light efficiency and minimize size weight and power (SWaP) of a HUD that can be used to address the current AR system gaps and achieved desired capabilities in all environments. In the commercial arena, mobile display technologies are expanding rapidly. This technology is driven by phone, tablet, and VR development with a desire for a similar bright, high resolution, and long battery life- but with much less at stake. The goal of this HUD development is to incorporate the latest micro display technology, lightweight and efficient optical solutions, and a flexible processing platform to bring innovation to war fighters, dismounted and mounted, and to deliver the tools to support decision making and provide information relevant to training or operational situations. CMC intends to develop a compact, low power, high performance micro display HUD to provide significant benefit in a wide range of situations and implementations. |
| N68335-23-C-0465 | Additively Manufactured Compact Condenser Heat Exchanger from Generative Design | $140,000 | CREATIVE THERMAL SOLUTIONS, INC. | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T024 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | We propose to develop an ultra-compact refrigerant-to-water condenser heat exchanger (HX) using a generative design (GDA) and additive manufacturing (AM). The condenser HX will use fresh water at 25 °C to remove 50 kW of heat from condensing R134a. We will demonstrate the use of generative design to identify high performing three-dimensional (3D) designs with optimal surface shapes. The designs will exploit complex 3D geometries that are possible using AM, providing high heat transfer performance not possible with conventional designs. A key innovation will be for the 3D designs to be tailored for each region of the HX device, enabling true 3D optimization. The HX will be produced in a commercially available AM metal that could potentially be scaled for end-use applications. The proposed Phase 1A project (6 months, $140K) will develop a GDA to design the 50 kW heat exchanger and validate the design using finite element simulations, fabricate and test a 5 kW component to demonstrate feasibility, and perform a preliminary manufacturing and cost analysis. An optional Phase 1B project (6 months, $100K) will further refine the design with innovative concepts for design improvements, consider automated manufacturability analysis as part of the generative design, and perform further testing and analysis. The proposed project is a collaborative effort between Creative Thermal Solutions Inc., a leading heat exchanger technology company, and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, one of the university leaders on AM HX development. The proposed project leverages previous work from our team on GDA for AM, condensation heat transfer, and the engineering design of condenser HXs. The team has previously shown that GDA coupled with AM can provide order-of-magnitude improvements in heat exchanger performance while also providing a significant reduction in pressure drop. Building on this previous work, we propose several key innovations for the development of the 50 kW AM HX. First, we will use generative design to find surface shapes that are optimized for the heat transfer and fluid flow conditions within the different regions of the HX device. Second, we will allow for changing cross-sectional area of the flow regions and changing surface shapes in the flow direction, to exploit 3D optimization and focus on the refrigerant side where the fluid density and heat transfer change dramatically along the flow. Third, we will use GDA to search the design space for the best combinations of HX length, width, mass flow rates. This global optimization method will allow designers to select different optimization functions, for example to create the lowest pressure drop for a given mass flow rate, or to create the highest power density for a given pressure drop. |
| HT9425-23-C-0011 | Rx-Shooter Wearable Wound Infection Treatment Device | $1,100,000 | CRITICAL INNOVATIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase II | DHA213-009 | 02/24/2023 | 03/07/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | The Defense Health Agency seeks to develop a novel wearable wound infection treatment delivery device capable of delivering treatment for the prevention of infection in a prolonged care setting. Critical Innovations, NDA Partners, IOTAI, and consultants Loren Miller, MD, MPH, Gary Fong, PharmD, BCPS, BCIDP, Captain David Tanen, MD, FAAEM, FACMT (USN, Ret.), and former Commander Denise Whitfield, MD, FACET (USN), have formed a team of experts to address this important need. During Phase II, our objectives will be to further advance the innovative Rx-Shooter product. This will include: 1) Production of a refined prototype using an agile engineering approach; 2) Development of a manufacture-ready device; 3) Performance of additional studies to demonstrate product stability and efficacy; 4) Performance of a pilot Rx-Shooter study in a live-animal model; and 5) Maintenance of all regulatory compliance requirements while preparing for upcoming regulatory and transition hurdles. |
| FA8649-23-P-0557 | Fully-Qualified Manufacturing for the automated, on-demand, point-of-use production and qualification of devices and device components | $1,700,000 | CRITICAL INNOVATIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 03/14/2023 | 09/13/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Space Force end users and customers require an improved solution for producing qualified devices and device components for use in on-orbit servicing and related space logistics support. Critical Innovations, in conjunction with Col Ryan M. Colburn (USSF, |
| W5170123C0112 | OxyBeacon Diver Health Monitoring System | $150,000 | CRITICAL INNOVATIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-004 | 03/30/2023 | 07/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W911SR-23-C-0018 | Succor Combat Foam for Treatment of Dermal Injuries Caused by Sulfur Mustard | $275,581 | CRITICAL INNOVATIONS LLC | SBIR | Phase II | CBD212-005 | 06/23/2023 | 07/02/2025 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | The Joint Project Manager for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Medical (JPM CBRN Medical) seeks to develop dermal dressing technologies that provide multiple advantages over current wound dressings for treating dermal injuries caused by sulfur mustard. Critical Innovations, Battelle's Biomedical Research Center, the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC), and NDA Partners, with consultants Captain David Tanen, MD, FAAEM, FACMT (USN, Ret.) and Dr. Christopher Burns, MD, FACS, have formed a team of medical device experts to address this important medical need. During this Phase II project, our objectives will be to further advance the innovative Succor product. This will include: 1) On-boarding program-specific requirements, goals, and schedule; 2) Producing a pilot run of cGMP production-equivalent devices for use in program testing; 3) Demonstrating product stability, ruggedness, and readiness for the combat environment; 4) Performing a GLP live-animal study of Succor for Sulfur Mustard; and, 5) Maintaining all program-specific regulatory compliance requirements while preparing for upcoming regulatory and transition hurdles. |
| FA8649-23-P-0674 | Mixed Reality for Weapons Instruction for Combat-Proficiency and Knowledge (MR WICK) | $74,859 | CROW KING STUDIOS, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/27/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Mixed Reality for Weapons Instruction and Combat-Proficiency Knowledge (MR WICK) is a training system based on King Crow Studios’ Structured Training & Evolved Process (STEP) system that provides DAF personnel with Mixed Reality overlays to conduct weapon |
| N68335-23-C-0678 | AI-enabled Real-time Aerial Target Detection and Data Transport | $139,616 | CROWDAI, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-049 | 08/22/2023 | 02/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | CrowdAI specializes in AI/ML for automated target recognition (ATR) on full motion video (FMV). With years of DOD past performance in this mission space (DON, JAIC, MAVEN, USAF), CrowdAI will develop an end-to-end computer vision (CV) system for DON aerial platforms. It will ingest and process video, identify targets, and serve video snippets to onboard sensor operators with automated alerts to their multi-function displays. CrowdAI was the first to develop segmentation models on FMV, and today’s advanced ATR models can detect and identify surface contacts in video. Snippets will be compressed automatically, reducing onboard storage and facilitating immediate backhaul via TCDL. The final system will run in the background and support multiple DON missions. CrowdAI intends to work with Pixspan, the unparalleled expert in lossless compression, to develop the full solution. We will design a representative system that includes an ATR model, a snippet export tool, and the functionality to receive, compress, forward media using the fastest possible upload. For fine-tuning, the system will also include a feedback mechanism to augment training data in CrowdAI’s no-code CV software. We will add demonstrable improvements to real-time CV analysis and the onboard curation, efficient download, and rapid backhaul of high-resolution data. Our software supports intuitive review and retraining of CV at the tactical edge, providing an end-to-end system that not only continuously improves, but is serviceable by DON personnel without any training in data science or AI/ML. Developed from TRL-9 commercial technologies, DON will be able operate this system with its existing workforce without additional personnel. The system will act as a force multiplier, relieving analytic burden on operators to pursue more advanced tasks. In the face of a constrained compute environment, the project will investigate the feasibility of dynamic reallocation of GPU/CPU resources to prioritize specific processes. That is, ATR for threat detection may require real-time (sub-second) processing, while search and rescue can accept processing every second. The ability to adjust compute allocation will ensure that more creew needs are met. We will interview stakeholders to identify other features beneficial to their missions for development. As experts in our respective fields, we have the technologies and workforce to rapidly develop and implement this solution while exceeding expectations. CrowdAI is actively providing trusted AI/ML for FMV to both the DON and U.S. Air Force. While this mission set and the unique compute environment are novel, both aspects of this project are squarely within our respective areas of expertise. Lastly, for an interim project to bridge Phase I and Phase 2, CrowdAI suggests the curation of video data from the DON operations platform and to begin labeling data. This process can add significant lead time to a project. Generally, it is low cost, but high impact. |
| FA2384-23-C-B008 | Crowdbotics Data-Driven Readiness Application | $1,249,320 | [ CROWDBOTICS CORP] | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D003 | 09/25/2023 | 09/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Crowdbotics will further develop the DDR automated scoring mechanism that improves pilot proficiency and reduces post-flight reviews by at least 25 percent while offering strengths and weaknesses to reduce pilot deficiencies by at least 10 percent, and mo |
| SP4701-23-P-0071 | Production of Pure Magnesium with Green technology from ore Materials -Dolomite and Magnesite | $100,000 | CROWN MAGNESIUM INC | SBIR | Phase I | DLA232-003 | 09/14/2023 | 12/14/2023 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Magnesium metal, sometimes referred to as the “Green Metal” is important for defense and industrial use, as it is the lightest of all the structural and engineering metals. Magnesium also has superior mechanical properties such as high dampening capacity, heat dissipation, and shock absorbing capacity. Magnesium is 100% recyclable. Due to these factors, magnesium metal is in high demand in the automotive, construction, aerospace/defense, energy storage, and electronics sectors. It is even in demand in the aluminum industry, where it serves as an alloying element. Crown Magnesium will document a full process flow, including reporting on energy usage and waste generation. A lab-scale process will be used to confirm the estimates and provide preliminary cost and pricing data to DLA. Crown Magnesium will work with our partners, including Purdue University, to complete a preliminary economic review, evaluating the cost versus the currently available products. Additionally, the review will determine the cost of production and sourcing in North America versus foreign alternatives. Crown Magnesium’s current TRL for magnesium metal is TRL 4. By the conclusion of Phase I, Crown Magnesium expects to be at TRL 6. |
| SP4701-23-P-0044 | Low cost rapid setting cement for airport runway repairs in strategically important airfields | $99,396 | CTS CEMENT MANUFACTURING CORP | SBIR | Phase I | DLA231-004 | 08/08/2023 | 08/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | The objective of this Phase I project is to develop low cost, rapid-setting-all-weather concrete materials that can be applied to craters, making damaged runways operational in less than 24 hours from the start of repair, requiring minimal logistical support, power, and requirements under extreme conditions. The materials will have the flexibility to repair everything from potholes to full-size craters or pavement for aprons or taxiways. The level of manpower skills required to make repairs will be minimized. The materials will be able to sustain heavy aircraft traffic in elevated temperatures, heavy rains, and other extreme weather conditions. A white paper and literature survey will be carried out to screen binder systems including alternative cements such as calcium sulfoaluminate, calcium aluminate, alkali-activated, magnesium phosphate binders, and the use of heat-resistant aggregate. Blending and ad hoc formulations of of these binders will be developed for strength gain and heat exposure compatible with the operation of F-35 and cargo aircraft in remote, hostile locations. Product delivery and production scaling-up production including supplying the materials with and without aggregate, will be studied. |
| FA2394-23-C-B051 | VECSEL Based NV Diamond Magnetometry for Brain Machine Interfacing | $1,160,678 | [ CThru Lasers Inc.] | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D028 | 09/07/2023 | 02/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Recent interest in high sensitivity magnetic sensing has spurred the development of several technologies, but none are ideal for Magnetoencephalography (MEG) imaging systems. The development of engineered diamonds with defects such as NV centers has been |
| FA9453-23-P-A001 | Launch Hardened Universal Payload Interface for Modular Components and Architectures | $149,956 | CU AEROSPACE L.L.C. | SBIR | Phase I | SF222-0011 | 12/08/2022 | 09/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | There is growing interest in the space industry for the design and application of space architectures that can satisfy multiple mission profiles. Contemporary satellite systems exhibit substantial inefficiencies in the long term, owing chiefly to the difficulty of repairing/modifying the architectures once on orbit. A more modularized design enables the architecture to reuse core subsystems for a variety of payloads, reconfigure the system’s layout at will, and replace faulty or outdated equipment. Several groups have developed modular power/data interfaces, but none to date are able to carry significant payloads attached through them through typical launch loads. CU Aerospace (CUA) teamed with Altius and Starbright propose the development of a Launch Hardened Universal Payload Interface (LH-UPI) for future flight demonstration. This modular power-data interface is based upon CUA’s Guideless Resilient Androgynous Serial Port (GRASP) interface which allows for androgynous “hard dock” launch hardened connection of different modules in multiple orientations, in combination with Altius’ MagTag interface also provides multifunctionality and a “soft dock” connection through their Electro-Permanent Magnet (EPM) technology. The hybrid of the two technologies marries the advantages of both “hard” and “soft” dock capability into a single package with power/data interfaces and potentially fluid transfer capability. Key benefits of this approach include: (i) launch lock capable to support ESPA-class payloads through launch loads while still being modularly robotically swappable on-orbit; (ii) Magnetic soft docking EPMs help reduce the risk of bounce-off while GRASP’s mechanical system secures a hard-lock and pulls together power/fluid connectors; (iii) No power hold EPMs and the GRASP system are designed to not require power to maintain hold; (iv) Passive + androgenous active architecture enables modular components with an active side that can androgynously connect to either a passive or another active interface; and (v) Electronics/motors can be located in a separate installation tool to lower the interface overhead cost and mass per attached module. Prior government-funded efforts allowed CUA and Altius to advance their patented GRASP and MagTag technologies to TRL 5. The goal of this proposed effort is to (i) reduce risk for these subsystems, (ii) choose a preliminary fluid transfer coupler design using COTS terrestrial blind-mate fluid quick-disconnects that fits within the LH-UPI architecture, and (iii) develop a preliminary LH-UPI hardware design for Phase II qualification testing. In Phase II, the team would focus on developing the launch hardened power/data interface of a flight-like LH-UPI to fully characterize its performance and perform a robotic technology demonstration experiment. Flight development and qualification of space-compatible fluid-ports and an in-space flight verification demonstration would be proposed for Phase III. |
| FA8649-23-P-0935 | AI/ML Leveraged Automated Weather Monitoring in Support of 90th Missile Security Forces Squadron Operations | $74,968 | CURLEY ENTERPRISES LLC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Curley Enterprises’ FrostyFlake solution is an AI-powered, geographically dispersed weather monitoring algorithm that utilizes available camera networks and publicly available data streams from weather monitoring stations, satellites, radar, and forecas |
| W51701-23-C-0142 | A Feasibility Study of Utilizing Cyber Knowledge Graph and Machine Learning for Automated Network Defense | $133,230 | CYBERMONIC LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-007 | 07/17/2023 | 11/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N64267-23-C-0045 | Autonomous Retrieval and Delivery | $1,499,502 | CYBERNET SYSTEMS CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | N201-X02 | 08/18/2023 | 08/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Commercial industry has begun to integrate flexible robotic material handling solutions to improve the efficiency and reliability of operations. This has been particularly true for manufacturing facilities and warehouses, which have begun to integrate a range of autonomous vehicles for retrieving and moving supplies as well as robotic manipulators for retrieving components. However, military sustainment depots have not yet integrated these emerging technologies, which would enable support personnel to spend more time sustaining vehicle platforms and weapon systems and less time simply retrieving parts and supplies needed for the process. During previous efforts, Cybernet demonstrated that our AMHT autonomous vehicle applique kit is capable of automating the key functions of material movement vehicles (forklifts, tugs, etc.) to create an autonomous retrieval and delivery capability. For the current effort, we propose to build on the previous successful technology demonstrations to prepare the technology for successful transition to Navy use. This will include integrating the software with both existing and emerging Navy material management software solutions, improving the usability of deployment, command and control, and monitoring tools, enhancing the overall AMHT capabilities related to Navy mission scenarios, and evaluating requirements for achieving an Authority to Operate or Authority to Test. As part of the Autonomous Retrieval and Delivery project we will outfit an additional autonomous forklift and an additional autonomous tow tractor to use for testing performance and evaluating capabilities at a second Navy facility. |
| W51701-23-C-0182 | Army Tech Marketplace | $199,895 | CYBERNET SYSTEMS CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | A234-008 | 08/02/2023 | 12/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W51701-23-C-0140 | Vehicle Occupant Verification using Multispectral AI Cameras | $1,699,003 | CYBERNET SYSTEMS CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | A214-018 | 05/25/2023 | 12/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W51701-23-C-0071 | Aware In-Ear Hearable for Real-Time Physiological Monitoring | $148,554 | CUSTOM BIOMETRIC WEARABLES INC | SBIR | Phase I | A224-025 | 04/04/2023 | 07/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| HQ0860-23-C-7519 | Microwave Interferometric Measurements of Electron Density in Lasing Alkali-Rare Gas Mixtures | $150,000 | CYGNUS PHOTONICS INC | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T008 | 12/09/2022 | 06/08/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | The proposed program will design a microwave interferometer for the purpose of measuring the electron density and other fundamental parameters of Diode-Pumped Alkali Laser (DPAL) gain media. Although several models of the collisional chemistry of DPALs exist, benchmarking such models with experimental measurements has been hampered by the absence of experimental measurements of the electron density, in particular. The measurement of the electron density and other parameters such as ion recombination lifetimes is also essential for optimizing laser performance. Consequently, a microwave interferometer (and associated optics and electronics) capable of measuring the electron density and other, fundamental collisional constants in DPAL laser media over a wide parameter space will be designed in the proposed program. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| FA8649-23-P-1112 | Enhancing Space Domain Awareness with Open Source Intelligence: Applications for the US Space Force Space Systems Command | $1,245,483 | CYMANTIX, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/18/2023 | 01/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Cymantix proposes a solution to enhance the Space Domain Awareness (SDA) capabilities of the United States Space Force Space Systems Command by utilizing Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) data for improving situational awareness, decision-making, and effec |
| FA8649-23-P-0071 | Threat Intelligence Platform for Cyber Planners and Cyber Analysts | $74,214 | CYPHER, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In 2021, ransomware attacks increased by 1,885% against governments worldwide. State sponsored cyber criminals are actively and perpetually scanning and probing to discover vulnerabilities and to gain access to networks in order to cripple critical infrastructure points, risking our national security and that of our allies. Russia and China continually execute sophisticated surveillance and sabotage of critical infrastructure, ransom data, and perpetuate disinformation schemes. Iranian cyber criminals were linked to a cyber-sabotage of Israeli water supplies. Continuing cyber-attacks by the governments of China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, and others are notoriously difficult to trace to a sponsoring government, partly because no digital trail may link the perpetrators to their sponsors. Days and weeks are spent determining if any of the new threat information learned has already compromised the customers’ network. COSMO is innovative as it not only consolidates all threat intelligence platforms while placing historical data into a central repository, but it also uses predictive analysis to determine if there are potential attacks against a network and provides the cyber professional with daily reports of potential threat campaigns to take action on. COSMO supports the warfighter by better preparing the cyber professional to keep systems safe, secure, and running without downtime due to cyber-attacks. The impact of adapting Cypher’s COSMO for DAF and DoD use will be increased readiness at reduced cost. |
| W51701-23-C-0255 | Aware In-Ear Hearable for Real-Time Physiological Monitoring | $1,898,351 | CUSTOM BIOMETRIC WEARABLES INC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-025 | 08/11/2023 | 02/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0271 | NOMAD: A Cyber Operations Fly-away Kit | $46,556 | CYBERWINTER STUDIOS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The complex nature of cyber incidents, combined with the sophistication of threat actors makes it nearly impossible for security teams to identify and fully understand all the details of a compromise before, during, or even after a breach. This is because security teams struggle to find and react to even a single incident amongst a sea of data across an entire infrastructure and an attackers seemingly un-related malicious activity goes unnoticed until they are embedded deep within a companies infrastructure. For teams in the field, such as Incident Response, the likelihood that they can quickly spot a threat actor on a network with the tools provided is slim to none; It’s like trying to find a grain of sand on the beach. The heart of the problem is that field deployed cyber teams are given 2 choices: bring monumental amounts of hardware with them to deploy an enterprise grade solution, or pack light but lose capabilities. And the current AF platform for deployable cyber teams relies heavily on open source software, broad and signature-based alerting, and tools that don’t integrate well. So CyberWinter Studios had an idea...the Nomad. A lightweight, portable, and immensely powerful cyber operations platform that can offer all the capabilities of an enterprise solution, but deployed on mini servers and laptops. We offer the defender a chance for complete visibility of malicious activity, regardless of the network and conditions. Our custom offering of the NetWitness suite (aka Nomad) is based on the principle that deployed cyber operators need as much (if not more power) than a SOC or INFOSEC analyst. Our platform will allow us to deploy NOMAD on high capacity, portable servers, all of which will meets AF requirements. Additionally the system will provide easy memory expansion to support operations (ie, evidence collection) as mission requires; this is ideal for immediate and ad-hoc investigation requirements. It allows for complete visibility through the collection of data across physical, virtual, and cloud platforms and across packets, logs, endpoint, and netflow data as well as threat intel from multiple intelligence sources. The system lets analysts detect and monitor emerging, targeted and unknown threats as they traverse the network as well as allowing users to reconstruct entire network sessions for forensic investigations. NOMAD also utilizes machine learning, behavioral analysis, and data science techniques. This allows responders to quickly understand the true nature and scope of the attack in time to identify and eradicate it. And with flexible integration options, our fly-away kit works easily with other security tools that are already in place in a network to increase a security teams effectiveness. |
| FA8649-23-P-0262 | Strategy-Driven AI Operating System | $74,993 | CYPRESS RESOURCES INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Cypress Resources, Inc. (Cypress) is developing a Strategy Operating System called StratAAS™. StratAAS™ is an Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven operating system for strategy, including governance, automated strategic budgeting requests, AI-driven requirements documentation, and fully-integrated digital dashboarding. StratAAS™ calculates and optimizes FTE resources required for strategy execution, improves operational efficiency, reduces labor on redundant tasks, and provides clarity for completed commitments. According to the 2018 National Defense Strategy Commission Report, the DOD struggles to connect strategic objectives to the operational concepts, capabilities, program, and resources needed to achieve success. "This deficit in analytical capability, expertise, and processes is intolerable in an organization responsible for such complex, expensive, and important tasks, and it must be remedied." (Providing-for-the-common-defense.pdf pg 42*) Since 2010, Cypress has been both utilizing and refining the StratAAS™ with commercial clients. We have sold custom StratAAS™ implementation services for 12 years. Our total revenues for Cypress implementing elements of StratAAS™ to date are over $12.1M, including implementing StratAAS™ into our highlighted client below over the past 36 months. We plan to add additional StratAAS™ services this year that will likely double our most recent 12 months of StratAAS™ revenue. The effective implementation of new operational concepts is urgently needed within the DoD. Operational concepts constitute the essential link between strategic objectives, capabilities, and budgetary priorities needed to advance them. Using an operating system to implement these operational concepts is the most-effective way to achieve and measure desired outcomes. "We believe that the NDS points the Department of Defense (DOD) and the country in the right direction, but it does not adequately explain how we should get there." "The United States needs more than just new capabilities; it urgently requires new operational concepts that expand U.S. options and constrain those of China, Russia, and other actors." "Making informed decisions about strategic, operational, and force development issues requires a foundation of state-of-the-art analytical capabilities. In the course of our work, we found that DOD struggled to link objectives to operational concepts to capabilities to programs and resources. This deficit in analytical capability, expertise, and processes is intolerable in an organization responsible for such complex, expensive, and important tasks, and it must be remedied.” |
| FA8649-23-P-0420 | Novel Oral Sorbent Therapy for the Prevention and Treatment of Traveler’s Diarrhea | $74,955 | CYTOSORBENTS MEDICAL INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | We propose a novel oral technology for the treatment of traveler’s diarrhea (TD). TD is often caused by enteric bacteria that secrete endotoxins. In the gut, these toxins can cause the severe symptoms seen in TD, including pain, cramping, and voluminous diarrhea that can eventually lead to dehydration. The proposed solution binds to and sequesters the bacterial toxins that directly cause the symptoms. The therapy can be taken either preventively, before symptoms begin, or at the onset of symptoms. The therapy is dry, meaning it is lightweight and extremely stable, and thus suitable for use in front line or austere environments and can be easily stockpiled. The treatment can be self-administered – a small packet of only a few grams can be mixed with drinking water and taken orally. The treatment is not pathogen-specific, meaning it can be used to treat or prevent TD caused by a broad variety of pathogens. In Phase I, we will conduct a search for AF end-users. Our Phase II efforts will include an in vivo efficacy study in a highly translationally relevant model system of TD. The system, Aotus monkeys infected with one or more of the pathogens that cause TD (e.g., enterotoxigenic E. coli, Shigella, or Campylobacter), is well-established in the lab of our collaborators. The system is frequently used in DoD studies on the development of vaccines for the prevention of TD. Importantly, our therapy is compatible with vaccines, antibody-mediated therapies, over-the-counter remedies, and the use of antibiotics, meaning it can integrate well with current standard of care and with other DoD efforts to address this problem. |
| FA8649-23-P-0777 | Novel Sorbent Technology for the Rapid Treatment of Acute Joint Injury and Inflammation | $74,918 | CYTOSORBENTS MEDICAL INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/12/2023 | 08/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Joint injuries, whether sustained during training or in the field, are a major source of lost duty days in the military. The immediate effects are severe pain, swelling and inflammation, which can compromise warfighter readiness and result in significant |
| FA2394-23-C-B065 | ACC Enhanced with Ceramic Matrix via Reactive Melt Infiltration for Scramjet Duct Applications | $1,247,680 | Carbon Carbon Advanced Technologies, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D020 | 08/31/2023 | 12/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | A concept for a modular axially-segmented nozzle assembly to interface with an existing direct connect scram test facility is proposed. The expected cost and technical effort to fabricate two complete assemblies is presented, with both assemblies having r |
| SP4701-23-C-0053 | Accelerated Processing with Geometry-Specific Pyrolysis Heating Profiles for Production of C-C Hot Structures | $500,000 | Carbon Carbon Advanced Technologies, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | DLA231-D07 | 09/13/2023 | 09/13/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | The highest-risk processing step in manufacturing C-CAT’s ACC material is the initial carbonization cycle, during which a C/Ph composite preform is carbonized to produce a low-density C/C part to be subsequently densified using a Polymer Infiltration and Pyrolysis (PIP) process. Though the carbonization steps of the PIP densification cycles also present a risk, it is during the initial cycle that the most mass loss, dimensional change, and loss in strengths is experienced by the part, maximizing the potential for the generation of interlaminar stresses which exceed the in-process interlaminar strengths. To mitigate these risks, the current practice is to apply a standard, very conservative heating profile for all parts, with significant implications to lead times, throughput, and location of bottlenecks within the manufacturing process, particularly for production programs. C-CAT currently supports three production programs in the fields of hypersonics and space access: aeroshells for the Lockheed Martin AGM-183a, nozzle extensions for the Aerojet Rocketdyne RL-10C liquid rocket engine (LRE), and nozzle extensions for the Virgin Orbit NewtonFour LRE. All three, as well as potential future programs, could potentially benefit significantly in cost, schedule, and delivery rates with an ability to optimize heating profiles based on part geometry. In recent years, C-CAT has collaborated with Materials Research & Design, Inc. (MR&D) to support MR&D’s development of computational tools designed to predict the behavior of phenolic-derived carbon-carbon (C/C) materials during manufacturing. The current iteration of the model is complete, and has been verified and validated extensively. However, it cannot yet be confidently used in tailoring temperature profiles to part geometry, as too much uncertainty exists in the in-process strengths and other in-process material properties for it to be used without the potential of unintentionally dramatically increasing scrap rates. The effort outlined in this proposal would generate the data necessary to be able to optimize heating profiles to accelerate processing and potentially increase throughput, while also providing a means for estimating and minimizing scrap given the measured processing and material variability. |
| 140D0423C0028 | Advanced Low-SWAP Neuromorphic Autonomy for Nano UAS | $1,799,567 | Centeye, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | SB151-006 | 12/21/2022 | 12/26/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | We will build a low SWAP neuromorphic vision system and integrate it onto a Centeye nano UAS enabling 1) autonomous detection and avoidance of obstacles including cables as thin as 0.5mm, 2) flight through gaps, tunnels, and shafts as small as 20cm across, and 3) autonomous egress after ingress. The system will function in all ambient light levels. We will test and refine the system through many iterations of flight testing and advance the system to a TRL 7. We will develop the system to be compatible with the PX4 autopilot framework and ensure the system is NDAA-compliant. The vision system in final form will weigh between 1 and 3 grams and be suitable for use on any "nano" or "cargo pocket" UAS. |
| H9240523C0008 | AI Driven Swarming AUVs | $1,306,622 | Certus Core, Inc. | STTR | Phase II | SOCOM22D-ST01 | 09/28/2023 | 03/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | To support Next Generation Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Situational Awareness applied research goals, Certus Group proposes the deployment of multiple Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) in a meshed configuration to enable collaborative autonomous sensing on littoral targets of strategic interest in a GPS denied environment. In order to develop this capability, a number of technologies would have to be integrated; however many of the individual components that comprise the features of this capability already exist and are mature today. AUVs employing underwater sensing packages (LiDAR, SONAR, etc) have been in existence for some time and are now smaller and relatively less expensive in recent years. Additionally, modern AUVs are deployed with the necessary edge processing devices to enable AI/ML based sensing and detection as well as conditional autonomous responses that enable autonomously triggered follow-on actions. Hydroacoustic communications systems have matured into small, deployable, low power devices enabling AUVs to communicate to each other as well as to other vessel-based communications platforms. AUV guidance and navigation have also matured with many viable non-GPS based solutions to support operating in denied or restrictive environments. Certus Group has identified and is proposing SOF-peculiar ontology development to support SOCOM use cases for collaborative sensing on targets of potential interest: autonomous collaborative responses from multiple deployed AUV platforms specialized for SOF missions; the simulation and data operations environments to support the collection, storage, and processing of real-time data as well as the creation of simulated data in order to train and test SOF-peculiar models. Additionally through their partners USF-IAE, Beam Sea LLC and Tampa Deep Sea eXplorers Certus Group is proposing optical communications utilizing the already deployed LiDAR system on the Tampa Deep Sea eXplorers AUV. Fielding these solutions in an active port environment that is a short drive from SOCOM HQ will add to the solution’s effectiveness by incorporating real active AUVs, other commercial vessel traffic, and an urban maritime port environment into the modeling and algorithm development process. The proximity to SOCOM will also enable rapid feedback on demonstrations due to the proximity to a valuable user community there. Special Operations Forces lack some of the key data, digital, and physical infrastructure needed to field collaborative sensing AUVs against a near peer competitor in the Strategic Competition environment. Certus Group proposes the creation of that infrastructure to support near term problems such as Underwater Collaborative AUV sensing but also the creation of other SOF specific ontologies that enable small, autonomous platforms to be fielded by SOF Warriors supporting Strategic Competition missions. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7113 | Advanced Superlattice LED System (ASLEDS) | $1,510,000 | Chip Design Systems Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-018 | 02/08/2023 | 02/07/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Single-color MWIR LED arrays have made steady progress in demonstrating good performance, operability, efficiency, and reliability. On the other hand, dual-color MWIR LED arrays are highly desirable for testing dual color sensors. Compared to the optical combining approach, native dual-color LED arrays offer many benefits, including reduced system size and simpler optical system design. The proposed effort aims to develop a 2-color IRLED projector with higher resolution and higher frame rate than previously achieved. The proposed effort will also develop a high-speed interface between GPU and PCIe to facilitate large data transfer bandwidth requirements for anticipated hypersonics test scenarios. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| W911SR-23-C-0022 | Stable Antimicrobial Formulation of Scopolamine for Multi-dose Vial | $549,741 | Clear Scientific, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | CBD212-004 | 08/04/2023 | 08/04/2025 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | Treatment for acute nerve agent poisoning would greatly benefit from the additional use of a scopolamine hydrobromide injectable. However, addition of a single-dose scopolamine injectable to the warfighter kit represents a substantial logistical burden in the field. A multi-dose vial formulation of scopolamine that is effectively antimicrobial and stable in the field would alleviate logistical burdens while significantly adding to medical capabilities and treatments in far forward operations. We propose to continue developing our effectively antimicrobial multi-dose vial scopolamine hydrobromide solution, demonstrating a real shelf-life at least 2 years, container-closure compatibility, a stable active use-life of no less than 28 days post needle punction, and manufacturing feasibility. The formulation will meet all USP and FDA requirements for a multi-dose vial, and will be developed under a 505(b)(2) ANDA drug approval pathway. |
| FA8649-23-P-0704 | Reverse ETL for ML: ?Artificial Intelligence Integration into Legacy Applications | $74,543 | Cloud Cyber Networks Operations and AI LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Reverse ML creates a connection between existing Data sources and Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) Model Repositories helping users to deploy transformative AI models into existing applications delivering game-changing information an o |
| FA8649-23-P-1170 | Artificial Intelligence Integration Platform (AIIP) | $1,249,666 | Cloud Cyber Networks Operations and AI LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 07/20/2023 | 07/20/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Big Data Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, and Augmented Intelligence are key to helping humans and non-defense commercial organizations in industries ranging from cybersecurity to finance and marketing. Ninety percent of the world’s data was created in |
| FA8649-23-P-0251 | Artificial Intelligence Integration Platform (AIIP) | $74,936 | Cloud Cyber Networks Operations and AI LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To address the Air Force’s need to more rapidly employ Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning models against multi-domain near-peer threats, AI Squared is continuing the development of a new human-machine interface designed to integrate AI/ML derived information into existing applications so users don’t have to learn new tools. The Artificial Intelligence Integration Platform (AIIP) integrates AI/ML model results directly into end-user workflows through Reverse Extract, Transform, and Load (ETL) and visualized with Augmented Analytics configured to the user's web application. This platform accelerates the project-to-prototype timeline of AI projects, reduces time, and IT costs across human-machine teaming projects, and helps deliver insights to the warfighter in challenging field environments increasing survivability and lethality. AI Squared enables users to deploy transformative AI/ML models into existing applications delivering game-changing information an order of magnitude faster and cheaper than creating stand-alone tools. |
| W51701-23-C-0007 | DETECT-ML: Detection of Energetic Topology Errors via Computed Tomography & Machine Learning | $249,891 | [ Compotech, Inc. ] | SBIR | Phase I | A224-013 | 01/11/2023 | 07/17/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Compotech, Inc. seeks to build on our award winning FRAG-CT munition characterization method by developing a new complementary software and hardware package to provide rapid, real-time defect detection at the heart of a munition’s explosive core. The detection technique leverages proven AI/ML detection software algorithms and high speed CT scanning equipment. |
| W9132T-23-P-0007 | Large-scale Additive Manufacturing R&D to Advance Modular Shelter Design and Deployment | $110,653 | [ Compotech, Inc. ] | SBIR | Phase I | A22-013 | 03/31/2023 | 09/30/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Shelter system technologies provide vital support to U.S. military personnel during in-theatre operations and peace-time continuity. Soldiers, logistics experts, and decision makers across the chain of command require shelter systems that perform in austere environments while also being cost-effective, resilient, durable, and easily maintained. For land-based conflicts in more remote locations and challenging environments such as the Arctic Circle or Saharan North Africa, expeditionary shelter systems offer less permanent accommodations yet can enhance mission speed and safety when coupled with improved energy savings and structural enhancements that yield minimal weight. Most existing systems lack the innovations required to maintain maximum mobility of the fighting force, while also ensuring high energy efficiency, sustainability, durability, and soldier protection. Compotech, in collaboration with its strategic partners, has developed key shelter system innovations that are practical and effective. Compotech works closely with Army subject matter experts (SMEs) who develop the requirements and specifications for panelized military shelters and our engineering team has the know-how to meet all the requirements. To date, Compotech has developed and fielded two versions of these panelized shelter systems. Compotech and the Advanced Structures and Composites Center (ASCC) at the University of Maine (UMaine) are partnering on this SBIR to create a winning team that combines Compotech’s years of experience designing military shelters with ASCC’s latest bio-based additive manufacturing (AM) technology. UMaine's talented team of engineers and scientists has been researching bio-based composite materials for over 20 years and recently applied this technology to large scale AM. The UMaine team has successfully manufactured a vehicle mounted military shelter for the US Army, a logistics vessel for the US Marines, and an energy efficient bio-based home for the Department of Energy. UMaine was selected as Compotech’s AM partner based on their extensive experience with bio-based materials along with their capability to design, manufacture, and test large additive structures. The goal is to advance AM materials and processes, along with innovative process-specific shelter designs, to facilitate 3D printing on site using locally derived, sustainable materials. Compotech’s team will print and test near-continuous full-scale beams, columns, and panels using the proven bio-based material produced using the ASCC’s BAAM printer. The BAAM printer rapidly deposits material at a rate of up to 100 lb/hr. Producing components with the BAAM printer eliminates the need for expensive tooling to produce a shelter. The technology developed in this SBIR has the potential to revolutionize panelized shelter production and it will change how the military designs future shelters. |
| FA5606-23-C-0013 | Concept Plus Enterprise Automated Sourcing Fabric (EASF) | $179,936 | Concept Plus, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0018 | 08/30/2023 | 08/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Concept Plus is proposing the Enterprise Automated Sourcing Fabric (EASF) and processes to “develop an automated sourcing supply solution that is compatible with DoD information systems and other developmental technology to bridge current USAF maintenance |
| N68335-23-C-0623 | Continuous Fiber Additive Manufacturing of US Navy Propulsion Shafting | $144,651 | Continuous Composites Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-047 | 07/26/2023 | 02/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Continuous Fiber 3D (CF3D) manufacturing is a cutting-edge composite manufacturing technology that has the potential to enable higher-performing (e.g., specific stiffness, dimensional stability) and lower-cost (e.g., less material waste, minimized part count, reduced touch labor) structures for future Navy applications. CF3D works by combining dry fiber tows with liquid snap-curing thermoset resin inside of a print head on the end of a six-axis robotic arm. As the green composite is discharged and consolidated, it is snap-cured into place enabling the manufacturing of complex composite structures (e.g., fiber steering, stacking, tight contours) with high fiber volume fractions (>50%) and low void volume fractions (<2%). The Navy continues its use of innovative propulsion shaft designs, which will benefit from advanced manufacturing techniques such as CF3D. The proposed innovation is to enable large, thick walled shafts to be made using the emerging CF3D® manufacturing process that is suitable for Navy submarine use. This proposal endeavors to advance and characterize the CF3D materials and process through testing of torsional strength, property scaling, and manufacturing processes. Testing will be conducted at the coupon and representative structure sub-scale. The equipment manufactured and processes developed by Continuous Composite will enable many innovators and manufacturers to develop hardware for the Navy and customers with unique composite needs. Phase I Base will include cylindrical coupon testing and larger shaft builds. Phase I Option with include further development, FEA and test planning for Phase II. |
| N68335-23-C-0377 | Topology Optimized High-Rate, Reduced Life Cycle Cost Airframe using CF3D® | $144,459 | Continuous Composites Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-069 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Continuous Fiber 3D (CF3D) manufacturing is a cutting-edge composite manufacturing technology that has the potential to enable higher-performing (e.g., specific stiffness, specific strength) and lower-cost (e.g., less material waste, minimized part count, reduced touch labor) structures for future Navy applications. CF3D works by combining dry fiber tows with liquid snap-curing thermoset resin inside of a print head on the end of a six-axis robotic arm. As the green composite is discharged and consolidated, it is snap-cured into place enabling the manufacturing of complex composite structures (e.g., fiber steering, stacking, tight contours) with high fiber volume fractions (>50%) and low void volume fractions (<2%). Advanced manufacturing techniques such as CF3D will benefit the Navy greatly as it continues innovative high rate, low life cycle airframes. The proposed innovation is to enable topology optimized, fiber-steered, stiffened structures to be made using the emerging CF3D® manufacturing process that is suitable for Navy UAV use. This proposal endeavors to advance and characterize the CF3D® materials and process through testing and preliminary model validation. Testing will be conducted at the coupon and representative structure sub-scale. The equipment manufactured and processes developed by Continuous Composite will enable many innovators and manufacturers to develop hardware for the Navy and customers with unique composite needs. Phase I Base will include coupon, intersection, and stiffened panel testing along with the development and delivery of a topology optimized stiffened panel. Phase I Option with include further development, testing, FEA and test planning for Phase II. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7407 | Hyperspectral Sensor for Scene Characterization | $1,799,792 | Control Vision, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | MDA22-D006 | 03/20/2023 | 03/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Control Vision, Inc. (CVI) proposes a flight-worthy calibrated visible snapshot hyperspectral sensor prototype for use on an MDA test mission. Approved for Public Release | 23-MDA-11401 (14 Mar 23) |
| FA8649-23-P-0881 | Autonomous Space Exploration System with Swarms of Spacecraft in GPS Denied Environments | $74,991 | Controlx, Inc. | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ControlX-ERAU team proposes developing distributed resilient learning control and estimation systems for space exportation with swarms of non-homogeneous spacecraft consisting of heterogeneous vehicles (e.g., planetary rovers and flyers) that can exhibit |
| FA8649-23-P-0554 | Experimental Testbed for Development and Validation of Autonomous ISAM / OSAM Systems | $1,700,000 | Controlx, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 02/16/2023 | 05/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | A new era of affordable space flight, satellite refueling, on-orbit inspection, orbit transfer, end-of-life servicing, has begun as a result of the space industry's continued focus on safe, resilient, and adaptable space vehicles. These developments have |
| N68936-23-C-0018 | Active Low-Voltage Thin-Film Lithium Niobate Electro-Optic Modulator | $139,670 | Critical Frequency Design, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-010 | 08/18/2023 | 02/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Microwave photonics (MWP) offers many advantages for analog signal processing: operation across large frequency ranges with wide bandwidths, low-loss signal transport via optical fiber with excellent immunity to electromagnetic interference, low return loss and high isolation with switches and circulators, among many others. But the conversion of an electrical signal to an optical signal has historically been so poor, it has kept MWP from being implemented. An electro-optic modulator must have strong conversion efficiency, low insertion loss, a flat frequency response, and a high optical power threshold to enable the many possible applications of MWP systems. |
| N68335-23-C-0395 | DIGITAL ENGINEERING - Integration of Fiber Optics Systems Design, Supportability, and Maintainability | $139,830 | Critical Frequency Design, LLC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T002 | 05/24/2023 | 11/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Advancements in optical transport and signal processing for digital and Microwave Photonics (MWP) technology have enabled higher bandwidth, throughput, Dynamic Range (DR), and communication link budgets. Optical transport eliminates heavy shielded twisted pair or coaxial cables, reducing Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) and provides Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) immunity compared to traditional Radio Frequency (RF) and digital interfaces and mediums. The United States (US) Navy Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and Joint Forces are developing new Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR), communications, Electronic Warfare (EW), RADAR, and core airborne avionic systems that are enhanced by the performance improvements and SWaP reductions provided by digital and microwave photonics. Avionics development programs are expected to have digital and analog/Radio Frequency (RF) signal transmission rates and operating frequencies where photonics is the only logical medium with the capacity and low loss characteristics for maintaining signal integrity. Recent progress in digital fiber optic communications has paved the way for data rates of 100 Gbps and higher. Research in MWP has shown the potential for dramatic improvements to the performance and capability of analog/RF systems using phase modulation with interferometric detection or intensity modulation with direct detection, based on component improvements such as modulator sensitivity and photodetector bandwidth. The Navy is interested in applying these advances to its platforms but lacks the tools to incorporate them into already complex systems. While photonics offers many potential benefits, incorporating these new technologies into existing systems introduces new interfaces and subsystems, increasing overall complexity dramatically. Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is an ideal solution to understand these complexities and tradeoffs of design decisions. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7511 | X DRLSGT | $149,823 | Cynnovative, LLC | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T004 | 11/23/2022 | 05/22/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Cynnovative proposes Explainable Deep Reinforcement Learning with Symbolically Guided Transitions (X DRLSGT) to improve the transparency and, thus, the explainability of deep reinforcement learning (DRL) algorithms. The inability to understand the reasoning behind an Artificial Intelligence’s (AI) decision is a major limiting factor that prevents AI-enabled physical systems from being deployed alongside humans. This is especially true for the warfighter and analysts who must regularly manage high volumes of information at any given time and who could benefit significantly from working with an AI, which could process large amounts of information quickly and expose only the necessary elements to the operator. Our proposed approach will improve explainability in DRL by extracting meaningful and transparent information from the model that the agent uses to reason about the world. We will accomplish this by leveraging a model-based reinforcement learning algorithm that learns to represent the world in a way that can be used to ultimately derive meaningful information from the mind of the agent. This will provide insight into how the agent sees the world and how it expects the world to change. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| HR001123C0118 | Workable Hierarchical Impersonation using Reinforcement Learning (WHIRL) | $1,791,604 | Cynnovative, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | HR0011SB20234-02 | 08/14/2023 | 08/14/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Workable Hierarchical Impersonation using Reinforcement Learning (WHIRL) will generate realistic synthetic data without artifacts at scale by utilizing hierarchical reinforcement learning and a hypervisor to allow for “off-box” execution of long-term goals, mid-term tasks, passed through a shim to a hypervisor that will execute them on the intended host. Team Cynnovative will use hierarchical reinforcement learning to simulate user behavior at the level a real user would: keyboard and mouse activity and observing a monitor. By simulating on real hardware and executing “off-box,” WHIRL enables the collection of the generated synthetic data via any traditional means a WHIRL user desires without introducing any artifacts or biases. User persona research for SUP is a method of understanding the characteristics and behavior patterns of specific groups of users to gain insights into the motivations, goals, and needs of these user groups and inform the design and development of effective cybersecurity strategies. This research seeks to understand how users interact with network systems, applications, and data to design policies that enable a user to operate successfully while maintaining a robust security posture. The autonomous agent for WHIRL is rewarded for taking actions to achieve a goal, such as browsing the web or using an excel sheet or operating in a terminal. Feedback from the environment informs the agent how well it accomplishes the task. A fully trained agent can act as a defined synthetic user enables the generation and collection of robust datasets representative of realistic user behavior. Team Cynnovative’s solution will be operating on the raw pixels of a screen capture which puts reinforcement learning in a real-world domain with an observation space where it has succeeded in the past, effectively eliminating the simulation to real-world problems. Reinforcement learning can operate on pixel data and elicit realistic, emergent behaviors with ground truth. WHIRL operates “off-box” on real hardware (via hypervisor), enabling the collection of synthetic data the way the data is normally collected. This means that the users of the WHIRL system will not have to worry about learning how to collect via another platform but will enable them to leverage existing knowledge and tools and not worry about filtering for any artifacts or biases. |
| N68335-23-C-0192 | Intelligent Tactical Assistant for Active SONAR (ITAAS) | $1,199,922 | DANIEL H WAGNER ASSOCIATES INC | SBIR | Phase II | N211-073 | 02/06/2023 | 02/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Modern active sonar systems leverage numerous software tools to detect, classify, and track submarine threats. These tools include advanced signal processing algorithms, automated data association and tracking algorithms, contact classification algorithms, and tactical decision aids (TDAs) which attempt to recommend best practices to the user based upon the overall tactical picture. Ultimately, the final authority on target classification and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) strategy is the sonar operator. However, the large amount of data used for classification and tracking, combined with the contextual data generated by the TDAs, contributes to a significant cognitive demand on operators, who must leverage all available information to keep track of threats, and devise strategies to ensure mission success. To mitigate the cognitive demand and improve the quality of information available to active sonar operators, Daniel H. Wagner Associates, Inc. (DHWA) proposes an Intelligent Tactical Assistant for Active SONAR (ITAAS) that will improve the operator’s situational awareness by providing an enhanced tactical picture generated by analytically combining detailed information concerning: (1) acoustic environmental conditions (and their uncertainty), (2) potential target evasion tactics, and (3) expected costs and benefits of multiple target-specific ASW search techniques/doctrine. |
| FA8651-23-P-A008 | Distributed Data Fusion for Collaborative Automatic Target Acquisition | $149,986 | DANIEL H WAGNER ASSOCIATES INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0005 | 12/20/2022 | 09/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Daniel H. Wagner Associates, Inc. (DHWA) is offering a product that provides a Distributed Common Operating Picture (DCOP) across multiple heterogeneous sensing platforms. This technology allows for near-real-time collaborative ATA/ATR in multi-target, multi-agent environments. A variety of tracking filters and state space models ensures the system can process tracks from most active and passive sensors, and handle targets with variable operating modalities. Information flow optimization provides sophisticated prioritization, filtering and compression capabilities that optimize data flow and recovery from communication outages, ensuring all platforms arrive at the DCOP in an efficient manner. |
| N68335-23-C-0641 | Perceptually Lossless Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) Sensor Data Compression | $139,907 | DANIEL H WAGNER ASSOCIATES INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-038 | 08/04/2023 | 02/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The critical role Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUV) play in Naval operations is constrained by their ability to send large volumes of sensor data to warfighters. Thus, compression technology which retains all features of the data needed for human analysis, called perceptually lossless compression, is required. Additionally, our Autoencoder Compression Enhancement for UUV Sensor Data (ACE4USD) system must operate with error prone communication links. To do this, ACE4USD will utilize Deep Neural Network (DNN) based autoencoders to extract key features of UUV sensor data. ACE4DSU will choose features which are substantially smaller than the observed sensor data, but nevertheless permit perceptually lossless reconstruction of the sensor data. ACE4USD will exploit unsupervised learning techniques for DNNs which make these features amenable to further compression by conventional methods. ACE4USD will also use DNN denoising autoencoders to deliver perceptually lossless sensor data to warfighters in the presence of error prone communication links. |
| N68335-23-C-0025 | Project Fins | $239,996 | DARE VENTURE GROUP LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N222-114 | 11/07/2022 | 03/18/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | To address the DON’s need for developing methods to produce accurate riblet profiles in outer mold line (OML) surfaces that yield significant drag savings, fuel cost savings and extended range for USN aircraft, DARE Venture Group is partnered with MicroTau to deliver that exact development related to specific US Naval aircraft requirements. This project includes objectives encompassing the research of specific US Navy-driven requirements in terms of the design, manufacturing, testing, resiliency and projected outcomes of a particular solution for riblets. The effort continues commercial research into the required defense adaptations of the technology beginning with a deep understanding of US Navy objectives and requirements that will dictate features of the riblet design, manufacturing, installation and maintenance. From there, the team will research the translation of those stated objectives and requirements into the report recommending design, manufacturing, installation and maintenance (as well as additional variances for consideration) to best achieve outlined objectives. Finally, the report will also include a comprehensive rough order of magnitude (ROM) for follow on development and testing of the solution in a potential SBIR Phase II engagement. |
| FA8649-23-P-0050 | Project Stardust | $1,249,913 | DARE VENTURE GROUP LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 11/09/2022 | 08/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Dare Venture Group (Dare) is a technology integrator developing critical data transport and analysis solutions for unique enterprise solutions. Each requirement touches and leverages data in different formats from disparate sources and applies unique business logic based on the customer requirements. Dare applies operations-minded solutions to securely collect and transport edge data, provide rapid analysis and address the speed and reliability of data streams to quickly get data into the hands of decision-makers. Our technology stitches together the optimal data preparation, curation techniques, and tools for each use case. Our team leverages industry best data practices to create and refine algorithms to detect security anomalies. Dare works with our customers to develop risk threshold matrices that guide an action path for detected anomalies based on their enterprise environment and desired outcomes. Dare is leveraged by defense and non-defense customers, Constellis, Parsons, Leidos, Cyxtera, Department of Energy, Department of State, INDOPACOM, and U.S. Army Pacific to provide 60% more efficient fusion of disparate, siloed data and complete security monitoring. As the amount of data created increases and the need to leverage that data for rapid effective decision-making becomes more urgent, our human-in/on-the-loop, force-multiplying technology addresses a mission-critical need for our customers. |
| FA8649-23-P-0272 | DARK MASS | $73,771 | DARK WOLF SOLUTIONS, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | DARK MASS will be delivered as a Software as a Service (SaaS) subscription-based product that provides quick access to vetted product data, a streamlined software procurement workflow, and built-in management and monitoring tools to secure software toolchains. While DARK MASS could replace an entire toolchain management lifecycle, it is modular to integrate with and enhance a customer’s existing processes and systems and can connect with commonly used tools such as JIRA. DARK MASS consists of two core features: 1. Product Research and 2. Toolchain Management. For the research capability, DARK MASS comprises a library of product and company data, which will be procured through a combination of complex web-scraping and manual inputs and impressions of internal Subject Matter Experts. Some product data is static and will be scraped from different reliable online sources such as the product website. Other types of data are more abstract and are considered “expert impressions,” i.e., points of educated opinion from Subject Matter Experts (SME) such as “product is considered low cost,” “considered easy to learn,” or “good for smaller teams.” These abstract data points help provide more meaningful comparisons between products, especially when overlaid with information such as product costs which can vary significantly between environments. Key functions include: Product data will be continually updated and will help inform the Toolchain Management wing of DARK MASS by scraping and monitoring for new products, new license types, and security risks: New product monitoring will scan the internet for products or solutions that may be similar or superior to products currently employed in a customer’s toolchain, with related alerts; Potential security risks will be identified by scanning the internet for public disclosures of risk in products employed in the customer’s toolchain; Each product within a customer’s toolchain will be categorized based on how critical it is to the software toolchain as a whole: Critical products such as CI/CD and cloud infrastructure will be considered “Toolchain Core” products; Less critical products such as event management and logging tools will be considered “Toolchain Secondary;” “Supplementary Products” are products that are not directly connected to the deployment itself, such as Slack or JIRA; Regardless of categorization, DARK MASS will notify and recommend a course of action or contingency product related to a potential security breach. Both Product Research and Toolchain Management features will be displayed via the DARK MASS user interface. Product Research will comprise details, e.g., product name and evaluation criteria. The Toolchain Management will focus on toolchain health and status based on the nature of a risk and the types of products it affects within the toolchain. This will create awareness of critical updates and potential security threats or compromises to the toolchain. |
| FA8649-23-P-0092 | Arctic Small Uncrewed Aerial System (sUAS) | $74,901 | DARKHIVE INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The YELLOWJACKET MK1A is a low-cost (under $10K per unit) modification to the Darkhive MK1 and is designed to support arctic sUAS operations for both the military and public safety communities, capable of sustained operations in -40 degree F temperatures and wind speeds up to 20mph sustained and 30mph gusts. Innovations in battery chemistry, component hardening, frame design, and low-feature terrain visual-inertial navigation for GPS-denied environments will all be required to meet user needs. |
| FA8649-23-P-1132 | Enabling Arctic Operations with Small Uncrewed Aerial System Optimized for Cold Weather Environments | $1,249,285 | DARKHIVE INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 09/25/2023 | 03/26/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To date, cold and harsh weather environments have proven challenging for all UAS. Strong winds, low-feature terrain, and temperatures below freezing significantly impact endurance, survivability, and navigation of small platforms in winter environments. |
| FA8649-23-P-1133 | FLEETFORGE DevMLSecOps for Small Uncrewed Aerial Systems | $1,249,443 | DARKHIVE INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 09/25/2023 | 03/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Special Tactics airmen within INDOPACOM utilizing tactical small, uncrewed aerial systems (sUAS) for operations in remote environments require the ability to effectively deploy multiple platforms controlled by a single operator. FLEETFORGE, being develope |
| FA8649-23-P-1193 | Modular Attritable SUAS Swarm-delivered Effects | $1,249,108 | DARKHIVE INC. | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 08/01/2023 | 02/03/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | US peer adversaries are employing sophisticated electronic warfare and space-based weapons to deny navigation and communication signals across broad geographic areas that inhibit UAS navigation and C2 capabilities, negating the DoD's competitive advantage |
| FA8750-23-C-B003 | Hands-free Integrated Digital Operations System (HI-DOS) | $1,249,350 | DARKHIVE INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF221-0012 | 09/08/2023 | 09/08/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Darkhive's Hands-free Integration Digital Operations System (HI-DOS) is an open, Government-off-the-shelf (GOTS) voice command and control (VC2) and authentication framework adapted to the uniquely challenging environments our military personnel and broad |
| FA8649-23-P-0088 | FLEETFORGE DevMLSecOps for UAS | $74,883 | DARKHIVE INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The FLEETFORGE Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery (CI/CD) software pipeline is an adaptation of Darkhive’s internally operated REDQUEEN platform designed to build, test, secure, and deploy our UAS software capabilities to and manage large numbers of our YELLOWJACKET drone product line. Utilizing modern software development, security, and operations (DevSecOps) processes, tools, and USAF adopted platform products such as Big Bang, Party Bus, and Iron Bank from Platform One, FLEETFORGE would provide an integration mechanism for software-based advanced autonomy capabilities, new machine learning object recognition models, and collaborative swarm behaviors to be rapidly and securely deployed to fleets of USAF uncrewed air systems (UAS). |
| FA8750-23-C-0107 | Pre-Custody Threat Warning with Machine Learning on Images | $149,962 | DATA FUSION & NEURAL NETWORKS, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SF224-0001 | 04/07/2023 | 01/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Our proposal is to provide "an automated process that runs at sensor locations to recognize potential threat events in collected imagery to alert operators on relevant timelines" (e.g., |
| FA8649-23-P-1024 | Anti-Access Area Denial Small Uncrewed Aerial System Reconnaissance | $1,249,211 | DARKHIVE INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 08/15/2023 | 02/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As the Center for Strategic and International Studies described in 2021, “The Chinese military is taking major steps toward improving its electronic warfare (EW), communications, and intelligence-gathering capabilities near the South China Sea. Recent sat |
| FA8649-23-P-0340 | Anti-Access Area Denial (A2AD) Small Uncrewed Aerial System (sUAS) Attritable Effects | $74,993 | DARKHIVE INC. | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/07/2022 | 02/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The YELLOWJACKET MK1E is a low-cost (under $10K per unit) modification to the Darkhive MK1 model and is designed to carry a small, electromagnetic pulse (EMP) generator payload and autonomously navigate in GNSS and communications-denied environments utilizing visual inertial odometry (VIO) techniques. Locally hosted machine learning object detection models enable the MK1E to autonomously identify critical targets the software has been pre-trained to recognize, fly in close-range, and activate the EMP to disable embedded electronic components. Darkhive, in cooperation with the University of Alaska Center for UAS Integration (ACUASI), is proposing the enhancement of the YELLOWJACKET MK1 tactical sUAS to create the MK1E (EMP) variant capable of operating and delivering non-kinetic effects in contested A2AD environments in which US Air Force Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) and Special Reconnaissance (SR) airmen conduct critical AFSPECWAR mission sets like rapid reconnaissance. Enabling tactical users operating within A2AD environments to deliver disruptive effects to adversary command and control (C2) nodes, Electromagnetic Warfare (EW) sensors, Radar systems, and mobility platforms is critical to mission success in both current and future contested areas of responsibility (AORs). The key outcome of the feasibility study will be validation of the technical approach to developing a MK1E design that satisfies the requirements of users responsible for conducting the TACP mission with whom Darkhive is heavily engaged. |
| 140D0423C0014 | DASH - I/O | $1,767,751 | DASH TECH INTEGRATED CIRCUITS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | HR0011SB20224-13 | 03/01/2023 | 03/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The DASH SoC provides efficient, flexible, high-performance processing for sensing and communications edge applications. High-performance processors are primarily limited by inter-chip data transfer and latency, which is further complicated by the inclusion of flexible I/O. Fortunately, the DASH SoC framework overcomes the classical trade between flexibility and efficiency. The ontologically driven analysis identifies critical inter-application kernel accelerators (for example, FFT, FEC). The DASH SoC also uses an efficient domain-adaptive processor (DAP) to fill the gaps. The DASH Software framework automates the traditionally complex task of mapping application tasks to accelerators and scheduling execution, reducing the barrier to new workload adoption. We extend this philosophy to create a flexible I/O framework for the heterogeneous DASH SoC. In the proposed work, we refine the DASH SoC and framework by identifying critical interfaces for a range of applications and by extending the DASH architecture to incorporate this I/O. We analyze a range of embedded processing applications to understand the I/O requirements, including inter-chip and intra-chip dataflow. We design and demonstrate a configuration-driven approach to I/O. This approach includes double data rate (DDR) support, external interfaces and protocols, high-speed sensor data, and other standard interfaces. We implement an architecture and SoC design incorporating this reconfigurable I/O IP to support different I/O requirements. We provide an SoC tapeout design. In collaboration with DARPA, we use this design on a DARPA-funded TAPO run, producing a demonstration-capable SoC. Finally, under our option, we develop and demonstrate a reference system that simplifies engineering efforts for transition partners. We enhance the next-generation embedded processor that dynamically and efficiently executes the computational needs of a wide range of commercial and DoD edge applications. Critically, we determine the I/O requirement of critical DoD applications and provide the modified architecture and physical design to address these needs. These enhanced, automated, reconfigurable I/O capabilities enable substantial transition opportunities and address feedback from potential transition partners. |
| HT9425-23-C-0050 | Direct Blood Volume Analyzer for Improvement of Combat Casualty Care | $1,099,997 | DAXOR CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | A18-122 | 06/29/2023 | 11/02/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Hemorrhage is the leading cause of preventable combat mortality. Despite recent advances in care, sustaining adequate tissue perfusion remains a challenge. Current practice for determining fluid status to guide battlefield resuscitation and transfusion, including clinical assessment and surrogate markers, often lag symptomatic diagnosis or misdiagnose the severity of volume derangement. Care is further complicated by the risks of under- and over-resuscitation, high patient heterogeneity, and scarcity of resources, especially during prolonged field care, and multi-domain operations. Precise guidance of fluid resuscitation and blood transfusion therefor remain urgent unmet operational priorities. Blood volume analysis (BVA) [BVA-100; Daxor Corporation, Oak Ridge, TN] is the only FDA-cleared method utilizing the gold standard indicator dilution technique for quantifying intravascular Blood Volume (BV). Extensive peer-reviewed medical literature has validated BVA’s enhancement of interventions through rapid, reliable, and accurate BV quantification. Daxor Corporation has successfully completed Phase I and II U.S. Army SBIR contracts to develop a rapid, portable, and robust point-of-care (POC) BVA system. The new diagnostic capability is designed to meet combat casualty care and civilian hospital clinical specifications, including demonstrated diagnostic accuracy and functionality for combat casualty and standard civilian clinical use. A prototype of the new device has been validated against the existing GS system to meet contract milestones, including to have greater than 95% accuracy quantifying patient BV, to provide patient-specific fluid resuscitation and red blood cell transfusion guidance. To complete requirements for the POC BVA system, the proposed sequential Phase II SBIR contract will support the completion of the following objectives: 1. Complete Design and Validation of POC instrument; 2. Obtain 510(k) clearance; 2. Pilot Build and Initial Rollout; and, 4. EMR integration. As a company publicly listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange with full time business, technical, and sales and marketing teams, Daxor is well positioned to complete the proposed technology development effort and successfully commercialize the resultant product. |
| FA8750-23-C-B001 | Rapid Activation Portable TACAN - Electronically Rotating (RAPTER) | $1,249,806 | DB Systems, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AF212-0001 | 06/20/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | dB Systems’ design concept is a Rapid Activation Portable TACAN - Electronically Rotated (RAPTER) which can be set up in under five minutes. The TACAN Antenna design is based upon the current AS-3240 TACAN Antenna design but completely revamped |
| W51701-23-C-0050 | AI Enabled Vehicle Recorder (AIEVR) | $1,685,998 | DEEP ANALYTICS LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-023 | 03/13/2023 | 09/27/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0797 | Panoramic Optical Drone Detection and Jamming | $74,938 | DEFENDER LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Drones have revolutionized warfare, with new tactics and use cases on display almost daily in Ukraine, Somalia and throughout the Tigray conflict in Ethiopia. sUAS are getting better, cheaper and more widely available. Rogue sUAS have been spotted over ma |
| FA8649-23-P-1025 | Digital Transformation Took Kit | $1,249,707 | DEFENSE ENGINEERING CORP | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/19/2023 | 01/20/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Department of the Air Force (DAF) Vision for Digital Transformation (DT) is "a digitally empowered Air Force equipped with an agile workforce, state-of-the-art technologies, and intuitive processes that drive model-based enterprise decision-making, en |
| W5170123C0027 | DES - Advanced Circuit Breaker Tech for PDM Solutions | $1,698,444 | DEFENSE ENGINEERING SERVICES LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-021 | 12/08/2022 | 07/03/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8649-23-P-0058 | Desktop as a Service for a Single Secure Software Baseline | $1,245,347 | [ DEFENSE UNICORNS, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 11/17/2022 | 11/17/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Within the DoD software ecosystem, Kubernetes, Desktops, and Virtual Machines are all on their own separate tech baselines. This creates a terrible user experience and makes it expensive to support and sustain capabilities. However, it is possible to support Desktops, VMs, and containers all for air-gapped Kubernetes at the edge. Doing so allows for easier accreditation, a better user experience, and significant cloud savings. All mission-centric organizations struggle to scale mission applications across a multitude of cloud, on-prem, and edge environments. Many of these organizations rely on desktop-native applications, or applications that cannot be fully containerized. The desktop-native architecture of these applications limits the ability to adopt common technical baselines such as Platform One’s Big Bang to accelerate and sustain continuous delivery. Many of these organizations have adopted digital engineering and DevSecOps practices prior to the availability of the DoD enterprise DevSecOps platform and now have a “forked” infrastructure baseline. Forked baselines complicate or prevent interactions between legacy and cloud native applications, limit the ability to leverage modern security technologies for system observability (e.g., monitoring, scanning, logging, and alerting), and require duplication of efforts to manage separate infrastructure stacks. To solve this specific problem, and demonstrate a solution applicable to many programs sustaining legacy applications, Defense Unicorns will validate and integrate a cloud-native Desktop-as-a-Service capability into Big Bang to allow virtual machines and desktop native applications to be orchestrated inside Big Bang-managed infrastructure. Defense Unicorns will also validate and demonstrate the ability to deploy Big Bang and the Desktop-as-a-Service capability with our air gap delivery tool, ZARF. As noted in Volume 5 “Prior, Current, or Pending Support of Similar Proposals or Awards,” Defense Unicorns previously submitted a Phase II proposal in November 2021 for related work, including a Desktop as a Service capability. The proposal (No F2-15138). was submitted to AFWERX against topic AF21A-TCSO1; the proposal resulted in contract award (contract No. FA864922P0692). The principal investigator was “Andrew Greene,” who remains employed by Defense Unicorns. This proposal was funded and the primary difference is that the effort under contract No. FA864922P0692 stops short of developing a Desktop as a Service capability; it developed a VM capability on k8s first. This current proposal would also be looking to combine that Desktop as a Service capability (Baffles) with Defense Unicorn’s Air Gap tool (Zarf). |
| FA8649-23-P-0905 | Pepr | $74,913 | [ DEFENSE UNICORNS, INC.] | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/17/2023 | 08/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Implementing modern cybersecurity within the DoD is hard. Too hard. The majority of program offices and weapon systems fail, long before they see many benefits. The number one reason these programs fail, is the inability to develop and sustain a secure and accreditable system. They spend the majority of their budget making the “platform”, and never actually get to the point of using the “platform” to deliver mission value. At Defense Unicorns we have developed a product called Pepr, which helps to automate the extension of DevSecOps cyber platforms to mission applications. Pepr provides a simple, standardized interface for needed security configurations that applications must incorporate to achieve continuous delivery within secure DoD systems. It does this by interacting with applications leveraging Kubernetes and VM based architectures, and integrating the applications configuration as code with configuration as code from a common cybersecurity stack leveraging a combination of open source and commercial capabilities. Funding of this proposal will reduce the barrier to entry of weapon systems across the DoD, and finally actualize the benefits of DevSecOps and continuous delivery. |
| FA8649-23-P-0761 | Lula | $74,775 | [ DEFENSE UNICORNS, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/18/2023 | 08/18/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Department of the Air Force relies on secure software delivery in order to deliver nearly all of its C2, air, space, and cyber capabilities today. Systems must receive an ATO in order to touch operational data. Defense Unicorns believes its open sour |
| FA8649-23-P-1026 | OPTIMIZED FUEL-THROUGH AUTOMATED PLANNING (OF-TAP) | $1,198,004 | DEGATECH SYSTEMS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/19/2023 | 04/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To meet the DAF’s mission of creating an energy optimized air force that maximizes combat capability for the warfighter; Airmen are increasingly asked to shoulder the burden of admin compliance when fueling aircraft. FuelerLinx’s Optimized Fuel-Through Au |
| FA8649-23-P-0063 | Automated Rivet Intelligent Extraction System (ARIES) | $1,249,232 | DELTA SIGMA, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 12/07/2022 | 06/10/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | THE PROBLEM: Unavailability of Aircraft to the Warfighter / High Maintenance Costs to the Taxpayer The 402 Commodities Maintenance Group (CMXG) at Warner Robins Air Logistic Complex provides program depot maintenance for the C-5, C-17, C-130, F-15, and Global Hawk programs which has a total fleet of over 4,000 aircraft. Among the many tasks required to provide this maintenance, an inspection of the interior cavity of the flight controls is essential. There are several flight controls on each aircraft, which include flaps, ailerons, elevators, and rudder. Today, each flight control for each aircraft is treated in a “silo” using large “monument tooling” that is unique to one single part. THE SOLUTION: Automate the Process with Sensors, Robots, and Artificial Intelligence to provide an As-Built Digital Twin Although they are very different in size/shape/details, the process for removing the flight control skins is very similar across aircraft and flight controls – center drill the rivet and break it off. Delta Sigma Company (DSC) will develop an automated system to accomplish this work quickly with minimal human involvement. DSC has personnel experienced in all the fields required to achieve this development and the facilities with all needed support equipment to complete the task. DSC proposes the development of an Automated Rivet Intelligent Extraction System (ARIES), which will remove thousands of rivets from flight controls with very minimal human interaction. The key ARIES developments that must all work to accomplish this goal include: Flexible tooling that can safely hold a range of different parts A sensor that can find and identify rivets and determine the position and size accurately It must not drill screws or open holes, so reliably detecting the difference with 100% accuracy is critical A sensor that can accurately measure the surface normal of the fastener A system that can take the input data from the sensor suite and drill the rivet without damaging the surrounding structure A system to break the rivet after drilling to release the skin The system should accomplish these tasks as fast or faster than a human does today and with higher accuracy. Such a system could run unattended and thus provide up to 24/7 operations with minimal stress on personnel. |
| FA8649-23-P-0233 | Researching ExoBoot Adaptations for Air Force Wildland Firefighters | $74,993 | DEPHY INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force has a vital and urgent need to provide overmatched capabilities for mobility to meet real-time requirements and match mounting threats from near-peer adversaries like China and Russia. Powered exoskeletons for the lower limb are being explored for mobility augmentation, and the Dephy ExoBoot platform enhances the ability for Airmen that need to walk long distances or with heavy loads with less metabolic expenditure such as Wildland Firefighters walking long distance over rough terrain while carrying equipment, to fight fires. |
| FA8649-23-P-0934 | Reducing Joint Loading for Airmen Using a Dephy ExoSkeleton | $74,995 | DEPHY INC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force has a vital and urgent need to provide overmatched capabilities for mobility to meet real-time requirements and match mounting threats from near-peer adversaries like China and Russia. Powered exoskeletons for the lower limb are being explor |
| N68335-23-C-0644 | A Low SWAPC Long-Range Acoustic Communication System Including Novel LPI Waveforms and Optimized Transducers | $139,351 | DELRESEARCH LLC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-036 | 08/29/2023 | 02/26/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | This proposal is presented by the team of delResearch, Image Acoustics, and Falmouth Scientific, and investigates transducers and wavaforms required for reliable long-range acoustic communication. Phase 1 will leverage delResearch experience and tools from PopotoModem ACOMMS product to investigate known and new waveforms at various data rates and probabilities of detection and interception. Phase 1 will rely on extensive simulations of long range channels of varying CTD profiles. Image Acoustics will simulate various low frequency, wide bandwidth transducers optimized for long range communications. The response of these transducers will be integrated into an end-to-end simulation. The result of this work will be a down selected list of transducer and waveforms for prototyping in a Phase 1 Option and implemented and tested in real time in a Phase II SBIR. |
| FA8649-23-P-1122 | ExoBoot Adaptations for Air Force Wildland Firefighters | $1,249,699 | DEPHY INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 08/04/2023 | 02/04/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force Fire Protection community has a national defense-related mission need in the prevention of musculoskeletal injuries experienced by Airmen working in fire and emergency services. Specifically, injuries and fatigue experienced by Air Force Fir |
| M67854-23-C-6505 | Shipboard Dimensional Analysis Tool (SDAT) | $1,499,524 | [ DESIGN MILL, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | N172-101 | 07/31/2023 | 07/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Shipboard Dimensional Analysis Tool (SDAT) was developed to enable transportability assessments of candidate vehicle designs aboard Naval ships prior to prototyping. SDAT integrates three-dimensional (3D) ship and vehicle data, enables users to place and visualize vehicles and their path within ship vehicle stowage spaces and on ramps, enables collision detection based on a user-defined clearance, assessing physical fit and loading paths, take measurements, and visualize emplacement of vehicle restraints in a 3D virtual environment. The Design Mill Team will continue to develop SDAT to accurately render surfaces in sufficient detail and expand capabilities to visualize full 360-degree panoramic images and high-resolution imagery. Additionally, the team will enhance the analytic toolsets to enable analysis and valid conclusions by Program Office and Test organizations regarding transportability. Given a significant volume of 3D data and varied sources, integration of the data is a unique challenge, the team will overcome this by building a cloud-enabled utility that can stream high density point cloud data and imagery for interaction in real-time. Design Mill will enhance the features and capabilities of SDAT with the development of an Instructional Module, enabling the use of SDAT within a classroom environment and providing capability to insert Instructors into a 3D digital twin of ship stowage spaces for site familiarization and load planning utilizing a combination of augmented and virtual reality technologies. Finally, and importantly, commercialization focus will be on bringing capabilities for enhanced cloud visualization coupled with SDAT’s encroachment collision analysis to warehousing and industrial markets, and on aviation and maritime cargo shipping to optimize load planning and stowage. |
| FA8649-23-P-0237 | Hybrid Propulsion System for the M-PAV | $74,995 | DESIGN ANALYSIS & RESEARCH CORP | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/15/2022 | 02/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | DARcorporation proposes to expand the design of the Multi-Purpose Aerial Vehicle (M-PAV) by exploring the feasibility of hybrid-electric propulsion. The M-PAV preliminary design and proof of concept flight testing of a SubScale Demonstrator (SSD) vehicle was completed as a part of the AF Explore 1.0 project sponsored by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Transformational Capabilities Office (TCO), in coordination with the Air Force Warfighting Integration Capability (AFWIC). The M-PAV design is intended as an attritable UAV capable of short take-off and landing (STOL) and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) operations in austere or degraded environments near the front lines. The M-PAV is designed to be a family of aircraft scaled to meet different missions including ISR, resupply, weapons loft (a mission conceptualized by the TCO as the emplacement of munitions on an airborne platform, in- or near-theater, for agile combat employment). Phase I activities will be aimed at defining, developing and designing a hybrid electric propulsion system as an option for the smaller scale M-PAV aircraft. Phase II will focus on further design, analysis and testing of the hybrid electric propulsion system as an element of the overall M-PAV aircraft design. |
| H9240523P0002 | Topological Anomaly Detection | $149,806 | [ DETECTIT, LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | SOCOM224-007 | 02/28/2023 | 09/08/2023 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | This proposal describes a system for detecting anomalies in financial data using topological methods. It enables the efficient triage of such data, alerting a human intelligence analyst when an anomalous Persona is detected so they can be investigated further. The system models this problem as a directed multi/graph, where each node is a Persona and each edge is a Transaction directed from sender to receiver. The probability that any Persona is a bad/actor is determined by computing the persistence homology of the subgraph for which the Persona is a sink, then passing the resulting barcode to an ensemble of binary classifiers. When this probability is greater than a configured threshold, an alert is dispatched indicating that the Persona has an anomalous transaction history. This approach allows for the efficient classification of Personas using information in the transaction graph at any degree of separation. |
| FA8750-23-C-1016 | AI/ML and Advanced 3-D/Augmented Reality (AR) for Space SA Modeling | $149,574 | DEVILLIERS TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS LLC | STTR | Phase I | SF22D-T002 | 04/06/2023 | 01/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Space Situational Awareness (SSA) is knowledge of all aspects of space related to operations. As the foundation for space control, SSA encompasses intelligence on adversary space operations; surveillance of all space objects and activities; detailed recon |
| FA8649-23-P-0051 | Surface Ablation System | $1,249,563 | DIGIBEAM CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 10/21/2022 | 07/22/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Digibeam is presenting a cost-effective technical solution to full-scale space debris remediation. In 2010, the DoD was assigned to pursue research and development of technologies and techniques to “mitigate and remove on-orbit debris as a necessary long-term approach to ensure the safety of flight operations in LEO orbital regimes. However, no program exists with a technically feasible Active Debris Removal (ADR) solution to address the full span of objects at an economically affordable, safe, environmentally friendly, and politically acceptable solution. ADR requirements must focus on removal of small size, but potential damaging fragments, as well as the removal of at least 5 of the highest risk objects (defined as mass times probability of collision) per year to stabilize the long-term LEO debris environment. Digibeam is presenting the development of a low-power, space-based particle beam projector system with the ability to detect, track, target, and remove smaller, high-velocity debris at extended standoff range, while delivering successive de-orbiting force to larger objects. Our approach is a small particle beam technology that can be packaged on a small to medium satellite payload. This Space Ablation System (SAS) concept was “derived from, extends, and concludes from USSF’s SBIR FX203-CS02-1467, outlining the application and performance feasibility for Digibeam’s commercial beam technology for space applications. The objective of this program is to execute models, simulation, and analysis verified by reduced scale experimental testing on an existing Proof-of-Concept (POC) system to confirm performance metrics leading to system development and commercialization. The proposed phase II adaptation explores testing a wide range of operational parameters outside the commercial solution to obtain experimental T&E (strictly for use in military systems). Our innovation is a scaled-up solution derived from a commercial system that originated the higher throughput performance. Customers for SAS include USSF, DAF and NASA. |
| FA8649-23-P-0597 | Extended Range Space Lethality | $74,951 | DIGIBEAM CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/28/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Digibeam is presenting a new type of directed energy system for high power, small SWAP, particle beams to produce precision disruption, damage, or destruction of military targets at range. This is a scaled up and modified version of our prior commercial p |
| FA9453-23-P-A056 | O-DOLS: On Demand Optically Levitated Sensors | $149,994 | [ DIGITAL OPTICS TECHNOLOGIES INC] | STTR | Phase I | AF22D-T006 | 05/05/2023 | 02/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The goal this project is to investigate the feasibility for optical trapping of nanoparticles directly in the micro-Torr vacuum regime. This work will pave the way for developing fieldable devices based on such trapped nanoparticles that can be re-loaded |
| SP4701-23-P-0076 | Precision Inventory for Distribution Center (PIDC) Using Battery-Free RFID Systems | $100,000 | DIRAC SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | DLA232-005 | 09/18/2023 | 03/18/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | To address the DLA need for an automated inventory system that integrates with DLA databases such as warehouse management system (WMS), and the warehouse execution system (WES), Dirac Solutions, Inc. proposes to develop a new Precision Inventory for Distribution Centers (PIDC). DSI’s proposed feasibility study for Precision Inventory for Distribution Centers (PIDC) leverages the experience gained from the past automated inventory deployments using novel passive RFID systems and offers new innovations such as small and light weight RFID reader and antennas integrated with mobile platforms such as drones and robots. In Phase I, DSI will investigate the capability gaps, requirements, functional specifications, user interface/database, and will develop a feasibility study for a reliable automated inventory system based on passive (battery-free) RFID systems that address DLA distribution centers (DCs) inventory management requirements in real time. In Phase II, DSI plans to develop functional prototypes of an automated inventory system, integrate with DLA databases such as warehouse management system (WMS), and the warehouse execution system (WES). |
| FA8750-23-C-0508 | USAF AI-Based Scheduling - STTR Phase II | $998,859 | DISASTER TECHNOLOGIES INC | STTR | Phase II | AF21B-T001 | 02/22/2023 | 05/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This project aims to develop a decision support system for the strategic-level planning of humanitarian operations. The proposed decision support system will deploy an optimization model and an artificial intelligence (AI)-based solution approach to deter |
| FA8649-23-P-1209 | Low-SWaP-C Radiofrequency Situational Awareness Sensor for Forward-Deployed Airmen | $1,248,037 | [ DISTRIBUTED SPECTRUM INC.] | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 09/25/2023 | 03/10/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The end goal of the proposed work is to develop a prototype radio frequency (RF) situational awareness (SA) system. The proposed system can continuously measure the RF environment around an Air Force Special Warfare Airman or team. This information will h |
| FA8649-23-P-0387 | Flexible and Interoperable RF Signature Management System | $74,938 | [ DISTRIBUTED SPECTRUM INC.] | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Distributed Spectrum proposes a modular, interoperable, and low SWaP-C system to provide real-time information about the visibility of Air Force (AF) operators in the RF spectrum. Distributed Spectrum’s RF spectrum monitoring system has been proven commercially and its modular and interoperable nature will allow it to be easily adapted to fit critical AF needs. In this Phase I effort, Distributed Spectrum, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and subcontractors will conduct interviews to narrow down the exact specifications of the needed system, evaluate its technical feasibility, and develop a specific development plan for a follow-up Phase II. |
| FA9451-23-P-A007 | L-band and S-band Helicone Antennas | $149,637 | DIVERSIFIED TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0006 | 12/30/2022 | 09/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Diversified Technologies, Inc., (DTI) proposes to build, test, and deliver two ruggedized portable antenna systems (one L-band and one S-band), capable of reliably handling 1 GW pulses with a FWHM of 10 ns which can be mounted on a military truck. The L-band antenna will radiate with gain greater than 21 dBi at 1.1 GHz, and the S-band antenna will radiate with gain greater than 27 dBi at 2.8 GHz. In this effort, DTI will use an array of antennas to transmit the peak power. This is intended to work with multiple phased microwave sources thus reducing the electric field on the coax entry to each antenna. The sources will be phased so the antennas operate as single large aperture with large aperture area which will fit in 1.5 cubic meter volume with a 1GW capability. DTI has also demonstrated an HPM feedthrough that can withstand 14 MV/m at 520 kV, which will be utilized for the antenna feedthrough. Furthermore, this approach can be easily adapted and scaled in power, gain and frequency for different numbers of sources simply by adding or removing antennas to the array as necessary. In Phase I, DTI will model, analyze, and optimize the L- and S-band antenna arrays. This will lay the groundwork for a complete design and prototype construction in Phase II. This design will be optimized further to meet MIL-STD-810g shock and vibration and enable DTI to address any real-world manufacturing issues early in the design. The antennas will be characterized experimentally using AFRL-supplied HPM sources, including frequency-dependent gain, antenna pattern, and polarization. DTI will identify supply chains for critical materials and processes with the aim of using COTS materials and common manufacturing processes to the greatest extent practical. |
| N68335-23-C-0489 | HPM Broadband Tapered Transmitter Line Solid State Amplifier | $139,938 | DIVERSIFIED TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-062 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Electronic Warfare (EW) is a critical component in conflicts around the globe. High Power Microwave applications need greater power and efficiency and wider bandwidth. Solid state technology is very capable and increased power by combining many devices improves overall performance. Diversified Technologies, Inc. (DTI) proposes to develop a wideband solid state power amplifier combining topology which has high efficiency and is compact. DTI will utilize an innovative general approach (wideband impedance transformation) with improved materials to combine the output power from a number of commercially available, low power transistors (hundreds of watts to a few kilowatts) into a single multi-kilowatt wideband output, with the technique applicable to a wide range of frequencies from L-band to X-band and beyond. In Phase I Base, DTI will design, fabricate full-scale hardware, and test the key components. The results will demonstrate the feasibility of the high power amplifier topology. In the Option, a brassboard device will be designed, fabricated, and tested with active RF transistors across several frequency bands. This will demonstrate feasibility of the wideband high power topology. Phase II will refine and improve the device performance and increase the frequency range at greater power. DTI already possesses the required administrative capabilities. |
| FA9451-23-P-A001 | X- and Ku-band Ultra-Wideband Antennas | $149,884 | DIVERSIFIED TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0007 | 12/28/2022 | 09/28/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Electronic warfare will be a key component in future conflicts as the modern battlefield is highly reliant on electronics such as complex communications, sensing, and control of drones and autonomous vehicles. High Power Microwave (HPM) weapons provide a long-range, non-lethal method of neutralizing enemy electronic systems that use that common radar and military communication frequencies. These HPM transmitters include an HPM source, pulsed power equipment, and, crucially, an antenna to transfer the energy into a free-space wave and deliver it to the target. DTI proposes to develop two distinct, but synergistic antennas in this effort: one antenna will be a conformal phase array with a gain of 40 dBi, rated at 1 GW, and phase steerable in both azimuth and elevation greater than +20 degrees; a second larger single antenna will be developed and will have a wide bandwidth (8 to 18 GHz) and high gain of 40 dBi installed on a two-axis mount capable of sweeping -15° through 90° elevation and a full 360° in azimuth with appropriate drive motors. Our approach reduces RF power density to below the breakdown strength of ambient air and avoids the losses and dispersion of waveguides operating over multi-octaves. These incorporated features ensure that the antennas will operate at gigawatt power levels without electrical breakdown, and provide the necessary gain over a wide bandwidth to produce a highly focused beam that optimally delivers energy to the target. In Phase I, DTI will develop the designs for a phased array and reflector integrated antenna and fabricate proof of concept prototypes. This will enable a detailed evaluation of the mechanical designs, and basic real-world investigation of the RF performance of the array. |
| N68335-23-C-0268 | Launch, Recovery and Handling of Group 3 through Group 5 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Aboard Navy's Expeditionary Sea Base | $599,752 | DIVERSIFIED TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N211-029 | 05/05/2023 | 05/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Operation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from large ships represents a disruptive technology for the Navy as it expands UAV capabilities and sortie rates, including swarm launch and recovery. Recently, the Navy has developed new technical paradigms to solve the many challenges associated with UAV operations from ships other than aircraft carriers, including launch and recovery of Group 3 through 5 UAVs subject to strong winds and high sea-states. Large fixed wing UAVs operating from ships offer tremendous potential to the Navy to provide Intelligence/Surveillance/Reconnaissance (ISR), increased lethality, ship self-defense, and ‘loyal wingman’ support for manned aircraft. Diversified Technologies Inc. (DTI) proposes to develop a launch and recovery system for Group to Group 5 UAVs. This system consists of a stowable sponson assembly mounted outside the hull of large ships such as ESB-class vessels. The sponsons consists of rigid lattice frames of stowable outriggers bearing support cables that, in turn, support and guide a carriage to launch or recover the UAV with or without landing gear. The sponsons can be folded upward, downward, or forward for storage. The carriage is controlled by a drive cable that connects to motors that both accelerate and decelerate the system. The motors are located below deck and operated by closed-loop controls. The power system supplies or absorbs the required aircraft energy for launch and recovery, respectively. The system is bidirectional and can launch and recover UAVs approaching from either the bow or the stern of the ship. An articulating arm rapidly loads and unloads the UAVs. The DTI launch and recovery system requires minimal modifications to the UAVs. Many system components are available commercially-off-the-shelf reducing costs and easing supply chain worries. The entire system can also be built as a compact and portable ground-based system. Minimal site preparation is needed, all that is needed is a reasonably flat site. The sponson / outriggers would be replaced by a support frame at each end secured on temporary foundations by ground anchors. The machinery would be located on a skid that can either be truck / trailer mounted or ground anchored on a temporary foundation. The cable based system does not need precise alignment of the mechanical components further simplifying the installation. The work plan summary is: Base period is a system design and critical components testing effort; Option 1 is a scaled launcher system fabrication and testing effort; and Option 2 is a scaled recovery system fabrication and testing effort. Near the end of the effort, we anticipate using Group 3 UAVs to validate the system. |
| FA8649-23-P-0252 | DevSecOps Enablement via High Assurance seL4 Microkernel | $74,938 | DORNERWORKS, LTD. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Containers have exploded in popularity due to their portability, modularity, and small overhead compared to virtual machines (VMs). This adoption has fueled design of DevSecOps pipelines in industry that enable a more rapid development cycle of systems with security baked in. These same development practices can be applied to many commercial embedded devices, but there exists a wide range of applications for which container-based workloads are not an ideal match due to security, real-time, I/O, and many other requirements. Using a high assurance type 1 hypervisor such as the formally proven seL4 hosting virtual machines can provide security and isolation assurances baked in from the start, and using containers within these virtual machines can provide significant development flexibility while also taking advantage of the greater isolation benefits of virtual machines. The DornerWorks VMComposer tool helps developers, design, configure, and deploy virtual machine-based systems. The proposed work seeks to extend this support to include containers in order to allow DevSecOps workloads to be quickly deployed to embedded devices and allow the user to make intelligent trade-offs between running an individual application in a container or a virtual machine on the embedded target. DornerWorks also intends to explore unikernels as a potential middleground between virtual machines and containers, since they can be used to create light weight VM packages comparable to containers supporting micro-services while increasing performance and security by removing the need for a GPOS. |
| FA8649-23-P-0312 | Protecting DAF Industrial Systems from Cyber Attacks | $74,977 | DOVER MICROSYSTEMS INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/07/2022 | 02/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | CoreGuard from Dover Microsystems blocks the exploitation of mistakes (aka “bugs”) in software. CoreGuard micropolicies precisely define the allowed and disallowed behavior of a system in terms of metadata. Metadata is maintained for every word in a system and can encode a wide range of security- related attributes, such as “is this value confidential?”, “where did this value come from?”, “is this value a pointer to memory, and if so, where is it allowed to read or write?”, “is this value an executable instruction?”, etc. With this general approach, CoreGuard blocks 94% of severe CVEs (vulnerabilities) as identified by MITRE (https://cve.mitre.org/), more than any other security approach. As we know, and despite our best attempts, no significant software system, either in the Air Force or in the commercial world, is free of errors. While we strongly endorse every attempt to rule out errors in software before deployment, we also believe that we must continue to closely monitor systems for misbehavior even after deployment, to prevent malicious, and potentially deadly, exploitation of software bugs. CoreGuard monitors all software running on a system at a very fine grain – checking each instruction and each access to memory. This allows CoreGuard to detect, block, and respond to attacks immediately, before any damage is done. Until now, CoreGuard has been targeted at embedded devices, which are relatively small, simple computing devices running a bare bones software stack. After numerous discussions with potential Air Force customers, it is clear to Dover that many security-critical DAF systems rely on more complex hardware and on general purpose operating systems such as Linux. For example, any cloud-based computing resources are likely running Linux, as well as command and control systems, many network infrastructure nodes and mobile computing devices. It arguably more important for CoreGuard to be integrated into larger, Linux-class systems, because there is typically a much larger, and less trusted, stack of software running on these large systems than on typical embedded systems. |
| FA8649-23-P-0110 | Compact Hybrid Powerplant for Deployable UAS | $74,981 | DRAGOON TECHNOLOGY LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Dragoon Technology proposes to develop a power-dense hybrid powerplant meeting the requirements of small deployable Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), providing greater endurance and range than that provided by battery power. Dragoon’s existing hybrid powertrain meets the needs of small, long endurance UAS, and will be adapted to the higher power and more compact form factor requirements of deployed UAS. Several technical improvements are presented and will be investigated in the Phase I for inclusion on a notional powertrain to be developed in Phase II. |
| HR001123C0107 | High Endurance Attritable Hybrid Electric Drone | $1,499,263 | DRAGOON TECHNOLOGY LLC | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-23 | 04/12/2023 | 04/12/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Dragoon’s successful Phase I effort resulted in a preliminary design for an Inexpensive Long Endurance Drone (ILED). The current approach to designing and manufacturing unmanned systems has resulted in exquisite assets which are aren’t economically viable when considering mission sets where attrition is guaranteed. In order to manufacture a highly capable platform at a low cost, a novel approach is required. The preliminary design is based on Dragoon’s unique hybrid electric system architecture, which allows the system to utilize energy dense batteries for high power phases of flight and an internal combustion engine for cruise, increasing platform capability significantly. Traditionally, UAS platform cost is largely driven by a small number of expensive “black box” subcomponents. Dragoon’s approach to vertically integrating all of these components into a tightly coupled system architecture results in very low total system cost. In addition, manufacturing processes to bridge the gap between prototype and high-rate production are being implemented at the earliest stage possible. The proposed Phase II base effort will involve the detailed design of the ILED concept, manufacturing prototypes, and demonstrating the prototype ILED aircraft in a full system test. The addition of the Phase II option will enable refinement of the design and construction of additional prototypes, along with a second demonstration of the aircraft. |
| FA8649-23-P-1013 | Wearable RF Drone Detection | $1,127,620 | DRONE GO HOME, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/06/2023 | 06/06/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed technology provides airspace awareness for small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (sUAS) that adversaries use to identify troop locations, drop munitions, or target artillery. AeroDefense proposes to miniaturize existing man-portable sUAS detect |
| FA4484-23-P-0041 | small Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) Global Persistent Awareness | $1,795,000 | DRONE GO HOME, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF193-DCSO1 | 09/13/2023 | 09/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Currently AirWarden mobile sensors, the result of the D2P2 project, function as a network exclusively for the entity that owns them with some limited data sharing options. The effort of this project will help accelerate the delivery of a Collaborative Dro |
| FA8649-23-P-0809 | Healthcare Provider Schedule Tracking & AI Optimization | $69,751 | DUALITY SYSTEMS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The challenge with dominant healthcare provider scheduling systems, both inside and outside of the DoD, is that they are rarely automated or intelligent, are highly user intensive, and do not maximize the efficiencies that can be gained by modern algorith |
| FA8649-23-P-0600 | FDA-authorized, point-of care diagnostic platform for rapid and sensitive detection of harmful pathogens. | $74,399 | [ DXLAB INC] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The US armed services continue to face a serious threat to their health and mission success due to infectious diseases and pathogens, which are the major cause of lost duty days and hospitalization of US military personnel. A rapid and accurate point-of-c |
| 140D0423C0072 | Team Assistance Research Platform for Search+ Tasks | $1,763,359 | DYNAMIC OBJECT LANGUAGE LABS INC. | STTR | Phase II | ST14B-003 | 08/31/2023 | 08/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The new Phase 2 effort will focus on the role of stories to dramatically support and enhance social interactions, teaming, and dynamic situations in operationally relevant use cases. We draw from story representation and understanding technology from both CART II, and the ASIST RITA projects. CART II focused on the ability of stories to capture situational awareness, task monitoring and planning, while RITA uses stories to capture goals, motivations and participant mind states. The focus of the current effort will be on developing more generalizable agent capabilities to deal with greater complexity and better support teamwork in operational settings. The effort will integrate agent technology across multiple synthetic environments, including the Minecraft testbed and the Unreal Engine, which offers significant scaling up of the complexity while staying within a research setting. Unreal Engine has long been used as a proxy for real-world interactions precisely because it offers greater visual realism, and provides a low cost way to test robotic and agent capabilities that can readily be transferred to real-world applications. This effort will build a message bus interface to Unreal Engine based on existing Unreal Engine research worlds identified within DoD research labs. This will allow technologies developed within the Minecraft world to be generalized to more complex renderings in the Unreal Engine testbed. In this way, more of the capabilities from the CART II level of understanding of what is happening in the simulated world and the team understanding developed in the DARPA ASIST program can be combined and transitioned into a DoD research lab. This effort will leverage technology and testbed from the ASIST program, focusing on assistive agents and coaching human teams to improve teamwork and performance outcomes. In place of a physical robot dealing with real-world vision to track what is going on, the effort will focus on a virtual assistant agent that observes the simulated world using messages on a communication message bus. In place of repair tasks, problems will focus on search and rescue operations, general search problems, and new tasks relevant to transition partners. Synthetic testbeds with different task designs will allow for the experimental development and testing of agents capable of supporting and enhancing human teams. The testbeds produced will allow for the testing of team building and enhancing strategies, as well as the development and testing of agents capable of executing such strategies. Agent capabilities will focus on social interactions and agent coaching of team processes to improve performance outcomes, concentrating on the planning phase of the task. This effort will enhance capabilities around a cognitive artifact that can be used for team planning to support team coordination, enable machine observation, and enable intervention during team planning, coordination, and prioritization activities. |
| 140D0423C0108 | Lightweight Interaction and Storytelling Archive (LISA) | $1,803,073 | DYNAMIC OBJECT LANGUAGE LABS INC. | SBIR | Phase II | SB172-009 | 09/22/2023 | 07/24/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The Phase 1 project developed a new method for real-time robotic motion planning. The Phase 1 system can prevent task-performing (semi)-autonomous agents from colliding with objects in their environment (e.g., navigating a quadcopter while it inspects an object and advises a human in a repair operation). The new Phase 2 effort will build upon these initial results by extending the developed capabilities to a knowledge management tool capable of ingesting, capturing, and disseminating knowledge. This knowledge management tool will be capable of ingesting multimodal data (building on the sensor work from Phase 1) and provide valuable information when a user is performing a task (e.g., collect/disseminate information from/to a user performing a repair task). This tool will be tested in new domains (e.g., Civilian Aviation). It should provide stakeholders evidence that the techniques can be adapted to their task domain(s), e.g., by using relevant metrics with domain-specific targets similar to those developed in Phase I. Furthermore, the tool can modify its output based on domain-specific knowledge, such as changes to task goals (e.g., the pilot must circle the airport rather than land the plane) or the environment (e.g., landing in a snowstorm). We propose to build LISA: the Lightweight Interaction and Storytelling Archive, which engages users in dialog and storytelling to provide just-in-time, just-enough, and just-for-me information. We will demonstrate LISA in the domain of commercial aviation, where operators function in complex and stressful contexts. LISA builds a broad base of knowledge, enables users to add their own expertise, and then disseminates that knowledge as needed. LISA is enabled by a novel lightweight grounded knowledge representation, the LKG. This representation marries interpretable component nodes with groundings (linguistic, visual, and sensory embeddings associated with nodes) to provide context and a fluent editing experience. The representation is acquired automatically by combining and extending modern large-scale language models, the Genesis story understanding technology, and the START natural language understanding system. Our approach supports rich storytelling by integrating classifying triggers into the knowledge graph. Triggers support storytelling by sequencing events and allow LISA to track the stream of ongoing events, comparing them in real time to previously ingested stories and step-in, unprompted, at critical times, depending on its model of the user's abilities. No prior work treats stories as first-class objects while providing a grounded representation that is automatically acquired, is editable by users in their normal workflow, and supports natural communication through multi-modal storytelling. |
| FA8649-23-P-0240 | Adaptation of Dynepic's DX Platform for XR Digital Asset Certification, Tracking, and Remix Capability in the USAF | $74,995 | DYNEPIC, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Vendors (large and small) are being contracted to develop novel training applications leveraging the latest technologies. Because of the current siloed nature of acquisitions and program management many departments across the USAF are paying for models and training applications that have already been developed by other departments. Compounding this issue, there are serious limitations with confirming assets/models are accurate, up-to-date, and certified. The USAF, and the DoD writ large, need a common standard for authoritative source of truth for engineered data models to maintain a digital thread wherein all training applications are leveraging the most current, up-to-date, and certified models. There is an opportunity to develop digital asset certification, tracking, and remix capabilities wherein a DoD-approved user could store an authoritative model or simulation, assert permissions on who is allowed to discover, use, and modify, and then track all the uses and approved remixes of the original authoritative source – all within a one-stop shop for discovery and distribution of training applications. |
| FA2384-23-P-0013 | MOTAR-in-a-Box at the Edge | $149,890 | DYNEPIC, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0015 | 07/13/2023 | 04/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has initiated Just-in-time, Multi-Mission Airmen/Warfighters (JIT MMA/W) to support deployed personnel as they become multi-capable airmen while performing tasks outside of their traditional AFSCs. JIT MMA/W is enablin |
| FA8684-23-C-B026 | MOTAR STRATFI | $3,359,921 | DYNEPIC, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | J201-CSO1 | 09/21/2023 | 09/22/2027 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Dynepic’s STRATFI solution continues the efforts of the completed Phase II SBIR to continue, extend, scale and enhance the features and capabilities of MOTAR. STRATFI funding provides the remaining core capabilities to make MOTAR a viable and sustainable XR ecosystem. MOTAR provides a secure digital infrastructure to save time and money to deliver a platform with the critical capabilities required to support the newest technologies as they come online. MOTAR will provide the training ecosystem that will encompass all aspects of training across a variety of career fields and multiple classification levels, with capability provided through cloud-based, hybrid, and on-premise (i.e. MOTAR-In-A-Box (MIAB)) configurations of MOTAR. Technologies and methodologies employed under the MOTAR project directly impact mission need and implement several key concepts and directives of current Air Force acquisition and engineering guidance. MOTAR offers the ecosystem and organizations to enable and facilitate training programs of any size while leveraging the entire industrial technology sector to develop and deploy XR and legacy training on the platform where it can be managed, analyzed, and improved over time. Training can also be published by subject matter expert Airmen in courses that utilize their expertise and tool suites offered by industry. |
| FA8649-23-P-1120 | Adaptation of Dynepic's DX Platform for Digital Asset Certification, Tracking, And Remix Capability in the USAF | $1,249,786 | DYNEPIC, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 10/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Vendors (large and small) are being contracted to develop novel training applications leveraging the latest technologies. Because of the current siloed nature of acquisitions and program management many departments across the USAF are paying for models an |
| FA8649-23-P-0664 | Adaptation of Dynepic’s MOTAR Platform to Enable Robust Human Performance Analyses of Sensor Data | $74,983 | DYNEPIC, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/28/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The DoD is deeply investing in the development of more sophisticated sensor technologies and human performance analysis tools. Unfortunately, most of the relevant sensor data and associated toolsets (e.g., applications, AI engines, classifiers, etc.) are |
| M67854-23-C-6530 | Adaptive Expeditionary Micro-hydro Power System (AEMPS) | $999,938 | DYNOVAS INC | SBIR | Phase II | N212-102 | 08/29/2023 | 09/29/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | In Phase I, Dynovas physically demonstrated an Adaptive Expeditionary Micro-hydro Power System (AEMPS) capable of producing 500W – 1500 W power across environments possessing a baseline 1 m/s water velocity at 0.8m depth, and the intervention free adaptability to produce optimized continuous power output over a range of water velocities from 0.5 – 2.5 m/s with minimum depths of > 0.35m. AEMPS provides a method for energy harvesting from any direction with limited to no intervention operation across brackish, fresh, and salt water environments and enables in field repairability and expeditionary manufacturability through novel design of critical path components and use of line replaceable parts/units. The hydrokinetic system adapts to various water velocities, water depths, and debris risks to provide continuous operation and mitigates performance degradation or catastrophic failure risks (unsafe or excessive water velocities, debris fouling, object contact at depth etc.) through adjusting the hydrokinetic turbine’s level of insertion in conjunction with novel turbine architectures to enable intervention free debris shedding capabilities. AEMPS effectively provides a modular and scalable self-sustaining power generation platform to produce 24VDC output (MIL-STD-1275D) across interconnectable units to produce power in excess of 500–1500W. The expeditionary hydrokinetic power generation system developed is capable of transport, deployment, and retrieval by 1 or 2 persons in under 30 minutes across the array of deployment environments (rocky shores, sand, dense vegetation-lined shores, ledges, etc.). AEMPS packages a 534W+ continuous power generation system within a 1m3 system transport volume that is under 86lbs to enable transportability across lightweight and ultra-lightweight vehicles in four (4) quick deployable units. The units utilize a ruggedized pop-up framework structure and inflatable pontoon design to meet operation requirements across all Marine Corps operating environments (ref. MIL-STD-810). The structural platform houses a vertically translating and locking hydrokinetic turbine and closed-loop sensor array to avoid debris hazards and provide intervention free operation using a surface-piercing vertical crossflow turbine architecture to extract power from various littoral zones (river, stream, tidal). Units can be deployed in single format or multi-unit across an array of shoreline and littoral region bathymetries, and be transported via existing expeditionary vehicles including Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTVs), and Ultra-Light Tactical Vehicle (ULTVs). |
| M67854-23-C-6516 | Anti-Personnel Obstacle Breaching System with Rigidized Raceway (APOBS-R2) | $146,439 | DYNOVAS INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-001 | 06/14/2023 | 04/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Dynovas’ Variable-Angle and Optimal Deployment for Anti-Personnel Obstacle Breaching Systems (APOBS-R2) provides a new radical set of tactical capabilities designed to improve the Warfighter’s ability to deploy a line charge and create a footpath through anti-personnel obstacles by directing the soldier to the optimal deployment angle of the breaching system and ensuring the charges are deployed in a straight line. provides a radical new set of tactical capabilities engineered to augment the existing technology and enable an efficient, ergonomic, and repeatable linear deployment of line charges to create safe pathways through anti-personnel obstacles. Specifically, the proposed APOBS-R2 will provide two novel key innovations including (1) a go/no-go variable angle launch system to accommodate non-level surface deployment sites, and (2) a passively deployable and self-rigidizing guide structure to reliably enforce straight linear deployments of line charges. Collectively these innovations will provide the warfighter dependable and trustworthy obstacle clearing technology that will mitigate misfire, unsafe deployment scenarios, and improve safety of the Warfighter through targeting redesign and augmentation of the existing APOBS. Development of the APBOS-R2 technology will be executed by a team possessing heritage in high-performance deployable structures, advanced composites, aerospace technologies, and across all aspects of engineering related design, manufacturing, analysis, and testing. Dynovas aligned the APOBS-R2 development effort in collaboration with expressly interested Prime Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company (EBAD) to solidify a team that encompasses additional areas of expertise in explosive packaging, large scale manufacturing, as well as the development, testing, and integration of breaching systems. |
| W51701-23-C-0093 | Tailorable Continuous Composite Baseplate (TaCC) | $1,730,683 | DYNOVAS INC | SBIR | Phase II | A214-006 | 04/03/2023 | 04/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0291 | High Efficiency Lined Pressurized – Gas Storage (HELP-GAS) | $999,994 | DYNOVAS INC | SBIR | Phase II | N221-076 | 07/27/2023 | 07/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Dynovas’ High Efficiency Linerless Pressurized Gas Storage (HELP-GAS) system is specifically designed to deliver a gaseous hydrogen storage system for UASs that stores compressed hydrogen at greater than 7% weight efficiency for maximum expected operating pressures (MEOPs) between 350 bar and 700 bar. Additionally, the HELP-GAS system reduces the cost of hydrogen storage systems by reducing or eliminating the liner and allowing the use of standard or even low-cost carbon fibers not traditionally seen in Type I-IV pressure vessels due to the weight and performance constraints. Overall, Dynovas’ HELP-GAS technology achieves greater than 12 wt% of GH2 storage masses greater than 200g at a 25%+ reduction in overall cost for low quantity productions seen for UAS applications. The HELP-GAS system leverages four (4) technologies to achieve weight and packaging efficiencies: (1) Type IV pressure vessel configuration, (2) utilizing matrix additives to reduce microcracking and increase pressurization cycles capability, (3) utilization of the pressure vessel as part of the structure of the UA, and (4) utilization of non-traditional geometries to increase the spatial utilization of the integrated pressure vessel system. These four innovations, when combined, will allow spatial utilization and weight efficiencies greater than the Type IV pressure vessels currently being utilized in hydrogen fuel cell systems. When realized, Dynovas’ HELP-GAS system will provide the Navy with the capability to utilize hydrogen fuel cell powered propulsion in applications that were previously not possible. The Dynovas team has over 20 years of filament wound pressure vessel heritage developing novel pressurized storage and rocket motor case solutions. Based on Dynovas’ heritage in developing pressure vessels, the output of the Phase II base program will be a prototype design that has attained technology readiness level (TRL) 5 for the desired performance. The proposed Phase II option program will identify further weight savings opportunities for the HELP-GAS system and conclude validation testing on a prototype article bringing the HELP-GAS system to TRL 6. Results of the prototype testing along with further weight reduction efforts will ensure success when transitioning to Phase III. The Phase II base combined with the Phase II option will serve to ready the HELP-GAS system for ultimate attainment of TRL 7+ in Phase III and beyond. |
| W5170123C0041 | Modular Utility Structural Helo (MASH) Flooring System | $249,948 | DYNOVAS INC | SBIR | Phase I | A224-024 | 03/28/2023 | 09/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| HR001123C0049 | Inexpensive Long Endurance Drone | $1,499,939 | DZYNE TECHNOLOGIES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-23 | 02/03/2023 | 02/02/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Future warfare is heading in the direction of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms numbering into the thousands of units, which will enable them to act as a force multiplier and expand capability. It is cost prohibitive to employ today’s drones in a large quantity and single-use operations, and so a new generation of drones needs to be designed in a cost-focused approach that still meets required performance and mission objectives. Since the intent is not to recover a drone, there is a need to design and develop an expendable, low-cost, long-endurance, payload-carrying drone that is flexible enough to adapt to a variety of environments and operational scenarios. Additionally, the launch platform needs to be scalable for deploying large numbers of drones within a time span of minutes while requiring minimal operator input, setup, and physical footprint. DYZNE Technologies conducted a Phase I trade study that involved analyzing a large trade space of both vehicle design concepts and launcher systems that could meet or exceed desired capabilities of the ILED program. DZYNE used its extensive experience in UAS engineering and development to comprehensively evaluate the complex interplay of system capability, material cost, available battery technology, manufacturing techniques, operator skill, and overall system cost. The output of this trade study was the recommended approach of a simplified tube launch design, which DZYNE is uniquely suited to perform the detailed engineering and manufacturing based on its extensive experience in developing ground-based tube-launched systems. Lessons learned from prior programs will be applied to the design, program planning, cost and schedule. Being able to apply these lessons-learned up front will allow the company to identify and reduce risk to development and test. The ILED simplified tube-launched sUAS would be an extension of the knowledge and expertise honed over years of designing tube launched systems. The proposed design would allow the aerial vehicle to be both stored and pneumatically launched from an expendable cannister and contain a number of innovative features to maximize performance while keeping system costs low. The combined storage and launch canister characteristic length and diameter were selected to maximize vehicle performance versus cost, with the minimal number of simplified folding joints for the wing and tail surfaces. DYZNE plans to improve the system architecture in Phase ll to allow rapid deployment and integration with the warfighter. |
| FA8649-23-P-0195 | DataChat Analytics Platform to Enable Data Driven Decision Making | $74,940 | [ Datachat Inc] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/07/2022 | 02/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | DataChat is a cohesive, all-in-one analytics platform that makes a broad range of analytics tools, accessible to everyone – including non-programmers. Individuals can uncover sophisticated insights from their data to improve outcomes for their organization. Our Guided English Language makes point and click actions visible, accessible, and understandable in a workflow that is recorded for each result. The records enhance governance and trust as well as collaboration within and across teams. An Air Force SBIR/STTR Phase 1 award will enable DataChat to leverage customer discovery as well as de-identified data to assess the technology fit against critical AF customer needs including: usability, predictive and reactive reporting, collaboration across units, ability to leverage MICT and IGEM data, and overall accessibility. The AF customer discovery work will define the necessary adaptations to the commercial solution to meet specific needs, such as potential Natural Language Processing (e.g., sentiment analysis) to convert qualitative data to quantitative data for analysis. Discussions with AF acquisitions professionals will guide the work needed to enable deployment of DataChat across the Air Force, which will facilitate the collaboration requested by AF users. Relevant Tech Focus Areas include Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, and Technology Areas include Information Systems. |
| SP4701-23-P-0075 | DeVal LCS Response to DLA232-001 NSN 5210-01-519-1548 | $144,691 | DeVal Life Cycle Support, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | DLA232-001 | 09/18/2023 | 09/18/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | DeVal Life Cycle Support, LLC is proposing to improve product availability and increase competition through the development of a Source Approval Requests (SAR) for NSN 5210-01-519-1548 – Box, Adapter. DeVal Life Cycle Support, LLC will conduct relevant research and reverse engineering resulting in the development of the technical data package (TDP) as well as a SAR. The intent is that upon SAR approval by an ESA, DeVal Life Cycle Support, LLC will be responsive to future solicitations as well as participate in the development of additional SARs for technically related NSNs. The innovation research goals of this contract are for DeVal Life Cycle Support, LLC to qualify as an Approved Source for the selected NSNs. DeVal Life Cycle Support, LLC will request SAR approval from the ESA and will submit a Gantt chart detailing the steps and timing to complete a TDP, SAR, and begin Low Rate Initial Production. |
| FA8649-23-P-0162 | Developing a Rehydration System for Lyophilized Blood Products | $74,698 | [ DesiCorp, Inc.] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The goal of this research and development proposal is to determine the feasibility and necessary composition of a reliable, easy to use rehydration system for blood components including freeze-dried red blood cells, freeze-dried platelets, and freeze-dried plasma. Red blood cells are sensitive to rehydration-induced damage associated with hypo-osmolarity. To address this, DesiCorp proposes a burst-membrane rehydration bag with a transparent vapor barrier. The burst membrane mechanism allows for rapid reconstitution of the blood component, typically under 30 seconds, and the clear vapor barrier allows for easy assessment of the blood component before it is deployed. Unlike glass, this container would be pliable and resistant to damage, which is essential to the warfighter operating in austere conditions. Preliminary testing and feedback provided by the Air Force Special Operations Command have already provided insights into the form and function of this rehydration bag. The aims of this proposal are 1) to assess if that the vapor-barrier material complies with FDA hemocompatibility and leaching regulations, 2) to identify the key challenges of rehydrating blood in austere environments and engineer solutions to those challenges, and 3) to identify a clear civilian market for a rapid-rehydration package for pharmaceuticals. |
| W51701-23-C-0090 | Wearable Technology Ecosystem for Physiological Monitoring and Actionable Insights | $149,994 | Design Interactive, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | A224-025 | 04/03/2023 | 07/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8649-23-P-0226 | ClassroomXR | $74,986 | Design Interactive, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In the near future, Airmen are more likely to fight in highly-contested environments and the recent influx of inexperience maintenance personnel has the potential to affect the Air Force's ability to support mission requirements (Altman, 2022). To address lower experience among aircraft maintainers and develop Multi-Capable Airmen, a need exist to rapidly accelerate the proficiency level of Airmen. Design Interactive, Inc. (DI) has created XRMentor™, an instructor led training and self-guided procedure platform enhanced by augmented reality (AR). XRMentor™’s instructor led training feature ClassroomXR™ enables instructors to live stream (synchronous training) hands-on training to thousands of remote trainees simultaneously. Also, instructors can provide a first-person view using the Microsoft HoloLens and switch seamlessly to an external web camera for third person views as well as share their computer screen. Further, the training sessions are recorded and can distributed to the entire remote workforce through DI’s XRMentor™ mobile app and website for review. Lastly, instructors can create how-to guides for remote maintainers to follow when executing work and include animated augmented reality models, pdf documents, photos and clips of the instructor led training video. This collaborative training experience eliminates travel, dramatically increases the efficiency of training deliver and improves knowledge retention while making content available on demand, anywhere, at anytime., in a rapid, contextualized, and meaningful way to increase the knowledge of Airmen. |
| W911QX-23-P-0024 | BEAT-2A | $111,500 | Design Interactive, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | A22-005 | 12/19/2022 | 06/18/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | On today’s technological battlefield, Soldiers are pushed to accomplish cognitively demanding tasks while experiencing stress, sleep deprivation, and varying emotional states. There exists great potential for the Army to embrace human-AI collaboration and implement adaptive automation in cognitively demanding tasks. Adaptive automation aims to provide assistive aids to humans precisely when needed, but this requires a roust and reliable method of triggering. Physiological sensors provide continuous, objective data which can be used as a triggering source for automated aids; however, research is needed to determine which physiological measures can be sensed, processed, and used as triggers, and technological development is needed to integrate an ecosystem of physiological sensors and apply adaptive thresholding. Design Interactive, Inc. (DI) proposes the development of the Biosignature Evaluation and Analytics Toolkit – Adaptive Automation (BEAT-2A). DI will leverage the existing BEAT system architecture and develop an adaptive automation module to further classify physiological data into cognitive states and provide individualized thresholding for adaptive triggering. The BEAT-2A software-hardware system will sense and process a user’s physiological state providing just-in-time triggering to improve task performance. BEAT-2A will be open to integration with a variety of systems where triggers are needed for automated aids. |
| FA8649-23-P-0676 | LessonsXR (TM) | $75,000 | Design Interactive, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/28/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | LessonsXR™, developed by Design Interactive and a component of our commercial product XRMentor™, is an innovative training tool that combines experiential learning principles and eXtended reality (XR) interactions with real and virtual high tempo content |
| FA8650-23-C-9203 | AFWERX FA8650-22-C-9222 Sequential Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase II - Decision Lens Accelerate | $1,636,110 | DittoLive Incorporated | SBIR | Phase II | AF193-CSO1 | 12/16/2022 | 03/18/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Ditto is a cross-platform, peer-to-peer, light-weight database that allows mobile device apps to sync with, and even without, network connectivity. Installing Ditto SyncKit into mobile device applications and/or operating system, allows APIs to read and write data into its storage system on the device and then syncs any changes to any other device. Unlike other synchronization solutions, Ditto is designed for "peer-to-peer" synchronization where it can directly communicate with other devices even without a network connection. In addition, Ditto automatically manages the complexity of using multiple network transports, like Bluetooth, P2P Wi-Fi, and Local Area Network (LAN), to find the optimal path, connect to other devices, and synchronize any implemented changes in the application. Ditto provides a complete software platform to enable nearly any type of computing system to share data in a real-time mesh network. When network communications are available, Ditto chooses the optimal path of transport, such as Bluetooth or Direct Wi-Fi or LAN to transmit changes to, and from, any other systems. Ditto does not require a central server, and instead operates in a P2P mechanism that creates a data-sharing mesh network, allowing devices to communicate directly with each other. This provides maximum flexibility to solve some of the toughest data communications challenges. Ditto was awarded an AFWERX Phase II (18 months/$1.5M) in 2019. Cyber Resiliency Office for Weapons Systems had a national defense-related mission need in the area of data integrity and synchronization in weapons systems during cyber-attack or electronic warfare. Ditto’s Phase II effort focused on adapting the base SyncKit for use on Air Force weapons system platforms ensuring cyber security and resiliency in extreme environments and building specific data interfaces needed for unique Air Force communications systems. This effort’s goal was to identify 1-3 mobile devices and fully demonstrate Ditto’s SyncKit Warfighter utility in an operationally relevant environment. The chosen device due to its availably and open-source code was the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK). Ditto teamed with MITRE to install Ditto SyncKit on ATAK devices with significant success. Phase II also launched a customer discovery campaign where USSOCOM & Air Mobility Command expressed in interest in the use of MPU-5 Wave Relay Tactical Networking Device and EFBs, respectively. Additionally, in a recent conversation with Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s Air Mobility Directorate, not having proper military grade encryption could present a significant problem.The goal of this effort is to add Military Grade encryption, investigate and demonstrate EFB data sync, develop cloud data sync solution for USAF applications, investigate Risk Management Framework requirements, complete work required to submit a Department of Air Force Authority to Operate, and culminate in an operationally relevant demonstration. |
| FA8649-23-P-1027 | Ditto Intelligent Fog Computing Technology for Resilient Information Sharing at the Tactical Edge in an Austere Environment | $1,125,108 | DittoLive Incorporated | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/19/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Ditto is a cross-platform, peer-to-peer, light-weight database that allows mobile device apps to sync with and even without network connectivity. Installing Ditto into mobile device applications and/or operating system, allows APIs to read and write data |
| W51701-23-C-0079 | Quantification of biomarkers in sweat with a wearable electrochemical platform | $149,756 | E-SENTIENCE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A224-025 | 04/03/2023 | 07/06/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W51701-23-C-0254 | Real-time monitoring of biomarkers of cognitive and physical performance in sweat | $1,899,934 | E-SENTIENCE LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-025 | 08/29/2023 | 03/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| W51701-23-C-0208 | Advanced Superconducting Cables for Aircraft | $1,800,000 | E-VOLV, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A224-016 | 09/12/2023 | 03/20/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0770 | Boring and Drilling as a Service (BADASSTM) Tunnel Boring Robot for Critical Infrastructure | $74,866 | EARTHGRID PBC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 06/05/2023 | 09/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Last year, President Biden warned that Russia has begun “exploring options” to attack U.S. critical infrastructure. The target list could include utilities that provide electricity to key military facilities; the way energy is generated, transmitted, stor |
| FA8649-23-P-0787 | Rapid Aerial Deployment Optionally-Tethered CBRN Monitoring System | $74,914 | EASY AERIAL INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/01/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Tethered drones with flexible payloads, long loiter times, and real-time data and video capabilities provide enhanced support to security forces, special operations and medical personnel conducting counter-CBRN (Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclea |
| FA8649-23-P-1029 | Tether blue sUAS with modular payload capability for emergency response mission set | $1,199,891 | EASY AERIAL INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/26/2023 | 06/26/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Air Force bases face numerous physical security and other challenges that require immediate response and constant vigilance. Situational awareness and the ability to respond are critical to Airmen and others’ safety and security. In the United States, m |
| FA8649-23-P-1088 | Automated Space Threat Identification and Assessment | $1,212,364 | EBASE, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/18/2023 | 04/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Our proposed technology addresses the need to detect and characterize co-orbital space threats from sparse and ambiguous data quickly and confidently. eBase proposes to use Automated threat detection to identify, predict, and provide threat assessment of |
| FA8649-23-P-0605 | Campaign Simulator for Synthetic Data and Scenario Generation of Space Warfare | $72,362 | EBASE, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Transition our Campaign Simulator used to generate synthetic financial data of financial models to test AI/ML products to generate synthetic data for threat models and Space Warfighting Campaigns. Our commercial data simulator is the key underlying techno |
| FA8649-23-P-0052 | SBMC2 Course-of-Action Generator For Multiple Threats Across Theater | $1,222,983 | EBASE, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 11/08/2022 | 05/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Our proposed technology provides decision-making support for Space Battle Management Command and Control (BMC2) to recommend Course of Action (CoA) responses for coordinated, multiple co-orbital threats simultaneously engaging multiple targets. Successfully responding to a coordinated threat is significantly more challenging than individual one-on-one actions. Our technology uses a Game Theory processor to evaluate CoAs and optimize selection. eBase originally developed a Game Theory Processor in 2009 to optimize profits on capital assets and recommend investment actions on high-risk assets for major financial institutions and investment firms. The game processor was developed to evaluate the real estate market, mortgage distress, and foreclosure rates during the 2010 housing market crisis. |
| N68335-23-C-0063 | CACHE: (Contribute, Approve, Curate, Hyper-distribution Engine) | $1,004,725 | Design Interactive, Inc. | STTR | Phase II | N21A-T016 | 12/01/2022 | 12/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | “Since the advent of the internet, senior (military) leaders have called for shifting from a “need-to-know” approach to a “need-to-share… this shift is difficult (without) the proper tools”. The current effort aims to provide such a tool. In Phase I, Design Interactive (DI) worked with Sailors onboard the CVN 78 to meet the Sailor 2025 Ready, Relevant Learning pillar, specifically “Modern Delivery at Point of Need”. Results indicated that: 1) Expert Sailors need a way to make their knowledge available to the enterprise; 2) Naval leadership needs a formal way to review, vet and edit knowledge passed on to ensure quality and safety; and 3) All Sailors need an intuitive way to access content to maximize the relevance, utility, and timeliness of shared content. To realize these capabilities, DI and Old Dominion University (ODU) Research Foundation created the Contribute, Approve, Curate, Hyper-distribution Engine (CACHE), a web-based knowledge curation and distribution system designed to make accessing content intuitive, efficient and effective. CACHE uses artificial intelligence (AI) to curate content relevant to each Sailor, introducing flexibility and speed, ultimately making content available, accurate, and accessible. The Phase II effort herein proposed seeks to fully develop and optimize CACHE. |
| FA8649-23-P-0607 | Course of Action Nomination with Mission Planner for Measure of Effectiveness (MoE) of Space Warfare | $72,565 | EBASE, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Adapt and Modify our Game Processor that supports investment firms’ decision-making on financial markets and SBMC2 Course of Action generator to include a mission planner. Integrate a mission planner to our CoA generator that plays out a space campaigns i |
| W51701-23-C-0263 | Wearable Technology Ecosystem for Physiological Monitoring and Actionable Insights | $1,900,000 | Design Interactive, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | A224-025 | 09/07/2023 | 03/08/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8617-23-C-B003 | STEADFAST | $1,799,890 | EDAPTIVE COMPUTING INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF231-D021 | 09/11/2023 | 09/11/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The process of acquiring and sustaining complex systems to support Air Force needs requires extensive regulation, documentation, and evaluation. As a result, extensive effort is required to both create and assess this documentation to ensure compliance wi |
| HQ072723C0003 | Synthesizable Register Transfer Logic (RTL) Assertions | $1,315,213 | EDAPTIVE COMPUTING INC | SBIR | Phase II | DMEA221-001 | 08/31/2023 | 09/29/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Microelectronics Activity | Verification and validation (V&V) of ICs have become progressively difficult as design complexity, the reuse of third-party intellectual property, and malicious attacks on microelectronics have all increased. Given these challenges, the DoD needs automated, user-friendly post-synthesis verification and validation solutions to assure its critical hardware systems. To address this need, ECI presents its AFIRM solution, which represents an innovative, end-to-end framework for the generation, synthesis, testing, and error analysis/reporting of synthesizable Hardware Description Language (HDL) run-time monitors. The ECI AFIRM solution leverages innovative technologies that allow users to select from a library of assertions that are automatically converted into synthesizable run-time monitors. The ECI AFIRM solution also leverages automated scripts for commercial-off-the shelf (COTS) electronic design automation (EDA) tools for hardware design synthesis and testing, reducing development time and costs. It then reports any design failures captured by the synthesized run-time monitors and identifies signals and registers that can explain the failure so the code can be corrected efficiently. The ECI AFIRM solution will provide a cost-effective set of capabilities to reduce testing time, increased performance robustness and enhance hardware assurance while leveraging state-of-the-art assertion-based verification and COTS EDA tool workflows. This will ensure mission success and warfighter safety and security. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7132 | ARMED Phase II | $1,494,047 | EDAPTIVE COMPUTING INC | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-003 | 02/14/2023 | 02/13/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Specifications of large, legacy systems can consist of thousands of requirements. Manually associating these requirements with architecture components is very time consuming. Given the number of MDA systems and simulations and their long legacies, the task of manually converting to architecture diagrams is challenging. To address this need, Edaptive Computing, Inc. (ECI) proposes the Automatic Requirements Mapping to Architecture Diagrams, or ARMED solution, which specifically addresses MDA’s need to automate the generation of architectures for complex systems. The ARMED solution will streamline the requirements mapping process by automating both mapping and the generation of SysML architectures. The resulting SysML architecture models will provide direct traceability to requirements and save considerable time and rework throughout the systems engineering process. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| FA8649-23-P-0144 | EDDY Pump - advanced pump for water and solid pumping | $74,420 | EDDY PUMP CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | EDDY Pump Corporation is an engineering company that builds dredge equipment and industrial pumps. We are committed to providing the best pump technology and service to fit our client’s needs. The core of our company is the patented EDDY Pump technology. The EDDY Pump is not a Centrifugal, Vortex or Positive Displacement Pump. Instead, it is a patented design built to harness the power of a tornado into fluid dynamics, creating a synchronized eddy current. This design enables the EDDY Pump to handle material once deemed impossible or cost prohibitive. The EDDY Pump does not have an impeller, but instead a geometrically designed spinning rotor that creates an eddy current. Based on this design a higher suction is created without being restricted by critical tolerances other pumps abide by. The superior design translates to significant maintenance cost reductions and the ability of the EDDY Pump to exceed other pumps in handling viscous fluids with high percentage solids. |
| FA8649-23-P-0932 | Mission Assurance for Autonomy and Reinforcement Learning with Carnegie Mellon University | $74,808 | EDGE CASE RESEARCH INC | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Reinforcement learning (RL) is key to high performance autonomous flight systems such as those fielded by Shield AI and others. RL is incompatible with safety / airworthiness standards such as MIL-STD-882E and DO-178C. We will bridge this gap with a novel |
| FA5613-23-P-0200 | Smart Tool Box - New Integrated ATC | $174,150 | EDLORE INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0017 | 09/21/2023 | 09/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The objective of this phase I topic is to research the feasibility of developing a Military spec/hardened automatic tool control (ATC) toolbox that runs off a remote located network approved computer or virtual machine (VM) and incorporates a user interfa |
| FA8649-23-P-0351 | Ensuring Autonomous Safety and Reliability in DAF Mission Critical Systems for Aircraft Object Detect and Avoidance Teaming with Carnegie Mellon University | $74,842 | EDGE CASE RESEARCH INC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ECR is a market leader in the autonomous system assurance, verification, and certification space. We developed the UL 4600 standard which is cited as the US DOT and NHTSA Key framework for autonomous vehicle (AV) safety. Our SaaS platform nLoop builds safety cases, manages risk, makes deployment decisions and communicates overall safety. ECR and nLoop are able to address both commercial and federal customers and maintain a robust portfolio of customers in both markets. ECR maintains a close relationship with world class researchers from MIT and Carnegie Mellon University. ECR continues close and continued relationships with our Federal Partners at the Undersecretary of Defense R&E, NASA, the U.S. Navy, and the U.S. Army. Our commercial customers and development partners include world-class firms such as Aurora, BMW, Bosch, and Volkswagen to name a few. We continually adapt and enhance nLoop based on feedback received and constantly evolving commercial and academic developments. |
| FA5613-23-P-0114 | Mixed Reality Glasses for Aircraft Maintenance | $170,748 | EDLORE INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0021 | 09/04/2023 | 02/01/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The objective of this Phase I R&D to do teh feasibility study to develop voice controlled Mixed Reality glasses that can access aircraft repair manuals from local area network (LAN) repository (disconnected operations) or over the internet and project the |
| FA8650-23-P-1013 | Multi-Function Digital AESA and Sensor Resource Manager (SRM) Systems Engineering | $149,699 | EIKON RESEARCH INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0016 | 02/10/2023 | 11/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The US Air Force requires a mission engineering and modeling tool to evaluate the most appropriate combination of radar software and processing capabilities to achieve USAF mission objectives with a particular interest in digital active electronically sca |
| W5170123C0034 | Enzyme Fuel Cell Power Generation System | $1,699,999 | ELECTRIC DRIVETRAIN TECHNOLOGIES LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-019 | 03/08/2023 | 09/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8614-23-9-0006 | eSTOL Aircraft Rapid Development, Prototyping, Test, and Evaluation | $30,000,000 | ELECTRA.AERO INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF203-DCSO1 | 07/19/2023 | 07/19/2026 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Driven by the latest strategy directives – including the SECAF’s Operational Imperatives, USAF Chief of Staff’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) doctrine, and USAF Operational Energy goals – the USAF has clearly articulated requirements for tactical logistic |
| FA8649-23-P-0022 | Flight and Power Control Systems Development for a Turbine-Hybrid DEP eSTOL Aircraft | $1,249,079 | ELECTRA.AERO INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 11/23/2022 | 09/28/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Electra is developing a hybrid-electric ultra-short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft for commercial advanced air mobility markets which also offers strong dual-use capabilities for defense missions. Electra’s commercial product aircraft leverages distributed electric propulsion and blown lift to efficiently transport seven to nine passengers (1,800 lbs of payload) up to 500 nautical miles with takeoff ground rolls of only 150 feet. Electra is planning a commercial entry into service date of 2026 under FAA Part 23 regulations. As a risk reduction milestone to reaching the product, Electra is currently building a 2-seat, 3,000-lb gross weight hybrid-electric STOL technology demonstrator aircraft (“TD-2”), which is expected to achieve first flight in late 2022. To achieve the differentiating ultra-STOL takeoff and landing capability outlined above, precise flight control at very low forward speeds is required, where conventional aerodynamic control surfaces are ineffective and wind gusts are a relatively large proportion of the vehicle speed. This makes the design and precision of the flight control system a key challenge, especially since many target landing locations have very small footprints. The distributed electric blown wing configuration offers a unique opportunity to greatly increase low speed control authority by integrating rapid response rate electric motors into the lateral and longitudinal control systems. The large number of motors and complex aeropropulsive coupling effects make this an even more challenging problem to solve. Related to this is the challenge of developing the control system for the hybrid powertrain, which determines the power allocation between the turbine and the battery as well as handles failure or off-nominal system states. Due to the large numbers of electrical components in the powertrain and the complexity of potential failure modes, this requires the development of more sophisticated on-board energy management systems. This SBIR proposal is focused on the development of a new approach to highly responsive low speed flight control and hybrid systems power management. First, an accurate piloted eSTOL simulator will be developed to help design and test a novel integrated flight control system, pilot control strategies, and motor control integrations. Enhanced pilot displays that show the operational state of the hybrid system and aid landing precision will also be developed. The resultant novel flight control system will be implemented and tested in a HILSIM and integrated into Electra’s ultra-STOL technology demonstrator aircraft described above. |
| FA8650-23-P-1023 | Novel method of estimating moving target spatial dynamics for radar imaging | $149,987 | ELECTROMAGNETIC SYSTEMS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0024 | 01/19/2023 | 10/19/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The increasing proliferation of mobile missile technology, as well as the adoption of CONOPs that hide launchers between deployments, are driving a need for the capability to identify fleeting targets while they are in motion. Radar sensors are essential for this capability, as other sensors cannot perform in all weather and light conditions. Because vehicles move straight the vast majority of the time, but with inadvertent irregular translational and rotational motions defocus the vehicle’s radar image, estimation of moving vehicle spatial dynamics is entwined with vehicle identification. EMSI proposes to extract moving vehicle spatial dynamics by combining traditional radar processing with an adaptation of state-of-the-art computer vision structure-from-motion processing to multi-radar data, and to define radar topologies and waveform parameters suitable for extracting the dynamics. All training in Phase I and the bulk of the training thereafter will rely on synthetic data. The speed of EMSI’s STARDUST synthetic generation service enables the generation of sufficient training data. . |
| FA8649-23-P-1179 | Developing Novel Solar Cell Materials Technology for Resilient Space Dominance | $1,243,239 | ELECTRONINKS INCORPORATED | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In March 2022, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall outlined his Operational Imperatives, number one of which was Defining Resilient and Effective Space Order of Battle and Architectures. In order to reduce targetability, DAF will be phasing out large |
| FA8649-23-P-0078 | Ink Additive Manufacturing Solution for EMI/RF Shielding and Conductive Textiles | $74,660 | ELECTRONINKS INCORPORATED | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Electroninks is leveraging their position as a world-leader in developing and manufacturing particle-free conductive inks to provide an economical, rapidly deployable and portable additive manufacturing solution to EMI/RF shielding of critical Air Force infrastructure. Electroninks’ unique inks are able to produce conductive coatings on a variety of materials, including existing textiles such as tents and uniforms. And because the inks produce pure metal films without binders and fillers, they can produce results at up to a 90% reduction in metal usage compared to other metal inks and shielding options. Integrated EMI/RF shielding technology is critical to ensuring strategic communication in all types of environments, particularly as the threat of electronic warfare makes constant and redundant communication capability absolutely essential on the battlefield. Combined with the Air Force’s move to Agile Combat Employment, which will require lightweight, mobile facilities, Electroninks is the perfect solution to create and enhance EMI/RF shielding or conductivity in the field using existing materials such as existing non-shielding uniforms or tents. |
| FA8649-23-P-0475 | Long-Lasting Preservation Coating for Static Aircraft Displays | $934,742 | ELEMENT 119 LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/08/2023 | 11/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Element 119 proposes a Phase II study to optimize and test a prototype of a groundbreaking preservation coating for static aircraft. The USAF has more than 2,500 retired planes and helicopters on display in military museums, on bases, and outside veterans |
| FA8649-23-P-1031 | 1K Polysiloxane Topcoat for Aerospace Ground Equipment | $1,249,399 | ELEMENT 119 LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/20/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposal being submitted is for an eco-friendly 1K polysiloxane corrosion-control topcoat for aerospace ground equipment. This coating is free of isocyanates and hazardous air pollutants, and does not require mixing of components like current 2K polyu |
| N68335-23-C-0425 | MPLC-Based OAM Laser Transformer | $139,992 | [ ELEPHINT LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | N231-059 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | We propose to demonstrate an OAM transformer based on the multi-plane light conversion (MPLC) technology and wavelength-division multiplexing. Since the pre-release of this SBIR topic, our team has carried out preliminary simulations and experiments to prove the feasibility of the proposed approach by demonstrating Gaussian to OAM (L=1 through 5) transformations using a two-phase-mask MPLCs, with insertion loss < 0.1 dB and mode purity > 15 dB. Furthermore, we have designed an MPLC for converting a Gaussian beam into a superposition of two OAM modes (L=8 and L=9), which is required for the degenerate SAM and non-degenerate OAM four-wave-mixing interaction in ring-core OAM fibers for wavelength translation. This MPLC again uses only two phase masks, yielding an insertion loss <0.2 dB and mode purity >15 dB. During Phase I research, we will 1) Design MPLC phase screens for an OAM mode transformer/multiplexer that can convert 3 Gaussian beams at three wavelengths, 1 micron, 1.5 microns and 2 microns, into 3 desired (superposition of) OAM modes (with L between ±5 and ±40) and multiplexed them into a single ring-core OAM fiber, 2) fabricate and assemble the above MPLCs using lithographically defined phase masks, and 3) in the Option period, partially fulfill Phase II goals by delivering a compact device with two LMA/SMF pigtails carrying 0.98 micron and 1.5 microns of light and produce two desired OAM modes in a ring-core OAM fiber, with one specific OAM mode for each wavelength. |
| FA8109-23-C-B002 | Legacy Technical Data Conversion of 2D to 2D Digital Files | $749,990 | ELEVAN LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF203-CSO3 | 08/01/2023 | 07/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In this TACFI, Elevate Systems will build upon the efforts performed in Phase II and continue the R&D work to enhance the data analysis and conversion platform. These enhancements will focus on the pre-processing pipeline, extraction algorithms, character |
| N68335-23-C-0528 | Multi-Spectral Image Enhancement and Fusion | $139,753 | EM PHOTONICS INC | SBIR | Phase I | N231-045 | 06/21/2023 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | As the proliferation of video sensors continues, it becomes increasingly difficult to simultaneously monitor available video feeds to extract meaningful information. While automated analytics tools help, there is value to having a single, integrated view of a scene - a composite of the available cameras. These cameras may have different resolutions, framerates, and fields of view while operating in different spectral bands. The ideal solution would incorporate the unique capabilities of these various sensors into a fused view that provides a better picture and more information than any individual feed. We have developed such an approach that incorporates image enhancement, quality analysis, and fusion to create a unified view of the scene based on multiple visible and/or infrared cameras. |
| FA8649-23-P-0275 | Discreet Space-Domain Awareness Through Dual-Faced AESA SAR Satellites | $73,947 | [www.emagtech.com EMAG TECHNOLOGIES INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/21/2022 | 02/27/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As the number of LEO and MEO satellites continues to grow exponentially, the need for thorough and accurate space domain awareness (SDA) becomes more urgent. RFBI proposes a Phase 1 SBIR that evaluates the feasibility of a dual-purpose solution which provides space-based synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imagery of the earth, while also yielding covert SDA sensing and tracking, specifically for the US Space Force Space Systems Command, Space Domain Awareness and Combat Power office. Due to the detectability of the X-band SAR sensor, adversaries will believe that each satellite is simply another commercial SAR satellite, which gives the DOD an advantage when it comes . The solution will be built upon the X-band SAR payload that RFBI is already developing and testing, with the addition of a K/Ka band array on the back of the SAR array that will face the “sky” and discreetly detect dark objects in higher orbits, the operation of which will not be detectable from the ground due to atmospheric absorption of the RF energy. The SAR imaging sensor will be capable of providing |
| FA9453-23-P-A053 | Novel Metrology Solutions for Space Based Antennas | $149,950 | [www.emagtech.com EMAG TECHNOLOGIES INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | SF224-0009 | 03/31/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In this SBIR project, EMAG Technologies Inc. proposes to use its commercially available NeoScan near-field measurement technology to develop a novel metrology for space-based antenna systems. NeoScan probes use electro-optic (EO) crystals for non-invasive |
| N68335-23-C-0088 | Bioinspired Rebreather | $139,710 | [ EMERGINGDX INC] | SBIR | Phase I | N222-120 | 11/07/2022 | 05/09/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Emergingdx Inc in collaboration with academic and industry partners will design and develop a novel rebreather. The new design will (i) provide oxygen and/or eliminate CO2 at a rate to match metabolic rates of an active diver in missions lasting up to 10 hours (ii) be modular so that it can be easily disassembled, cleaned, disinfected, and dried, (iii) have similar or smaller formfactor than current rebreather components, (iv) eliminate CO2 (not as a gas form into the water) through chemical conversion instead of storing scrubbed CO2 within the rebreather unit. |
| FA8649-23-P-0727 | ESA-ALE: Electric Small Aircraft – Air Launch Effect via Valkyrie | $74,318 | EMPIRICAL SYSTEMS AEROSPACE INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ESAero proposes to conduct a feasibility study to develop an air launched swarming system utilizing ESAero’s lightweight avionics suite from its VESA product on a commercially available sUAS airframe. This system will be evaluated to be deployed from a la |
| FA8649-23-P-0835 | Part Predictive Maintenance | $74,926 | EMPOWER EQUITY INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/01/2023 | 08/01/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force has significantly struggled to organically maintain and service aircraft in a timely fashion to return aircraft to the warfighter for mission-essential purposes. Delays have stemmed from many reasons: consolidation of repair facilities, dif |
| FA8649-23-P-1032 | Rapid Counterfeit Part Detection | $1,202,738 | EMPOWER EQUITY INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 08/17/2023 | 02/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Leveraging the core-underlying technology of One Click Capture, EMPEQ is proposing a solution that uses machine learning to identify electronic parts through a secure handheld device such as an iPhone, iPad, tablet, or Android. This same technology would |
| FA8649-23-P-0230 | Fast Site Survey for a Greener Air Force | $74,990 | EMPOWER EQUITY INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Fast Site Survey™ tool automates traditional workflows for site equipment auditors through an integrated, AI-enabled mobile & cloud-based app that digitizes commercial equipment data with just the click of a smartphone’s camera. The One-Click Capture™ experience using proprietary Intelligent Equipment Identification technology allows site auditors to complete surveys in 50-80% less time. The instantaneously captured data can be exported to Excel or 3,000 other software platforms at the click of a button. |
| FA8649-23-P-0293 | Software platform for testing AI models in real-world defense environments | $74,895 | [htttps://www.enabledintelligence.net ENABLED INTELLIGENCE, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 10/31/2022 | 02/01/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The USAF and DoD are investing heavily in AI technologies to help warfighters leverage the vast amounts of critical data available during modern warfare. However, most AI tech is developed using commercial data not-representative of real-world military data and operational environments. Enabled Intelligence, Inc. (EI) is proposing to adapt its AI model testing software platform to provide the Air Force with the automated and accurate testing and evaluation of AI technologies in real-world USAF environments and situations. The EI platform will help ensure USAF AI technologies work as needed and expected in the field and help detect and address potential adversarial “spoofing” of USAF AI tools. With the EI tool, the USAF could learn that a seemingly high performing aircraft detection AI doesn’t work on new Russian Migs, or in snowing terrain, or when there is camouflage. EI testing would also detect if a model stops working due to adversarial changes. Through EI’s platform, the USAF could realize the benefits enjoyed by EI’s commercial clients, including: 1) ultra-fat AI model testing; 2) Highly detailed evaluations showing very specific errors and capabilities of each AI model by data type, object, environment and other factors; 3) Faster turnaround on AI model improvement to allow for faster AI deployment; and 4) Detection of changes / spoofing in AI models as they change over time in the field. EI’s AI testing platform can be adapted to test AI models using classified and other truly representative AF mission data to provide detailed and accurate testing of real AI model performance. The platform can run in the cloud or on-premises (for more secure installations). Using the technology, EI has tested a wide variety of AI model types, use cases, and on a variety of data formats. The platform comprehensively and automatically tests AI tech and goes beyond typical commercial AI tests. The EI platform produces detailed direction on which types of data and/or instances show reduced performance, what kinds of additional training data would improve AI model performance. For example, a typical AI test may report a 96% detection rate of aircraft in satellite imagery. The tests can also detect changes in AI performance overtime due to adversarial spoofing. |
| FA8649-23-P-0478 | Adapting data annotation processes and automation tools specifically for DoD hyperspectral information and AI development | $766,610 | [htttps://www.enabledintelligence.net ENABLED INTELLIGENCE, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/07/2023 | 06/10/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | DoD and NASIC rely on HSI and would significantly benefit from HSI specific annotation processes and reliable AI tools to improve analysis, speed kill chains, and improve situational awareness. Design of and access to reliable and accurate annotation pro |
| FA8649-23-P-0630 | Accelerating mission readiness with hybrid reinforcement of SiC-C heat shields for hypersonics and atmospheric reentry | $71,280 | ENDEAVOR COMPOSITES, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/03/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The U.S. is behind in developing an operational hypersonic capability. With Endeavor Composites, the U.S. will have a cost and weight edge by using materials that can be made 5x faster and at half the cost. Endeavor Composites, Inc, has adapted co |
| FA8650-23-P-6479 | A Closed-Loop Sense/Assess/Augment Wearable Device for Autonomous Performance Enhancement | $150,000 | ENDECTRA LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF221-0018 | 12/13/2022 | 11/15/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This Phase I SBIR research effort will adapt the Cerenkov Multi-Spectral Imaging (CMSI) platform, a compact and ultrafast optical detector technology already demonstrated for real-time spectroscopy and dosimetry in radiotherapy, to the unique requirements of monitoring stress and fatigue biomarkers in a wearable biophotonic device. Feasibility will also be determined for combining this sensor technology with a commercial transdermal drug delivery system which can deliver systemic performance enhancement agents on demand and in a comfortable and minimally invasive manner. A literature search will be completed to determine the appropriate performance biomarkers, while benchtop tests will be conducted to determine which of these molecular biomarkers are most compatible with the biophotonic platform. Chemists, research pharmacists, and experts in iontophoresis will be consulted to determine which existing enhancement agents are compatible with this delivery approach, as well as the fundamental characteristics required of any future drugs that might be developed for this specific purpose. The research will demonstrate that on-skin Raman spectroscopy and iontophoresis technologies can be combined in a closed-loop sense/assess/augment system and establish the foundation for rapid prototyping of such a system in Phase II. |
| FA8649-23-P-1123 | Mechanically locking, high vibration resistant fuel line connectors and hydraulic fittings to improve flight line maintenance times on the B-1 and B-2 by eliminating the need for safety wire | $1,205,000 | ENDURALOCK LLC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 07/21/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Ensuring superior, cutting-edge warfighting capabilities requires rethinking fundamental technologies that have been utilized for decades. Safety wiring to prevent fastener and fitting disconnections in difficult environments is a cumbersome process t |
| FA8649-23-P-0235 | Mechanically locking, high vibration resistant fuel line connectors and hydraulic fittings to improve flight line maintenance times on the B-1 and B-2 by eliminating the need for safety wire | $74,994 | ENDURALOCK LLC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This Phase I feasibility study is to develop a mechanically locking, high vibration resistant and reusable fastening solution for aircraft fuel connectors and hydraulic fittings (without the need for safety wire) for critical fluid conveyance system applications on the B-1 and B-2 aircraft and ground support equipment. The proposed technology with its positive locking mechanism will provide for zero leak connections even when applied in high pressure, high vibration, and high temperature environments. The ease of application and reversible/reusable property of the technology will improve flight line maintenance times on the B-1 and B-2 aircrafts. Fuel line connectors and hydraulic fittings are used in critical fluid conveyance systems of an aircraft, such as fuel systems, landing gear systems, wheel brakes, thrust reverser actuation systems, and wing routing actuations, etc. The fittings applied in these critical applications are commonly exposed to high vibration and high temperature that could result in failure of the fitting joint, and thus the performance of the critical system itself. Currently, the connectors and fittings applied in critical aircraft systems are fastened and safety-wired to reduce their chance of loosening due to rigorous vibration and inconsistent pressure of fluids. The manual installation of safety wire is very labor-intensive and therefore costly. A mechanic can typically safety-wire 10 fasteners per hour at an hourly labor rate of $150. Hence, there is an imminent need to develop a high vibration resistant and high-pressure fluid connector that is easy to install and that can remain locked and provide for secure fluid connections when exposed to extreme vibration. Enduralock, in collaboration with an offshore well completions company, has previously developed the first mechanically locking, high vibration-high temperature resistant fastening solution for 17000 PSI gas fitting that in vibration testing, in accordance with National Aerospace Standard (NAS), survived 10x the aerospace requirement for a self-locking nut, proving its reliability in establishing a secure and reliable connection for the fluid lines. The fastening technology was designed to be installed with standard tools for ease of application and the fastening mechanism is fully reversible/reusable in maintenance. On the assembly line, approximately over 300 of Enduralock’s high vibration resistant fasteners could be installed in an hour compared to 10 fasteners that can be safety wired during the same time. Thus, integration of Enduralock’s locking technology in aircraft fuel connectors and hydraulic fittings that are currently safety wired will result in improvement of both the reliability of the connectors in high vibration environments and the flight line maintenance times on the assembly line for the B-1 and B-2 aircrafts. |
| N68335-23-C-0266 | Precision Auto Calibrated Shell Resonator Gyroscope | $864,726 | ENERTIA MICROSYSTEMS INC | SBIR | Phase II | N211-012 | 09/11/2023 | 01/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Our goal for this Navy SBIR project is to develop a TRL-7 prototype of the BRG with excellent long-term bias stability and shock and vibration insensitivity that can operate in a military temperature range (-50–80 °C) and optionally can operate at very high temperature (200 °C) (i.e. bias drift < 0.01 deg/hr, angle random walk < 0.005 deg/sqrt(hr), and scale factor stability < 100 ppm). We will investigate and overcome the factors that affect the bias stability and temperature sensitivities of bias and scale factor that currently limit the performance of the Gen-1 readout-and-control electronics. We also propose to evaluate and enhance the performance of electronic self-calibration and compensation algorithms with BRG-10 prototype that will be ready TA2. We plan to test the bias stability and scale factor stability of the BRG-10 prototypes including the self-calibration and compensation algorithms in the military temperature range (-50-85 ºC). In TA2, we plan to continue the fabrication of BRG-10 prototypes including a dual-layer vacuum package. We plan to demonstrate excellent Q (>4 million) and ?f (<1 Hz), which are essentially needed for building a navigation-grade gyroscope. |
| N68335-23-C-0262 | Magnet-free Microfabricated UHV Ion Pump with Integrated Pressure Sensors | $898,984 | ENGENIUSMICRO LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N212-133 | 04/19/2023 | 10/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Pumping silicon-based cavities to ultra-high vacuum (UHV) pressure levels is challenging using microfabricated pumps. Among the various technologies that achieve UHV at macroscale, ion-sorption pumps are currently the most promising for miniaturization because of the improved surface to volume ratio. Although they reach and maintain 7E-7 Torr, miniature ion-pumps that have been published use permanent magnets to trap electrons into 100’s meter long mean free path to improve the probability of ionizing gas particles at the UHV levels. However, these magnets are cumbersome, bulky and heavy and can also interfere with sensitive circuits and sensors. This problem is compounded by the lack of absolute pressure sensors that do not require a calibration curve to measure the internal pressure. Drift due to real or virtual leaks after bonding can only be accurately measured using a cold atom pressure gauge for pressures below 1E-7 Torr. This proposal will develop a microfabricated ion-sorption ring-Orbitron pump based on previous theoretical work. This device uses a ring-shaped anode to electrostatically trap electrons and increase their mean free path to favor gas ionization without using magnets. The ionized gas particles, including N2 and other noble gas, are then trapped into the getter-coated sidewalls. This pump will be accompanied by a gas discharge pump that can operate across a broader pressure range. Neither the ring-Orbitron nor the gas-discharge pump require magnets nor moving parts to function; instead, they rely on electrical biasing which can be easily achieved without complex electronics. The proposed device also includes a cold atom cavity to measure pressure in the target UHV range as well as a graphite specimen to avoid loading the pump with Rubidium gas. The proposed device will be fabricated in phase II using silicon microfabrication technology, such that it will be highly compatible with silicon-based cavities. |
| N68335-23-C-0261 | Large Footprint Silicon Leadless Chip Carrier | $898,943 | ENGENIUSMICRO LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N212-132 | 04/20/2023 | 10/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Robust electronic packaging is critical to the performance of inertial sensors in austere environments and to mitigate damage from mechanical, thermal, and radiation effects. Mechanical damage originates from large shocks and vibrations and significant harmonic loading. Thermal damage and thermal errors originate from poor temperature control and induced thermal stresses. Precision microfabricated sensors can suffer significant errors due to temperature and induced strains. Finally, ionizing radiation exposure and/or high-power RF countermeasures disrupt critical integrated circuits by inducing charges or changing the physical properties of the semiconductor material itself. The integrated circuits are critical for signal conditioning and error compensation. Meeting the environmental needs for precision sensors with low-SWaP-C requires considerable design and integration of the sensors, integrated electronics, and package. This proposal will develop integrated radiation spot shielding and thermal isolation for additively manufactured packages. The concept includes a ceramic package with integrated vias and conductors. The package includes a large internal volume to house mechanical protection, thermal protection, mounted sensors, and electronics. The package will include a large internal footprint to package multi-chip modules and chip-bonded stacks. The proposed work will develop 1) materials and processes required to additively manufacture radiation shielding materials. 2) materials and processes to mitigate thermal stresses due to die attachment to the package, and 3) manufacturing methods for these new material systems with our existing ceramic printed packages. |
| W51701-23-C-0123 | Wearable Radiation Sensors | $249,918 | ENGENIUSMICRO LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-006 | 05/31/2023 | 11/27/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA9453-23-P-A026 | Vacuum packaged microfabricated rubidium vapor cells | $149,989 | ENGENIUSMICRO LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SF222-0019 | 12/22/2022 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | There is an interest to develop miniature tactical-grade clock to overcome GPS timing vulnerability for a wide range of DOD missions. Chip-scale atomic clocks do not meet tactical grade requirements and require 2 to 3 orders of magnitude improvement on their frequency sensitivity to thermal perturbations. One approach consists in replacing the atomic vapor (Rb, Cs, Ca, Sr, Yb) with molecular vapor (I2, COS, C2H2, CO) because molecules do not condensate at temperatures beyond 130˚C. With that in mind, miniature clocks with lower frequency drift rates require the development of heaters and thermal probes that do not generate residual magnetic fields at that target operating temperature. In this Phase I effort, EngeniusMicro will transfer the technology developed by John Kitching’s group at NIST. The technology consists of an atomic vapor cell fabricated by a 2-step anodic process which removes the Rb pill from the final cell, allowing for a more stable chemical environment and a much smaller footprint. The atomic vapor cell is sandwiched by Kapton tethers which mechanically support and thermally isolate the cell from the environment. The complete physics package is 1cm by 1cm and the cell is electrically connected via planar electrical feedthroughs. Several aspects of this technology will be improved upon including the design of the heaters and the choice of materials to enable RTDs with sub-1mK temperature sensitivity. If the prototyping effort is successful in Phases I & II, we will transfer the fabrication process flow to Dynetics Leidos for mid-volume fabrication in a single-user facility that can handle TS level security clearance. |
| N68936-23-C-0011 | Hypersonic Infrared Windows Enabled by Advanced Nanomaterials | $125,000 | ENGI-MAT CO | SBIR | Phase II | N212-117 | 09/07/2023 | 10/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | The United States Department of the Navy utilizes hypersonic aerial vehicles for mission-critical applications in communication, guidance, intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance. These functions rely upon infrared (IR) optical signals that are transmitted via highly sensitive optoelectronics housed on the vehicles. A window protects the optoelectronics while allowing transmission of IR signals to and from the detector. The IR window must withstand extreme conditions during hypersonic flights, including high temperatures and pressures and aggressive chemical environments. Novel window materials are desperately needed to realize broader optical transmission in the short-wave infrared (SWIR), mid-wave infrared (MWIR), and long-wave infrared (LWIR) regions, while maintaining high levels of chemical and mechanical stability. Engi-Mat Co., with the assistance of a prime defense contractor, proposes the development of enhanced IR windows using novel metal oxide nanopowders to satisfy these demanding requirements. The advanced nanopowders developed by Engi-Mat will have variable elemental compositions and particle characteristics that enable the optimization of next-generation IR windows for hypersonic vehicles. |
| FA8650-23-P-1016 | Ultra-Wideband High Efficiency Power Amplifier for Multifunction RF Systems | $149,876 | [ ENGIN-IC INC] | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0020 | 01/24/2023 | 10/24/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ENGIN-IC proposes the development of a wideband GaN-on-SiC high efficiency amplifier to achieve the goals of this program. ENGIN-IC applies a novel, patented circuit topology to achieve simultaneous SWR and high PAE load impedance match across a decade bandwidth or more. The circuit topology proposed is quite different from that of a distributed amplifier. The topology proposed enables higher amplifier PAE across a wide bandwidth, and greatly reduces the size of the amplifier in comparison to distributed amplifier circuit topologies. Such amplifiers can then be sized easily to fit in 3 mm or smaller array spacings. ENGIN-IC has built more than 10,000 3-W, 33% PAE 2 – 18 GHz GaN amplifiers over the past three years. Amplifier dimensions are 4.2 mm x 1.7 mm – the parts are very narrow in width, and support T/R element spacings of 3 mm or less. These amplifiers offer 30-dB small-signal gain and 13-dB or better I/O return loss across 2 to 18 GHz. This production experience forms a strong foundation for the proposed study and development work for this AFRL high PAE amplifier program. A two-stage, 2 to 20 GHz GaN amplifier will be demonstrated by ENGIN-IC later this summer, offering 2-W output power and 45% PAE across much of the band. This will set a new efficiency record for near decade bandwidth solid-state amplifiers in this frequency range. During Phase 1, ENGIN-IC will prepare a detailed comparison of wideband GaN amplifiers simulated using GaN transistors from four or five different foundries. These transistors should enable wideband hybrid high PAE feedback amplifiers to achieve power levels > 5 W across 2 to 18 GHz. ENGIN-IC proposes study of other foundry process options discussed in the proposal that will enable higher Q, lower voltage drop passive circuit components. During Phase 1, ENGIN-IC will prepare a comparison summary of these foundry process options, and their impact on wideband amplifier PAE. ENGIN-IC will study different assembly processes for the wideband, high PAE GaN amplifier as well. A proper selection of a) GaN foundry process; b) passive circuit / component processes; and c) assembly processes should enable fabrication of wideband, high PAE amplifiers offering 3-W or higher output power, and > 50% PAE across 2 to 18 GHz. These amplifiers will have widths (or y-dimensions) of 2 mm or less. By the end of Phase 1, ENGIN-IC will provide a design simulation of such an amplifier, using the study-recommended foundry and assembly processes. |
| N68335-23-C-0255 | High Efficiency, Low Size and Weight and Power (SWAP) Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPAs) for Sensor Applications | $899,829 | [ ENGIN-IC INC] | SBIR | Phase II | N212-137 | 04/10/2023 | 10/10/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | In the Phase 1 program, ENGIN-IC studied the key technologies to develop a 200-W Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA) utilizing novel, highly efficient GaN HEMT MMICs, low loss combiners, and manufacturing techniques to minimize the size of the SSPA module. In Phase 2, ENGIN-IC will advance these designs with high TRL level demonstrators. A GaN MMIC amplifier with 32-W saturated output power, 25-dB large signal gain and 48 to 52% power-added-efficiency (PAE) will be demonstrated. Modular sub-assemblies with more than 60-W output power and 45% efficiency will be demonstrated, using this MMIC. These sub-modules will be combined through a low-loss waveguide combiner resulting in a SSPA with more than 200-W output power and 40% efficiency across the specified Ku-Band frequency range. Hybrid packaging techniques allow for a compact modular integrated microwave assembly with an innovative cooling approach to maintain reliable operation through extreme environments. The technologies will be qualified with testing to extreme program environments and will be available for immediate use in production systems. These technologies solve key system issues including high efficiency amplifier power generation and density, cooling, size constraints, and low loss combining. These technologies can all be adapted to support future system acquisition objectives through scaling of MMIC frequencies, bandwidth, output power, and module combining quantities. |
| FA5606-23-C-0012 | RFID Enabled Automated Parts Requisitioning (VMI/KANBAN) | $169,073 | ENGINEERED PRODUCTS OF OHIO, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0018 | 08/30/2023 | 08/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The ability to easily manage the parts/supply requisition is a challenge both in the Air Force and the Commercial space. By creating an autonomous method for triggering automated stock replenishment for parts and supplies greatly reduces human error, add |
| FA8649-23-P-0507 | Novel Titanium Surface Activation Methods as a Hydrofluoric Acid Alternative | $949,660 | ENGINEERING AND SOFTWARE SYSTEM SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/07/2023 | 11/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Hydrofluoric (HF) acid has been used for decades to prepare titanium substrate for high velocity oxygen fuel (HVOF) spray per the Douglas Process Standard (DPS) 9.29. HF acid prepares the substrate by removing any oxide material and etching the titanium, |
| FA8649-23-P-0646 | Robotic De-fastening and Replacement of Aircraft Structural Parts | $74,871 | ENGINEERING AND SOFTWARE SYSTEM SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | During scheduled depot maintenance, major structural repairs (MSR’s) are required that include removal and replacement of airframe skin and structural components. The manual repair process, that requires highly skilled artisans, is quite tedious/laborious |
| FA8649-23-P-0523 | Thermal Spray Metallurgical Laboratory Artificial Intelligence | $1,148,165 | ENGINEERING AND SOFTWARE SYSTEM SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/07/2023 | 11/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Mission-critical components that are coated using thermal spray methods require process verification coupons to be coated simultaneously with the components. These coupons then undergo rigorous processing and inspection in the metallurgical laboratory to |
| N68335-23-C-0107 | Triton On-Board Weight and Balance System (OBWBS) | $1,555,830 | ENGINEERING AND SOFTWARE SYSTEM SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N121-043 | 02/15/2023 | 05/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | This Phase II.5 AT effort will expand the data collection capability developed for the P-8A Diagnostic Of Landing gear Fatigue In-service Nexus (DOLFIN) system in order to develop an OBWBS for the Navy’s MQ-4C Triton UAV. The overarching objective of this SBIR topic is development of innovative approaches for prognostic/diagnostic systems that can be utilized to monitor and assess the structural health of landing gear. The goal of this Phase II.5 AT project is the design, development and airworthiness certification testing of an On-Board Weight & Balance System (OBWBS) for the MQ-4C Triton Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) in accordance with the Technology Transition Agreement (TTA) between the acquisition program sponsor Program Management Activity (PMA) PMA-262, Triton UAV, Research Development Test & Evaluation (RDT&E) activity principal (AB2), Naval Air System Command (NAVAIR) SBIR Program Manager, and any other decision makers or funding sources in the transition path. |
| FA8649-23-P-0648 | Tailored Fabrication of AM Composite Mounting Structures | $74,962 | ENGINEERING AND SOFTWARE SYSTEM SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Low cost Unmanned Air Systems (UAS) have been determined as a significant need for the Air Force 2030 Science and Technology Strategy. To achieve this goal new means of aerospace manufacturing are needed to meet these cost and performance requirements. |
| FA8649-23-P-1033 | Ultra-Quiet, Long Endurance, Group 1 SUAS Engines | $1,237,149 | ENGINE RESEARCH ASSOCIATES INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 08/21/2023 | 05/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This direct to Phase II program is needed to take the commercial Migrating Combustion Chamber (MCC) FE-120 baseline engine and complete the development, design improvements and testing that is required for integration into a Group 1 SUAS, like the RQ-20 P |
| FA9550-23-C-0004 | Cloud Deployed Ensemble Models for Cis-lunar Space Weather Event Monitoring and Forecasting | $1,250,000 | ENSEMBLE GOVERNMENT SERVICES, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | SF224-D034 | 07/31/2023 | 07/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Solar Particle Events (SPEs) pose a life safety and mission success threat in the cis-lunar and X-GEO environments that fall under the domain of the United States Space Force, or within the USSF “sphere of interest [that extends to] 272,000 miles and beyo |
| 6SVL4-23-P-0006 | Visual Augmentation Systems (VAS) Range Finder | $174,123 | ENVISION TECHNOLOGY, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SOCOM234-003 | 09/22/2023 | 04/07/2024 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | Attollo Engineering proposes to address the need for a quick-draw, pouch-storable laser rangefinder for day and night urban use. This self-contained unit will weigh less than 18 ounces and have a total volume less than 64 cubic inches. The system will provide post-fire target assurance, showing the operator where the laser landed on the target. In Phase I Attollo will survey and evaluate all relevant component options including day and night imagers, lasers and receivers for the laser rangefinder, microdisplays and eyepieces, digital magnetic compasses and ATAK integration. After evaluating all trades, a preferred solution will be selected, and a concept system design produced. In Phase II Attollo will develop the full system design and deliver prototypes for testing. |
| FA8571-23-C-0047 | Demonstration and Validation of Brush Low Hydrogen Embrittlement (LHE) Alkaline Zn-Ni as a Cadmium (Cd) Alternative | $375,000 | ENGINEERING AND SOFTWARE SYSTEM SOLUTIONS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF172-002 | 09/06/2023 | 09/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | US Department of Defense (DOD) branches utilize steel alloys for components throughout the different weapon systems. Traditionally brush cadmium (Cd) plating is used for local touch up after Cd plating operations and during repair and overhaul. Both the |
| FA9451-23-P-A034 | In-Situ Atmospheric Path Characterization and Performance Forecasting | $128,484 | [ EO SOLUTIONS LLC] | STTR | Phase I | AF22D-T003 | 06/02/2023 | 03/05/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | EO Solutions in partnership with the Center for Directed Energy at the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) will demonstrate through modeling and simulation the concepts of using meteorological data and forecasting along with optical measurements to demonstrate the ability to forecast the optical seeing parameters predicting statistical turbulence on a longer time basis, and the actual turbulence-induced phase on a short time basis. We seek to bridge the gap between meteorological forecasting and atmospheric optics to provide a fieldable capability to both measure and predict turbulence strength on short time scales and develop the means to use this information in beam control systems. We will develop a simple to use hardware/software system enabled by machine learning algorithms to measure and predict turbulence strength and perhaps even the turbulence-induced phase error over short time scales turbulence parameters with high temporal resolution. The primary technical objectives are: (1) to develop and provide to the customer a design for a highly accurate and reliable sensing system for characterizing atmospheric propagation paths near a target of interest with high temporal resolution; (2) evaluate the performance of this system using existing simulation tools and use the results of the simulation to optimize the design; (3) develop, test, and evaluate in simulation a machine learning-based algorithm to predict the turbulence parameters using measured data at least one second forward in time from the measurement; (4) integrate outputs from the AFIT meteorological forecasting software into the machine learning algorithm in simulation do develop a methodology for using forecast data to inform the algorithms; (5) use the modeling and simulation results to develop a complete opto-mechanical design of the optical equipment, data acquisition and processing electronics, and the user software interface. The ultimate goal is to develop a system capable of measuring and predicting the Cn2 profiled along the path with high accuracy and spatial/temporal resolution, with a very simple hardware and software system. However, it is possible that this STTR is motivated by the complexity and lack of accuracy and timeliness of existing solutions. It is unlikely that this level of fidelity is needed to update the controllers for beam control and adaptive optics systems anyway, as these systems are governed by spatial moments of the turbulence profile, such as the Fried parameter, the isoplanatic angle, and the variance of the log-amplitude fluctuations. |
| FA24012390010 | 2. Real Time Imaging Sensor and Processing Chain for Tri-Int EO/IR Space System | $1,249,367 | [ EO VISTA, LLC ] | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 06/23/2023 | 09/23/2024 | Department of Defense | Traditional Space sensors provide single modality information which typically then need to be coregistered and integrated on the ground. As the time of relevance shrinks significantly and processing moves to the forward edge onboard platforms to minimize the need to downlink large amounts of information back to a ground processing node, sensors that can collect and co-register multiple modalities in real-time and generate actionable intelligence are required. EO Vista has created the above in a Tri-Int EO/IR Sensor System-on-a-Chip. The Tri-Int Sensor closes a critical capability gap by creating a compact single sensor system-on-a-chip having co-registered (1) Long-range, High-Resolution Multispectral Imagery (MSI), (2) a “spectrometer-on-a-chip” capability providing HSI imagery with real-time tipping/cueing, and (3) real-time 24-hr 3D stereo geolocation of each pixel in the scene. In addition, the System-on-a-Chip eliminates the need for large spectrometers in Hyperspectral sensors, significantly reducing the SWAP of spaceborne HSI sensors, particularly in the LWIR. This SBIR investigates and begins implementation of a commercial Digital Readout Integrated Circuit (ROIC) as part of the Tri-Int solution. We procure the ROIC and interface it to our existing processing hardware and algorithms demonstrating the suitability of the commercial components as a key contributor to generating the Tri-Int solution. | |
| FA24012390011 | 1. WFOV Imager for Global Persistent Missile and Hypersonic Vehicle Tracking and Remote Sensing from Space | $1,248,767 | [ EO VISTA, LLC ] | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO2 | 06/23/2023 | 10/23/2024 | Department of Defense | Globally persistent, timely and continuous detection and tracking of missiles and hypersonic vehicles is necessary to protect our nation from these threats. Because of advances in hypersonic vehicle technology, these threats are now more difficult to detect because of their high speed and unpredictable flight paths. To address this urgent need, the Space Development Agency (SDA) has developed a National Defense Space Architecture that incorporates a constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, each of which is equipped with a Wide Field of View Tracking Payload. This Phase II SBIR Program will build and characterize an innovative, low cost, extremely high performance Wide Field of View (WFOV) imager for missile and hypersonic vehicle tracking. The key technical objective of the effort is to demonstrate that WFOV imager delivers the performance that is both predicted and required for the missile and hypersonic vehicle tracking mission. Demonstrating that the imager achieves exceptional performance, when built using standard manufacturing techniques, and measured over the anticipated operating conditions reduces the schedule, cost, and technical risk for the future USSF/SDA Tranche-2 Tracking Layer Program. | |
| SP4701-23-P-0036 | Versatile Magnesium Recovery From Multiple Compositions | $100,000 | EOS ENERGETICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | DLA231-002 | 07/10/2023 | 01/10/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Estes Energetics will demonstrate a versatile two-step process for the extraction and separation of magnesium powder from a variety of ordnance. In the first step, a solvent-free mechanical approach is used to separate the magnesium from binders. Such an approach maximizes the applicability of the method because it doesn’t rely on specific chemical compatibilities between the separation method and the ordnance. It also reduces the risk of the magnesium or binder chemicals from reacting chemically and causing safety issues or loss of material. In the second step, one of several methods is used to separate the magnesium from other materials based on density. Air and liquid based methods will be tested. Laboratory testing will be performed for both steps to prove out our concept and reduce technical risk prior to a Phase II effort. The Estes Energetics team provides the qualifications and skills needed to research, build prototype equipment, test the process, and conduct engineering and economic analyses. We have other active research, development, and manufacturing efforts to strengthen the critical chemical industrial base and have experience working safely with energetic materials. |
| SP4701-23-C-0021 | Modular Pilot-Scale Production of Potassium Nitrate with Fully Domestic Supply Chain | $1,830,000 | EOS ENERGETICS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | DLA222-005 | 04/17/2023 | 08/17/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | Estes Energetics is standing up domestic production of potassium nitrate, a critical chemical used several different market segments, including the defense industry. In this Phase II effort Estes Energetics will develop a pilot-scale production line that can be modularly expanded to greater potassium nitrate production rates and to other critical nitrates. The Phase II effort will scale up the process developed in Phase I to a pilot scale production line capable of producing approximately 160,000-250,000 pounds per year. Our plan includes several risk management approaches. The two process steps we identify as having the greatest technical risk are the crystallization step and the chlorine gas processing step. To mitigate these risks, we will first focus our efforts on the design and scale-up of the latter half of the process (acid-based reaction of potassium hydroxide, followed by crystallization and drying). We will refer to this as Phase A. Potassium hydroxide can be purchased commercially in the US, so we can initially operate the pilot plant using potassium hydroxide as an input instead of potassium chloride. This intermediate process step also eliminates generating chlorine gas and thus the requirement for chlorine gas processing. The first technical objective is to demonstrate production of potassium nitrate from industrially relevant domestic sources of potassium chloride and nitric acid at a pilot scale (hundreds of thousands of pounds per year). The second technical objective is to ensure that the potassium nitrate being synthesized is compliant with MIL-DTL-156. The third technical objective is to demonstrate the operation of the pilot line at an operationally-relevant pace and economically viable manner, as determined by the throughput target set during the preliminary design task. Completion of these objectives will align well with the desired deliverables outlined in discussions with stakeholders. The focus in Phase II will be scaling up the Phase I process to an operationally relevant scale that can be modularly expanded to a throughput of several million pounds per year. The expected end result is a clear demonstration of a pilot-scale production process that can produce MIL-DTL-156 compliant potassium nitrate at an operationally-relevant scale and in an economically viable manner. |
| N64267-23-C-0010 | Reduced Integrated Optical Circuits (IOC) Half-wave Voltage (Vpi) for improved Size Weight and Power (SWaP) in Interferometric Fiber-Optic Gyroscopes | $139,937 | EOSPACE INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-075 | 06/27/2023 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | The objective is to develop an advanced IFOG-IOC (Interferometric Fiber-optic Gyroscope-Integrated Optical Circuit) for strategic-grade inertial sensors. The effort focus on an innovative Y-branch dual phase lithium niobate (LN) modulator IOC with a significantly reduced half-wave voltage (Vpi) and compact size with negligible impact on other IFOG performance criteria including flat frequency response behavior, polarization extinction ratio, and long-term operational stability. |
| N68335-23-C-0289 | Tunable Wideband Differential Interferometer for RF Photonic Links | $997,457 | EOSPACE INC. | STTR | Phase II | N21B-T019 | 05/31/2023 | 06/09/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | The goal is to develop a tunable differential interferometer for wideband phase-to-amplitude conversion. The device must have high-optical power handling (> 300 mW) and low loss (< 3 dB) to ensure the creation of low-noise figure, high-dynamic range RF-over-fiber links. The device should operate over a -40°C to +85°C operational temperature range, and be tunable to cover phase-to-amplitude conversion from 1 GHz on the low end to 45 GHz on the high end, with an instantaneous operational bandwidth of at least one octave, with tuning speeds over this range on the order of < 10 ms. The device should have dimensions no greater than 1 cm height, 10 cm long, and 3 cm wide. Individual devices should be designed to operate in 1 µm wavelength and 1550 nm wavelength RF over fiber links. |
| FA2384-23-P-B003 | EBAPS-Enabled Dual-Band Visualization DMARS System | $149,749 | EOTECH, LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF224-0008 | 09/20/2023 | 06/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Current dismounted Special Warrior systems for AFSOC include a PVS-14 or PVS-31 analog night vision goggle, mini thermal monoculars, a laser range finder, and TACP computer kits connected by radios to other battlefield entities. Over time, the kit has exp |
| HQ0860-23-C-7528 | Low-Cost In-Situ Rapidly Carbonized Carbon-Carbon Composite Material | $149,974 | EOS ENERGETICS, INC. | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T013 | 11/30/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Estes Energetics and Battelle Memorial Institute will apply a fast, affordable manufacturing technology—proven to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 and Manufacturing Readiness Level (MRL) 4—that manufactures a layer of carbon-carbon directly on composite structures without requiring use of an autoclave or densification process holds, resulting in reduced manufacturing time while improving component quality and allowing additional design options. This technology will drastically reduce the cost and lead times associated with carbon-carbon insulation material, thereby allowing broader use of the material across industry and supplanting less effective insulation materials in hypersonic environments. Our team’s concept and technical solution combines mature materials and processes with a novel yet proven patented manufacturing technique, selective laser heating (SLH), to manufacture insulation in-situ. A combination of laboratory testing and integrated testing using solid rocket motors provide the greatest TRL advancements. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| N68335-23-C-0288 | Fast Low Loss Uninterrupted Optical Switch | $998,265 | EOSPACE INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N212-106 | 06/14/2023 | 06/18/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Develop and package a 2 x 2 single mode optical switch operating at 1.55 µm wavelength capable of switching speeds below 1 µs with a directivity of 50 dB and an excess loss of less than 1.0 dB with a continuous intensity change from port-to-port for routing RF/analog signals via singlemode fibers to different locations within the NAVY airframe. The optical switches must be low SWaP and capable of meeting the extended temperature range requirements (-40 °C to 100 °C). |
| N68335-23-C-0260 | Widely Applicable Optical Circuit for Bidirectional Optical Sensing | $899,752 | EOSPACE INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N212-135 | 04/19/2023 | 10/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | EOSPACE proposes to develop a widely applicable supporting optical circuit in micro-optics that will provide bidirectional optical monitoring using dual photodetectors. The final circuit will be capable of surviving shock, vibration, and thermal excursions typical of aircraft or missile flight. |
| HDTRA123C0028 | SEAL: A generalized framework for deploying a secure application lifecycle management process with CI/CD | $1,099,942 | EP ANALYTICS, INC.. | SBIR | Phase II | DTRA212-004 | 08/01/2023 | 08/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Threat Reduction Agency | The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) uses High-Fidelity (HF) computer codes, many of which are legacy codes that have evolved over many years, to investigate weapon effects phenomenology and techniques for countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD). As DTRA’s reliance on HF codes for tasks critical to national security continues to increase, transitioning such codes from legacy coding practices to modern practices becomes paramount. This transition to modern practices through the use of Application Lifecycle Management (ALM) frameworks will allow HF code developers to carefully monitor and control the evolution of the codes to ensure software development best practices are adopted, the code changes are thoroughly vetted for security, accuracy, and performance before the changes make their way into the mainline (or shared source code base) and released to the customers. EP Analytics is developing SEAL (for Secure ALM), which is a framework that enables transitioning legacy codes to a modern ALM framework. The foundation of the SEAL framework has evolved from years of experience in software modernization and performance analysis of large complex HPC applications. Legacy codes come with unique dependencies, requirements, and complexities that can pose hurdles during modernization. These hurdles may be caused by technical (e.g., breaking changes during technology stack upgrade) or social (e.g., reluctance to rapid technical changes by key personnel) factors. Cognizant of these factors, a key design goal of the SEAL framework is to be extensible, technology agnostic, and incremental. In Phase I, EP Analytics successfully demonstrated the feasibility of applying the SEAL framework to develop and demonstrate a working prototype of an automated CI/CD pipeline within an application container for SHAMRC, a legacy HF DTRA code. The automation entailed developing multiple enabling software artifacts/tools to support code builds, establishing test oracles (or truth values) for existing tests, executing tests, validating the test results, analyzing code coverage, and generating reports. EP Analytics and ARA tested the pipeline on multiple HPCMP systems (Narwhal, Onyx, and Mustang) and ARA’s local development cluster. |
| HQ0860-23-C-7403 | Non-Destructive, Cryogenic 6-inch Wafer Level Screening and Measurement System of Infrared Detector materials | $1,777,726 | [ EPIR, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | MDA22-D003 | 03/20/2023 | 03/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | Sb-based III-V semiconductor Type-II superlattice (T2SL) materials with band structure-engineered device architectures are groundbreaking for infrared detectors and focal plane arrays (FPAs). T2SL FPAs have become very attractive candidates for various MDA/DOD sensor platforms including air, space, ships, and missiles. T2SL wafers, the starting materials of FPAs, are grown on large substrates using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) in commercial growth foundries. A non-destructive, quick-turn, full-wafer screening capability will help them better serve MDA’s missions. The mapping measurement of minority carrier recombination lifetimes across an entire wafer is required to evaluate the semiconductor materials used for detector fabrication and to optimize the detector fabrication processing procedures. To fulfill these requirements, EPIR proposes to build a 6-inch, 300 K to 50 K temperature, minority carrier lifetime mapping system coupled with a cut-off wavelength measurement and mapping capability. The system will measure carrier recombination lifetimes down to 5 ns and their wafer-level distribution. We plan to use a pulse semiconductor laser with a rise/decay time of less than 1 ns as an excitation source and a long-wavelength-infrared (LWIR) laser as a probe light. The laser-generated excess carriers will lead to increased free carrier absorption related to the excess carrier concentration. Free carrier absorption decay can be detected using a fast (>200 MHz ) LWIR HgCdTe detector and collected using high-speed data acquisition electronics. In addition, broadband infrared light will be introduced at the same position on the sample and measure the transmission spectra in a 2-12 µm wavelength range using an EPIR-made LWIR linear detector array that will be mounted with infrared gratings in an optical multichannel analyzer configuration to quickly determine the cut-off wavelength. A cryogenic two-dimensional scanner will be built for mapping and scanning measurements over up to 6-inch or 150 mm diameter wafers in a single run. With further maturation of the system and technology, the proposed system can be integrated into other semiconductor material evaluation and device fabrication lines, including HgCdTe and other sensors that operate below room and/or at cryogenic temperatures to conduct temperature-dependent lifetime and absorption spectroscopy measurement in a non-destructive manner. Approved for Public Release | 23-MDA-11401 (14 Mar 23) |
| N68335-23-C-0299 | MWIR TPA Notch Filter | $139,999 | [ EPIR, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | N231-065 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | EPIR proposes to develop a HgCdTe (MCT)-based notch filter that is capable of autonomously attenuating pulses from an incoming mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR) laser threat while simultaneously transmitting scene energy critical to the normal operation of the imaging system. This filter uses two-photon absorption (TPA) nonlinear response of narrow bandgap semiconductor materials to attenuate high laser photon flux. The response time of the filter is in picosecond range, and the recovery time is equally fast. The increase in size, weight and power consumption (SWaP) of the imaging system is minimal. The design of TPA filter includes a MCT-based pn junction that not only significantly increases the TPA coefficient, but also allows monitoring of the electrical impedance of the filter, so that additional protection to the imaging system (e.g. electromechanical or electrochromic shutters) can be implemented. EPIR plans to design and fabricate a TPA notch filter to block laser threats with intensity of ~MW/cm2, with no restriction on acceptance angles, no moving parts, and no polarization sensitivity. By the end of the Phase I project, detailed design along with preliminary experimental characterization results will be delivered. |
| 140D0423C0114 | AlphaPup: Trusted Combat Autonomy with Tactical AI | $1,800,000 | EPISYS SCIENCE INC | SBIR | Phase II | AF221-DCSO1 | 08/24/2023 | 08/23/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Significant technical challenges exist in the deployment of tactical autonomy for air combat and training applications. Transition efforts are developing comprehensive frameworks and autonomy infrastructure, but still face limitations in tactical performance on these systems. EpiSci’s AlphaPup program with Tactical AI will focus on ADAIR high-performance training, near-term missions such as cruise missile defense (CMD) and an increased focus on effective integration of autonomy with human operators in situations of varying risk and complexity address critical and complimentary technical and cultural challenges. It is a modular multiplatform autonomy suite that employs architecture which allows seamless integration of rule-based and expert defined behaviors as well as modern machine learning modules. Explicit control over maneuver, safety and weapon employment is provided in full compliance with applicable ethical and regulatory standards. Modules are designed to encapsulate platform and mission specifics in a hierarchical structure using open architecture principles, allowing rapid adaptation to new platforms, payloads and control systems while rapidly incorporating expert-designed team behaviors and responding efficiently to operator feedback. |
| W51701-23-C-0197 | Real-Time Processing and Multiple Signal Classification (RAP-MUSIC) of a Wide RF Spectrum | $1,249,953 | EPISYS SCIENCE INC | SBIR | Phase II | A214-049 | 09/08/2023 | 03/11/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| W911NF-23-P-0015 | Monolithic Integrated High performance SiGeSn Imaging Sensor | $250,000 | [ EPITAXIAL LABORATORY INC] | STTR | Phase I | OSD22B-003 | 02/01/2023 | 03/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Office of the Secretary of Defense | This proposal describes development of a scalable processes compatible with standard CMOS BEOL processes for fabrication of monolithically integrated image sensors operating between 2 and 5 microns. In Phase I, we will demonstrate the effectiveness of the process for dramatically improving quality of the materials. High EQE, low noise, and megapixel (1024x1024) image sensors will be fabricated in Phase II by optimizing processes developed during Phase I. |
| FA8650-23-P-1079 | Development of Integrated Infrared Focal Plane Arrays on Si | $150,000 | [ EPITAXIAL LABORATORY INC] | STTR | Phase I | AF22A-T006 | 01/06/2023 | 08/31/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This proposal describes the development of a process to synthesize thick (>500 nm) GeSn materials on a template to be used to fabricate monolithically integrated FPAs (with CMOS ROICs) on Si with low defect density, low residual doping, and high EQE. In phase I, we will demonstrate synthesis of GeSn materials and fabricate simple photodiode to verify materials quality improvements. We also demonstrate materials quality improvement through the evidence of improved optical absorption, IR emission and x-ray rocking curve. In phase II, we will optimize the process and fabricate monolithically integrated FPAs operating at 2 micron or longer wavelengths with EQE>20%, dark current density < 1 µA/cm2 |
| N68936-23-C-0028 | Multimode IR/RF Surrogate Seeker | $139,996 | EPISENSORS INC | SBIR | Phase I | N232-088 | 09/18/2023 | 03/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | A passive multimode IR and RF sensor fusion platform in a missile seeker guidance system would greatly benefit a missile’s capabilities in tracking and locking to a target. The strengths of RF and IR somewhat complement each other and the use of both can greatly increase the system’s ability to react to current countermeasures by independently selecting a disaffected sensor’s data to follow. The sensor fusion lends to increased accuracy in cluttered and/or low signal environments by giving two sources of data to parse which increases confidence in target acquisition and tracking. This proposal seeks to build a digital system to mix passive RF with the acquisition of such signals through commercially available software defined radio system that will feed into a pre-existing IR image processing core. The hardware capabilities will handle the real-time digitization and processing of both signals with edge computational abilities to make an intelligent system that can discern the detection and tracking of a target in a multimode passive IR/RF system. |
| FA8650-23-P-6476 | Development of a High Fidelity DoD 5th Percentile Female Finite Element Model | $149,857 | EPITOME RESEARCH AND INNOVATIONS INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AF221-0017 | 01/04/2023 | 09/11/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The project focuses on the development of a nonlinear whole-body FE model of a DoD-defined 5th percentile female. Publicly available CAD/FEM models previously developed in the context of automotive industry are repurposed for use in the aerospace context. The deliverable is a fully functional version of the FE model is able to predict gross kinematic response during loading events such as aircraft hard landings, crash, and occupant ejections. |
| FA8750-23-C-B013 | Smart Contracts For Publicly Available Information (PAI) Collection Management | $1,249,855 | EPOCHGEO LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AF221-0031 | 09/28/2023 | 11/27/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Publicly Available Information (PAI) data sources are becoming increasingly ubiquitous in facilitating discovery of events. Currently, the tipping and cueing processes of corroborating the discovered events with traditional intelligence sources are under |
| W5170123C0029 | Explainable AI Through UI/UX | $247,459 | EPOCHGEO LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A224-022 | 02/08/2023 | 08/21/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0386 | Compact Condensers Enabled by Print-to-Cast Additive Manufacturing | $97,607 | [ ERG Aerospace Corporation] | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T024 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | High power electronics are being increasingly limited by conventional single-phase thermal management technologies. Refrigerant two-phase cooling presents a significant opportunity for thermal management of high-power electronics. While recent advances in cold plates and evaporators have been demonstrated in high heat flux applications, the condenser-side of the two-phase coolant loop has not kept pace. Condensers are often the largest component in a two-phase cooling system and optimization of compact condensers by additive manufacturing (AM) are constrained by limitations in material space, expensive and often extensive post-processing, and minute changes in process parameters having macroscopic impacts on properties leading to long-term durability concerns. For decades, open celled metal foams have been implemented in heat exchangers and cold plates with significant SWaP improvements. Open celled metal foams are excellent extended surfaces for heat transfer augmentation, providing high surface area and enhanced mixing, along with unique durability and shape packaging flexibility advantages over fins. ERG’s novel print-to-cast AM-enabled manufacturing technique allows the complexity of AM designs without the limitations; no restrictions in alloy space (Al 6000 series, pure Cu, etc.), fewer process parameters but smaller feature sizes, low cost, and minimal post-processing. Heat transfer surfaces will be optimized by selection of ideal lattice types and with spatially varied ligaments, a novel area of AM-designed porous structures. The present effort will demonstrate innovative compact condenser designs with ERG’s novel AM-designed porous structures featuring improved thermal performance, optimal material selection, complete control over parameter and properties, and reduced post-processing and infrastructure cost. |
| W51701-23-C-0235 | HOT Dual-Band (eSWIR/MWIR) T2SL Camera | $249,979 | EPISENSORS INC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-013 | 08/23/2023 | 11/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA8649-23-P-0303 | Ultra-Low Power Timing Circuit for Air Force Applications | $74,951 | ESC AEROSPACE US, INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/09/2022 | 02/09/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Ultra-Low Power Timing Circuit (ecULP-TCTM) At the center of most operational systems is TIME. Time enables us to communicate, to synchronize, to control, and to position. An accurate, reliable, low size, weight and power timing source is critical to our esc Aerospace NavXTMsolution for accurate and reliable PNT in total GPS denial, but it is equally critical in a vast number of other military and commercial applications including communications, targeting, IoT, etc. Crystal Oscillators continue to be the de facto standard for timing. They are very affordable, small, and low power consumers. However, as technologies advance, and GPS signals are threatened, there is more and more demand for increased timing circuit performance. New technologies have been developed that provide superior performance, but at a significant cost. At the highest end are Chip Scale Atomic Clocks. Oven and Temperature Controlled Crystal Oscillators provide performance improvements but are larger power consumers. Our escULP-TCTM is a circuitry-based approach (vs. materials) that bridges the gap between XOs and CSACs. escULP-TCTM target performance: .1 ppm•.1-1 μW. When integrated into our NavXTM PNT solution, this performance will enable >24hr holdover time and positional accuracy in total GPS denial. Most importantly, without adding any additional power. Our current Phase II SBIR project has develop a prototype chip that exceeds our performance objectives. See 100 sec video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MELtysgoa08 |
| HQ072723P0032 | High-G Clock Source | $196,821 | ESC AEROSPACE US, INC | SBIR | Phase I | DMEA231-002 | 08/22/2023 | 02/22/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Microelectronics Activity | At the center of most operational systems is TIME. Time enables us to communicate, to synchronize, to control, and to position. An accurate, reliable, low size, weight and power timing source is critical to our esc Aerospace PNT solution NavXTM for accurate and reliable PNT in total GPS denial. However, it is equally critical in a vast number of military and commercial applications. Historically, Ceramic Resonators were low cost, but with a large physical footprint, which were acceptable for large munition HOB sensors. However, as fuzing technology is being applied to smaller munitions, the Ceramic Resonators are too large to accommodate the Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C) requirements, while low cost crystal oscillators cannot meet the high-G rating of fuzing. Current applications show timing sources surviving peak acceleration forces of up to 65 kG for about 100µs, after that the acceleration tails off exponentially. Having a clock source surviving up to 100 kG is desired. The sensitivity of quartz crystal oscillators to acceleration has been well documented. Research on crystal oscillators has resulted in a quartz crystal oscillator that exhibited G-sensitivity (change in frequency resulting in acceleration force) of 2E-9/g. Also, research on different MEMS oscillators have also shown low-G sensitivity. However, this topic requires development to be done on survival shock. In this project, we propose to develop an integrated micro-scale sized resonator and oscillator solution that can tolerate up to 120 kG force while maintaining high clock accuracy. The resonator design will be carried out using miniaturized quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) architecture with higher tolerance to force and pressure. The oscillator design will be carried out using robust subthreshold analog circuit design technique to reduce the size and power consumption of the oscillator. With this technique we anticipate that the power consumption of the oscillator will be less than 100µW or 0.1mW. Our solution will also include an on-chip oscillator (integrated on a CMOS chip) with temperature variation of 10ppm/oC, that can lock to the reference frequency provided by the QCM oscillator. The on-chip oscillator can provide an optional on-chip clock source during events of high force. Owing to the design being integrated on-chip, it will not vary due to force. |
| W15QKN-23-P-0035 | Target on the Move and Dynamic Retargeting for Enhanced Lethality | $111,283 | ESC AEROSPACE US, INC | SBIR | Phase I | A22-001 | 08/02/2023 | 01/29/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Our proposed technology will allow reprioritization of targets, preserve concealment of the munition in a GPS-denied environment, and allow for information fusion between multiple sensors and databases to enable geolocation for fire control and battle management systems in multiple engagement scenarios from drone swarms, vehicles, and maritime vessels in a kill-chain. The technology will be designed to allow dynamic retargeting in multiple denied operational environments from a vehicle mounted or Forward Operating Base (FOB) deployed system. esc Aerospace has been developing a concept for Visual Aided PNT and Enhanced Situational Awareness. This includes the integration of existing high TRL components to enable: Operations in total GPS denial Real-Time terrain mapping Applied AI for autonomous object ID, positioning and tracking Information interoperability Secure communications with other data sources (i.e. transnational targeting information, intelligence targeting information, Satellite/Airborne Imagery, etc.) Secure integration with other DOD/IC Community Compliance with open systems standards (MOSA) to enable “plug and play” integration Our Low Size, Weight and Power and cost (SWaP-C) enables us to meet growing demand in markets that are currently underserved (including small UAS, personal (dismounted), precision weapons, etc.). Our robust technology roadmap has been designed to continuously add reliability/accuracy for our existing customers and additional commercial/government markets. We have been successfully adding the use of LEO satellite signals (under AF LCMC Phase II SBIR), Visual Aided PNT through an AFWERX SBIR co-sponsored by the Air Force and the Army, Network Assisted PNT (Army Phase 1 SBIR) to enable accurate PNT in total GPS denial. Additionally, we are currently working to develop a chip size Ultra-Low Power Timing Circuit that is a critical technology enabler for PNT and many other applications that require accurate time when GPS is not available (secure communications, monitoring, cyber security, IoT, edge computing, etc.) With our technology partners (i.e. Lockheed Martin and Photon-X) our concept enables: Passive targeting/ranging that use COTS polarized light sensors Shape-based 3D-AI solutions for ISR&T including passive identification, tracking, and ranging, prioritization algorithms including swarms, and extraction of targets from cluttered backgrounds. Highly scalable, low SWaP, near IR visible and LWIR shape and surface machine vision, learning, and identification algorithms which are versatile in identifying, tracking, and ranging objects, people, and defects Vision-based positioning for aircraft - Simultaneous Localization & Mapping (SLAM) engine Mapping products and visualization in real-time as you fly |
| W51701-23-C-0207 | Production of Lithium Salts for Li ion Batteries Using Thermal and Cyclonic Brine Concentration Espiku LLC | $1,800,000 | ESPIKU INC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-016 | 09/11/2023 | 03/20/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0788 | ATO Technical Control Monitoring | $74,810 | ESSENDIS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Compli.ai platform has been developed to alleviate and expedite the cybersecurity compliance and ATO process for all levels of user. Compli.ai is a SaaS platform developed using the .NET framework and incorporating the Open Source Control Assessment L |
| FA8649-23-P-0538 | Low-Cost All-Weather Flight Line Efficiency with Essential Aero Ramp Runner | $1,082,446 | ESSENTIAL AERO LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/03/2023 | 04/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Airmen maintain F-35’s and other USAF aircraft on a ramp thousands of feet away – up to 10 minutes each way –from the supply warehouses and centralized (specialty) toolkits, ferrying tools and parts as needed. The Maintainer must anticipate all possible scenarios at each departure from the air shop to the ramp for the maintenance task. This requires significant planning (time), a high level of parts/tools duplication (money) across Maintainers and has not proven to eliminate trips back to the air shop or warehouse (manpower). Each time the Airman leaves the aircraft ramp to retrieve a needed item, all parts and tools must be inventoried, logged, and locked. On average, this can take approximately 15 minutes prior to even leaving the aircraft. Every. Single. Time. The Essential Aero Ramp Runner eliminates trips to the warehouse for supplies. The Ramp Runner brings the aircraft and warehouse closer together. A completely automated industrial grade robot, the Ramp Runner can be programmed to deliver tools and aircraft parts to mechanics and other personnel on the aircraft ramp. Designed to operate in all weather conditions, it can carry 100 lbs. and tow 200 lbs., and operate for 15 hours on a single charge. The Ramp Runner can be outfitted with locked and/or open bins, and a trailer for oversized heavier parts or tool chests, enabling a mechanic to continue working without distraction. Our solution can eliminate unanticipated trips to the warehouse, keeping valued Airmen on task for the entirety of a maintenance event. Aircraft maintenance is complete in less time. As the DoD takes a critical look at Defense spending for potential conflicts, USAF aircraft are mission-ready in less time with more than $10 million saved by Luke AFB annually. If deployed system-wide, the Ramp Runner could save the USAF $100’s of millions annually. |
| FA8649-23-P-0681 | Autonomous FOD Detection System | $69,967 | ESSENTIAL AERO LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Foreign Object Debris (FOD) accounts for $90M in aircraft damage each year for the US Military, not to mention the potential to take aviators’ lives in catastrophic events. To mitigate the instances of FOD, hundreds of personnel line up to perform daily F |
| HT9425-23-C-0024 | Lightweight Electroadhesive Exotendon (LEET) for Head and Neck Protection at High G Loading | $1,095,266 | ESTAT ACTUATION INC | SBIR | Phase II | DHA213-001 | 04/07/2023 | 08/16/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | This Phase II proposal builds on the successful outcomes of our Phase I project, Lightweight Electroadhesive Exotendon (LEET) for Head and Neck Protection (Contract Agreement # W81XWH22P0039), which focused on the development of exotendon prototypes for reducing acute and chronic neck injury for pilots using helmet mounted equipment. These novel devices use electroadhesive clutches to rapidly transition from a protective mode capable of supporting large inertial loads to a free motion mode which provides full range of motion and freedom of movement to pilots. The prototypes demonstrated a holding force exceeding 134 N, the force needed to attenuate neck loading by 25% or more during a 12-G vertical maneuver. Prototype clutches have undergone more than 500 cycles of use without failure of the electroadhesive materials and have been integrated into a helmet and harness. Lastly, we shaped our Phase II proposal based on the results of 26 customer discovery interviews which revealed the needs of pilots and stakeholders from five branches of the Human Systems Directorate (HSD). Our Phase II effort will transition our TRL3 prototypes to TRL6 and establish a Phase III transition plan. Our four objectives are: evaluation of airworthiness, transitioning to a standalone LEET system, optimization of the LEET control approach, and the development of a Phase III transition strategy. These objectives will be achieved by revising the Phase I prototypes to make them more robust to environmental risk factors. Developing a mobile power and control unit will transition our benchtop prototypes to standalone units. Next, we will subject these prototypes to standard tests of common risk factors including EMI/EMC, temperature, humidity, salt spray, vibration, rapid decompression, and explosive atmosphere. This will demonstrate that the LEET system can withstand the harsh conditions often encountered by Aircrew Flight Equipment (AFE). We will optimize the LEET control strategy and mounting positions of the exotendons via biomechanical simulations in OpenSim. This work will culminate in the completion of four LEET prototypes for manikin testing at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. This testing will demonstrate the ability of the LEET system to provide protection against neck injury. Lastly, we will construct our Phase III transition plan by developing a relationship with an industry partner. It is our goal to not only demonstrate the capability of our system, but also have a framework in place to transition the resulting TRL6 prototypes to standard Aircrew Flight Equipment. |
| FA8649-23-P-0439 | Unified All-Domain Data Integration Services (UADDIS) supporting Joint All-Domain Command & Control (JADC2) / Advanced Battle Management Systems (ABMS) | $1,249,998 | ETC INTERNATIONAL, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/06/2023 | 11/06/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Unified All-Domain Data Integration Service (UADDIS) project is a research & development (R&D) effort to adapt two commercial software products called COMET Unified Integration Services Peer (UNISP™) and Digital Ingestion Engine (DigE) to address the |
| FA8649-23-P-0873 | Metal Foam Shielding for Hypervelocity Impact | $74,530 | [ ERG Aerospace Corporation] | STTR | Phase I | AFX23D-TCSO1 | 05/11/2023 | 08/11/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Orbital debris is an increasing hazard for spacecraft, creating a need for improved hypervelocity impact (HVI) shielding to protect satellites and manned missions. Current shielding options either offer excellent protection with impractical implementation |
| N68335-23-C-0570 | Enhanced Aircraft Non-Cooperative Target Recognition | $139,696 | ETEGENT TECHNOLOGIES, LTD. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-021 | 06/29/2023 | 01/02/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | This proposal outlines tasks and deliverables in order to assess the usefulness of full-polarization scattering matrices to discriminate aircraft with similar physical characteristics. Specifically, this work will address air-to-air collection scenarios where the target of interest is non-cooperative. The ability to collect full-polarization returns in air-to-air systems is a recent advancement. Full-polarization scattering matrices offer more information, and potentially more discriminatory information to improve non-cooperative target recognition (NCTR) capabilities. This effort will compare the discriminatory capabilities of traditional single-polarization scattering matrices to full-polarization scattering matrices to understand when full-polarization can improve performance, as well as any computational resource trade-offs associated with leveraging full-polarization over single-polarization. Given that the targets of interest will be non-cooperative and non-stable, signatures of the targets will be generated with inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) simulation code. In addition to an empirical study on the discriminatory benefit of full-polarization scattering matrices, code and data products will be developed in order to enable reproducibility of the results as well as enable future work. |
| HDTRA123C0027 | Synthetic Aperture Radar(SAR) Image Generation Data Augmentation | $1,079,954 | ETEGENT TECHNOLOGIES, LTD. | STTR | Phase II | DTRA21B-001 | 09/09/2023 | 09/24/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Threat Reduction Agency | Machine learning algorithms have demonstrated performance on par with or superior to human analysts on large datasets when sufficient training data is available. For military applications obtaining sufficient, truthed data is always a challenge. Three approaches have been used for measured data collections to support sensor exploitation programs: coordinated collections, turntable measurements and scaled model collections. However, these collections have limited availability of relevant targets of interest and the operating conditions over which they are collected are often not meaningfully representative of deployed environments. Our team has delivered scalable synthetic generation pipelines in support of multiple Department of Defense and Intelligence Community programs. In the Phase I proof of concept effort, we demonstrated the benefits of including synthetic foliage models to train machine learning algorithms. In this proposed Phase II effort, we will extend this capability, making it computationally tractable via parametric modeling of the foliage-induced back scatter and forward scatter and incorporating these models into our current synthetic pipeline. This comprehensive tool suite will address the challenge of data availability and provide capability to develop robust inference models. |
| FA8650-23-P-1012 | Multi-Function AESA and SRM System Engineering | $149,947 | ETHER FORM INCORPORATED` | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0016 | 02/23/2023 | 06/23/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Digital Multi-Function AESAs (MFAs) enable new capabilities for US Air Force (USAF) platforms using digital and hybrid digital/analog arrays that facilitate rapid beam steering, beamforming, multi-beam support and digital interfaces to capabilities (e.g., |
| FA9451-23-P-A028 | A Deployable 5-15MeV High Current X-band Accelerator System | $149,983 | EUCLID BEAMLABS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF224-0004 | 04/04/2023 | 01/04/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | A robust medical or industrial RF linear accelerator demands a high RF-to-beam efficiency due to the high cost of RF power. A high shunt impedance of the accelerator is needed to boost the RF-to-beam efficiency. One of the most sensitive parameters that a |
| FA8649-23-P-0736 | Networked Resupply sUAS with Autonomous Recharging | $74,997 | EVE VEHICLES CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/02/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The eve Vehicles team has developed an eVTOL (electronic vertical take-off and landing) tail-sitter drone with the ability to perch and land on various terrain and exist in its environment until needed. The product vision is to have a drone leave on a M |
| FA8649-23-P-0993 | Collision Prevention via Automated Stopping of 3D Ground Movement Automation System | $74,598 | [ EVITADO USA LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | EVITADO proposes a feasibility study for an Automated Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) concept that will lay the groundwork for future developments in order to enable semi-autonomous and eventually fully autonomous towing operations of aircraft for an int |
| FA8649-23-P-0992 | Improved Situational Awareness for LiDAR-Based Aircraft Towing through Data Analytics and UX Excellence | $74,598 | [ EVITADO USA LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | EVITADO proposes researching and developing adaptations to the tablet user interface (UI) of its LiDAR towing collision detection system. The UI adaptations will comprise a novel tool for risk assessment which uses data collected by the LiDAR sensor syste |
| FA8649-23-P-0502 | COMBAT: Complex Emitter Behavior Tracking with Machine Learning | $1,250,000 | EPISYS SCIENCE INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/09/2023 | 11/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | While the USAF fields the world’s premier air dominance systems, such as the F-22, F-35, and future next-generation air dominance (NGAD) family of systems, all are reliant on effective information superiority and decision-making to support and enable thei |
| FA8649-23-P-0403 | Improving the Distribution and Consumption of Space Force Doctrine through Interactive Audio | $74,975 | EX-IQ, INC. | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/07/2022 | 02/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | INFLO converts digital documents to audio that professionals can consume and control as if they had a keyboard and a mouse, hands and screen free. Now professionals can use voice to highlight, cut and paste, tag, review key points and collaborate wherever and whenever they so choose. All work is synced to the desktop and Alexa, making INFLO the world’s most powerful learning and productivity ecosystem. The INFLO platform provides powerful analytics to understand content consumption and engagement. It is critical for the United States Space Force to develop and distribute its own service and domain specific doctrine that communicates how it is organized, its operational best practices, and guiding principles. The consumption and retention of this information by Guardians will be critical to the overall success of the USSF. Making this doctrine available in interactive audio opens a whole new world of opportunity for communicating and educating Guardians. Top-tier global banks Morgan Stanley and J.P. Morgan are using INFLO’s proprietary interactive audio to drive higher engagement with their research content. The annual contract value for each account is greater than $100K. Morgan Stanley has reached 46 thousand monthly active users and continues to grow at a rapid pace. The addition of foreign languages is helping drive accelerated growth. INFLO has raised $5 million dollars to date. Investors include Amazon’s Alexa Fund, Arizona State University, Techstars, Conrex LLC, The Connor Group, and senior financial services executives. INFLO’s current customers include Morgan Stanley and JP Morgan. INFLO is working with the University of Texas’s Texas Venture Labs to accelerate the adoption of INFLO technology in the financial services sector. Amazon is an INFLO investor and is working with the team to release the INFLO platform on the AWS marketplace, which serves over 310,000 companies globally. The INFLO platform’s architecture, security, reliability and performance passed rigorous testing by Morgan Stanley, J.P. Morgan and Amazon. Seattle-based INFLO engineers work directly with Amazon and AWS engineers to continually improve the platform’s speed, security and scalability. INFLO has strong corporate investors with Amazon, TechStars, and Arizona State University. INFLO has a strategic partnership with AWS to deliver custom voices for text to audio publishing. Our proprietary text to speech technology was deemed best in class by leading investment banks and financial service firms. |
| FA8649-23-P-0505 | AFROTC Integrated Learning Tool for Students and Cadre | $1,249,916 | EX-IQ, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/14/2023 | 06/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force is confronting a competitive international environment where the ability to learn and process information quickly is central to establishing and retaining competitive advantages. The 2015 National Defense Strategy states that “the creativity |
| N68335-23-C-0371 | Express Forensic Memory | $999,879 | EXCELLERIX, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N221-071 | 08/23/2023 | 08/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Excellerix proposes to build, test, and demonstrate a forensic memory solution, called EXFORM, exceeding the required threshold performance in delay and data throughput. By the end of Phase I Base, EXFORM was built and comprehensively tested with less than 1e-12 bit-error rate and data rates up to 200 Gbps. In Phase II we will build, demonstrate and deliver EXFORM as a rugged unit ready for Naval field applications. |
| 140D0423C0037 | Passive Acoustic Subwavelength Resonator (PASR) - Phase II | $1,464,534 | [www.excetinc.com EXCET INC] | SBIR | Phase II | HR0011SB20224-03 | 02/01/2023 | 02/05/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | We propose a Phase II program to continue the development of a Passive Acoustic Subwavelength Resonator (PASR) intended for deployment in undersea environments. The PASR concept is designed to be deeply subwavelength and passively scatter acoustic fields at resonance within a tunable spectral band, potentially with tailored directivity. The PASR functional components are stiff compared to water and are expected to preserve their functionality over a range of ocean depths. Phase II will provide a reduction to practice of the PASR concept using acoustic target scattering and pressure testing of at-scale prototypes submerged underwater. Phase II deliverables will include design optimization tools, experimental demonstrations of tunable subwavelength resonance from an object a tenth of a wavelength in size or less, and paradigms for understanding directional scattering form subwavelength acousto-elastic components. Potential applications include vector sensing, low-power acoustic communication nodes, and enhanced scattering directivity useful for the collimation of projected sound. |
| FA9453-23-C-A026 | HEADS (High-Rate Event-Based Attitude Determination System) | $149,918 | EXOANALYTIC SOLUTIONS INC | SBIR | Phase I | AF222-0010 | 12/12/2022 | 09/25/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | There is a need for low cost, low SWAP, high accuracy, continuous attitude determination for space vehicles. HEADS will enable the by utilizing COTS event cameras and ExoAnalytic Solutions, Inc.’s extensive experience. In Phase I, HEADS will determine the feasibility of an event-based star tracker. HEADS will address the need for attitude determination solutions in by leveraging the tracking and star registration experience of ExoAnalytic Solutions, Inc. and the unique capabilities of event cameras. |
| N68936-23-C-0029 | Radio Frequency and Infrared Dual-Mode Seeker (RAIDS) | $139,925 | EXOANALYTIC SOLUTIONS INC | SBIR | Phase I | N232-088 | 09/18/2023 | 03/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Different classes of Naval weapon systems have historically employed either radiofrequency (RF) or infrared (IR) seekers for target acquisition and tracking, with IR seekers typically being employed on shorter-range weapon systems and RF seekers on longer range weapons. As technical and tactical countermeasures are developed and employed, missile seeker systems must be responsive to remain effective. A dual-mode seeker taking advantage of both IR and passive RF phenomenology will have the benefits of both techniques while ideally remaining robust against single phenomenology countermeasures. In the RAIDS effort, ExoAnalytic Solutions (Exo) together with Technology Service Corporation (TSC) will take advantage of previous work experience in IR imaging and passive RF sensors and seekers to create a design of a new seeker system that will use the benefits of both phenomenology to close kill chains. Our team will use Exo’s existing experience in EO/IR image processing, and TSC’s experience in RF signal processing, to design an architecture that will process both IR and RF data. RF target detections and IR detections will be converted into target tracks to form an integrated track picture. The IR images will be used to estimate object position with sub-pixel precision. Exo has fielded, in the area of space domain awareness, a worldwide EO sensor network, and has many years of experience processing EO imagery in visible and multiple IR bands. With the help of TSC’s extensive experience with rapid development, integration, and test of RF sensors on a variety of platforms including, GMLR, AI3, Stinger, 40mm grenades, and lethal UAS, our team will design and develop a dual mode seeker that utilizes the benefits of both passive RF and IR sensors. |
| FA8649-23-P-0545 | Development of a Supersonic Next Gen Aerial Target UAV Concept | $1,249,999 | EXOSONIC, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/06/2023 | 11/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Next Generation Aerial Target (NGAT) air vehicle must be capable of matching the performance of 5th generation threat aircraft in order to allow air-to-air weapons to be developed and matured to counter those threats. To accomplish this, the NGAT must |
| FA8750-23-C-0028 | Rapid Anomaly Detection in Images of Unresolved Space Objects (RADIUS) | $149,996 | EXOANALYTIC SOLUTIONS INC | SBIR | Phase I | SF224-0001 | 03/20/2023 | 12/20/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In the RADIUS effort, ExoAnalytic Solutions (‘Exo’) will take advantage of our previous work in identification of anomalies in imagery. The ExoAnalytic Global Telescope Network (EGTN) is a global network of over 300 telescopes that operate 24/7, collectin |
| W51701-23-C-0198 | Army SEAMS Phase II | $1,249,880 | EXPEDITION TECHNOLOGY, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A214-049 | 08/30/2023 | 03/11/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| N68335-23-C-0562 | ONR OSIRIS Phase II | $999,951 | EXPEDITION TECHNOLOGY, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N221-073 | 08/03/2023 | 08/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Expedition Technology, Inc. (EXP) is developing Osiris, a modular suite of complementary radio frequency (RF) spectrum awareness applications that simplify and accelerate the way electronic systems adapt to novel, threatening and evolving uses of spectrum. Osiris embodies a new approach to spectrum sensing and signal processing based as much on learning as from expert engineering. This approach enables powerful new ways to monitor and make sense of congested spectrum, identify anomalous activity, authenticate individual emitters, form high-level emitter associations, adapt to environment changes, empower users who may not possess detailed signal knowledge or expertise, and visualize spectrum activity. Osiris is composed of several underlying artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML) algorithms developed under the DARPA RF Machine Learning Systems (RFMLS) program. For users of signal intelligence and electronic support systems, Osiris detects and characterizes important and anomalous spectrum events and activities by identifying and rapidly learning new signal types and spectrum use patterns – empowering operators and analysts to parse congested but otherwise normal spectrum behaviors quickly and efficiently, in search of potential threats and important signals of interest. Agile, software defined radios that can rapidly change their frequencies and waveforms challenge traditional signal collectors that are commonly library based and tasked to search for known signals of interest. Incorporating a learned approach allows signal detectors to be derived automatically from collected signal examples, mitigating the need for experts to reverse engineer a signal’s structure and tailor a custom detector. When trained in the context of uninteresting “background” signals, learned signal detectors will simultaneously reject signals not of interest. This prevents unimportant signals from passing to downstream processing layers where they are typically processed in the same way important signals are, thereby reducing computation overhead. The expressive power of learned detectors can discriminate complex spectrum activity composed of many individual emitters and waveform types, with or without time dependencies, to efficiently detect previously unseen, anomalous signals and activities – an ability traditional RF sensors do not possess. This new ability readily supports learning RF patterns of life and emitter behaviors, providing entirely new intelligence data products and insights. |
| N6833523C0329 | Few-shot Object detection via Reinforcement Control of Image Simulation (FORCIS) | $1,296,133 | EXPEDITION TECHNOLOGY, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | SCO182-006 | 05/30/2023 | 11/30/2024 | Department of Defense | Office of the Secretary of Defense | This Phase 2 Enhancement seeks to improve the quality of synthetic data to be representative of real data (using whatever criteria the algorithm deems important for detect, classify, and track of an object of interest at rest and/or in motion) and to maximize algorithm performance such that when the algorithm is introduced to real data with a real object of interest in its real environment, the algorithm is able to perform equally as well as it did with synthetic data. Optionally, the additional real-world data collection will be performed in diverse representative conditions to assist in training of background imagery. |
| N68335-23-C-0370 | ONR Forensic Memory System (FMS) Phase II | $998,570 | EXPEDITION TECHNOLOGY, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | N221-071 | 09/20/2023 | 09/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Forensic Memory System (FMS) addresses a critical need for wideband sensor systems. Wideband digitizers produce copious data samples that need considerable interface bandwidth to transport and distribute real-time data to heterogeneous compute resources performing signal analysis. The initial signal analysis component, signal detection for example, will indicate a signal of interest (SOI) is present, but further actions are required to produce detailed signal analysis results. The need to perform subsequent processing necessitates the recovery of wideband data samples associated with the detected signal before, during and after its presence. The task of managing and distributing the high data volume of wideband systems is addressed by the focused FMS subsystem that time indexes and stores the incoming data samples and later recovers data segments corresponding to SOI activity. An embedded circular buffer approach enables a wideband detection system to cue on specific events and direct data to additional processing specific to the signals and events of interest. An efficiently managed FPGA based buffering subsystem can be tailored to the targeted signal parameters, scenarios, and environments while having reasonable cost, hardware, and power demands. The FMS system utilizes High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) to provide extremely high data rates, and the FPGA packaging allows the insertion into existing hardware servers. FMS is unique in that it can offer data recovery as a service to multiple downstream consumers and it separates the detection and data recovery functions. Multiple detection functions can operate on a wideband or derived data stream, but they don’t need to duplicate the buffering and data management functions. In the past capabilities like FMS existed as an element of stove-piped systems where a rigid service is not exposed to third party DSP utilities. In addition, FMS adds the flexibility of supporting a range of data rates, data structures, and dimensions. For example, FMS could store raw samples or samples that have been produced by a Polyphase Channelizer. FMS has a significant impact in reducing the downstream processing requirements in that only data samples corresponding to signal activity are processed. In a sparse wideband signal environment there can be significant reductions in the required hardware capacity for the mission. FMS will be a service that can be incorporated into an existing sensor server-based systems by adding an FPGA card and using the services APIs provided. ??????? |
| FA8649-23-P-1111 | Anomaly Detection Actively ProTecting-Securiy (ADAPT-Security) | $1,201,378 | [ EXPLORATION INSTITUTE LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/27/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | A software package known as Anomaly Detection Actively ProTecting-Security (ADAPT-Security) is proposed to detect anomalies in multivariate time series and perform diagnostics for observed anomalous patterns. The algorithms are designed to be implementabl |
| FA8649-23-P-0573 | Mechanical System for use with Super-Heavy Launch Vehicles for Autonomous Capture and Acquisition (ACQR) of Targets of up to 30m in diameter | $1,694,109 | EXPLORATION LABORATORIES LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO1 | 03/03/2023 | 09/06/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As the future space economy develops, Rendezvous Proximity Operations (RPO) with non-cooperative “objects of interest” will become standard occurrences. They will include scientific research, planetary defense and resource extraction for space activity as |
| FA8649-23-P-0820 | Software and Sensor System for Autonomous Rendezvous Adaptive Docking Solution “ARADS” | $74,989 | EXPLORATION LABORATORIES LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/27/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | ExLabs is developing its Arachne system as the next generation of spacecraft for RPO capture and redirection mission profiles for LEO debris mitigation, defense purposes, and station keeping, with long term pursuit of NEO Asteroid capture for return to Lu |
| FA8649-23-P-1054 | A Software Platform Unlocks Affordable Air Taxis | $1,249,929 | EZ AEROSPACE INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 07/20/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | On any given day, roughly 1,200 USAF aircraft are grounded and waiting for a part to arrive before they can be fixed; they are referred to as MICAPs (mission impaired capability awaiting parts) and they are one of the AF’s biggest problems. The average tu |
| HT9425-23-C-0030 | Multi-User, Reliable Hearing Protection Fit Test System with Integrated Education | $1,099,473 | Edare LLC | SBIR | Phase II | DHA221-002 | 04/25/2023 | 08/27/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Hearing is important to our physical and mental health. Within the Department of Defense (DOD), more than 200,000 service members have hearing impairment and close to 500,000 Veterans receive compensation for service-connected hearing loss. To protect personnel from hearing loss, DOD Instruction 6055.12 establishes requirements for Hearing Conservation Programs (HCPs). Under 6055.12, each DOD Component must implement an HCP that provides hearing protection devices (HPDs) to individuals exposed to hazardous noise. Furthermore, anyone who experiences a significant threshold shift is required to have their hearing protector fit reevaluated to confirm adequacy, citing use of HPD fit-test systems as best practice. In the proposed effort, Edare LLC will build on their Wireless Automated Hearing Test System (WAHTS) by adding novel fit testing algorithms designed to: (1) decrease the time it takes to verify HPD fit, and (2) incorporate personalized interactive education that will allow the system to be deployed at scale. Because the WAHTS can be used for both hearing and fit testing, it is a unique system that simplifies equipment needs and increases efficiency. |
| FA2488-23-P-B003 | Advanced Millimeter Wave Radar Absorbing Materials | $179,986 | Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | AF231-0012 | 09/20/2023 | 06/21/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Electro Magnetic Applications and Spann Consulting Services possess the skills and experiences uniquely aligned to investigating current absorber performance, identifying key candidates for improvement, and developing a path forward. Our experience in com |
| N68335-23-C-0568 | Enhanced Aircraft Non-Cooperative Target Recognition | $139,988 | Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-021 | 06/29/2023 | 01/02/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Traditionally, airborne maritime surveillance and air-to-air radar systems have not exploited multiple polarization data. This is mainly due to the fact that most were previously only capable of supporting a single polarization. However, an increasing number of new generation radar systems are fully polarimetric. With the ability to measure and simulate fully polarimetric radar signature data, new opportunities exist to improve non-cooperative target recognition (NCTR) capabilities. These include enhancing traditional techniques such as high range resolution (HRR), inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR), micro-Doppler, and jet engine modulation (JEM). The Navy wishes to apply these capabilities to characterize or classify electrically large, nonstable targets such as the Boeing 737-800 commercial airliner and the Chinese Xian H-6 bomber. In this example, both aircraft have similar dimensions, with the Boeing 737-800 having a wingspan of 113’ and length of 130’ while the Xian H-6 bomber has a wingspan of 108’ and length of 114’. However, each aircraft has distinct features. In particular, the H-6 has armament rails that could have missiles/bombs or fuel tanks attached to them. The engines on the H-6 are also closer to the fuselage than the 737-800. So, one would expect to see distinct radar signatures for the two aircraft. Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. (EMA) and Spann Consulting Services (SCS) propose an extensive simulation effort for the Phase I effort. This effort would include generation of fully polarimetric synthetic radar signature data for targets of interest to NAVAIR, including the Boeing 737-800 and the Xian H-6 bomber. Signature data will be generated over frequency bands of interest to NAVAIR, including UHF through X-band using the shooting and bouncing rays (SBR+) technique given its extensive validation history and advanced physics models for radar signature prediction of electrically large targets. The simulations will also consider CAD model fidelity to quantify the level of detail required in the CAD models for accurate predictions. Further, studies will be will performed to understand differences in signature data for slightly different versions of the aircraft. For example, the 737-800 and the 737-800 Max have slightly different dimensions and features and the Xian H-6 has different weapons configurations. Simulations may also be performed with full wave solvers for rotating/moving parts to address effects such as JEM since asymptotic techniques are typically not used for engine inlets and cavities. EMA and SCS will study the synthetic data to identify opportunities for improving NCTR techniques through distinct trends and behavior in fully polarimetric data over multiple radar frequency bands and over many aspect angles. The ideas that show the most promise for improving NCTR techniques will be implemented during the Phase II. |
| N68335-23-C-0335 | Electromagnetic Interactions Between Cables, Antennas, and Their Environments | $999,973 | Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | N221-015 | 05/25/2023 | 06/05/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Navy aircraft use complex cable harnesses to transfer data and provide power to avionics, weapons, sensors, control surfaces, and landing gear. The cable harnesses and the aircraft must be designed so that interference to an electronics unit does not occur. Design approaches must address the cable harness packing, separation, shielding, and layout to avoid crosstalk between conductors within an individual harness and between multiple cable harnesses. In addition to crosstalk, interference can occur due to onboard antennas coupling into cable harnesses (or vice versa), lightning strikes near or directly to the aircraft, electromagnetic pulse (EMP) events, and High Intensity Radiated Fields (HIRF). EMA3D Cable is a mature simulation tool for addressing these types of cable harness problems in a rigorous manner when design details about the cable harnesses and the rest of the aircraft structure and systems are available. EMA3D Cable leverages decades of full-aircraft validation, including a recent validation for NAVAIR on the Triton Platform. However, a solution does not currently exist for the early stages of an aircraft design when such details are not available or for when designers wish to perform a design trade study without performing a rigorous solution for the entire aircraft. A simulation tool is needed that can be used for all stages of an aircraft design while retaining the investment in the model development from previous stages of design. Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. (EMA) is the world leader for consulting, measurement, and simulation of cable harnesses in aerospace platforms for the past 40+ years. The company expertise includes lightning direct and indirect effects, EMP, HIRF, RFI, and several other technical areas within EM and RF. The EMA3D Cable software tool was developed specifically for modeling complex cable harnesses in aerospace platforms and has been validated many times including several prominent publications with aerospace companies such as Airbus, Bombardier, Embraer, The Boeing Company, and others. Through this effort, EMA will add multi-fidelity cable harness modeling capabilities to the EMA3D Cable product such that analysts can use the same tool from the very early conceptual stages of an aircraft all the way through final testing and certification. |
| N68335-23-C-0664 | Digital Engineering For Nuclear, Environmental, and Signal Integrity Performance of the Next Generation Hardened Connector | $899,518 | Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | N211-096 | 08/22/2023 | 03/11/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Navy boost vehicles require hardening and operate-through capability to nuclear electromagnetic pulse (EMP) effects. The Navy requires a new generation of cable harness Electrical Wiring Interconnect System (EWIS) connectors and cables designed to perform in the EMP environment. The requirements include protection from System Generated Electromagnetic pulse (SGEMP) and High-altitude Electromagnetic Pulse (HEMP). In addition to the nuclear environments, the connectors and cables must meet manufacturability, signal integrity, and a host of other environmental requirements such as vibration, shock, and high temperature variability. This proposal addresses the needs of SGEMP and HEMP cable and connector optimization to overcome these challenges. EMA proposes the use of digital simulation to develop the Next Generation of Hardened Connectors and Cables. EMA has over four decades built the largest library of validations that allow for digital simulation to take on a larger role in the connector design process. To address the design of cables and connectors, EMA has developed two successful commercial products: EMA3D Cable and EMA3D Charge. These tools allow for the prediction of HEMP and SGEMP performance at the connector and cable level. EMA3D is also used by manufacturers around the world to optimize cables and connectors to meet Signal Integrity (SI) and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) requirements. EMA3D includes electromagnetic, nuclear particle transport, and non-linear discharge solvers to evaluate connectors and cables against requirements. A typical design process for creating radiation hardened technologies is to iteratively design and manufacture protypes until all requirements are met. This is a time, labor, materials, and cost intensive process. By augmenting this design process with simulation, we can predict if a requirement will not be met before going through the process of sourcing materials, building the prototype, and physically testing for each iteration. Once a design is shown to pass through good simulation performance in a digital twin, a prototype can be manufactured for validation through physical testing. This design methodology also alleviates dependence on lab availability and sourcing materials through an inconsistent supply chain. The Phase II will continue the work started in the Phase I where an initial design and prototype of a hardened cable interconnect system were created. This prototype utilizes next generation materials such as rad-hard fiber optic and SGEMP resistance fillers. Throughout the Phase II the prototypes will be physically tested, and further simulation work will be used to finalize the cable interconnect design. The final design and prototypes delivered will have been evaluated for performance, aging, manufacturability, and maintainability. The hardened interconnect technology will meet all requirements and provide a viable solution that can be implemented into the next generation of warfighters. |
| FA9453-23-P-A049 | Novel Metrology Solutions for Space Based Antennas | $149,986 | Electro Magnetic Applications, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | SF224-0009 | 03/22/2023 | 01/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Maintaining communication links and sensor performance is essential for space missions given the harsh space environment and potentially catastrophic results if links are lost or sensor performance degrades. Large electronically scanned antenna arrays hav |
| SP4701-23-C-0044 | Tungsten 3% Rhenium Wire Manufacturing | $1,000,000 | Elmet Technologies LLC | SBIR | Phase II | DLA231-D08 | 08/30/2023 | 08/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | When GTP discontinued the manufacture of WRe wire, it ended US-based production of a material critical in the operations of MWT/TWT equipment for defense applications. The objective of this project is to produce a WRe wire that matches as closely as possible the wire produced by GTP while also potentially developing a process that meets or exceeds the yields achieved by GTP. The wire produced will range in size from 0.002” to 0.045”. Within the funding provided in the SBIR award, Elmet looks to make significant progress towards producing wire that meets the published specifications using GTP-furnished ingots. The wire specification is detailed in the Industry Specification Review: 3% Rhenium – 97% Tungsten Wire for Electron Devices, dated October 24, 2013. Based on Elmet’s research, interviews with GTP’s consultants, and years of experience producing fine tungsten wire to less than 0.001”, we believe that our legacy installed and operating equipment either matches exactly, is compatible and equivalent with, or in some cases more versatile relative to the equipment used by GTP for WRe wire production. Elmet will utilize our existing knowledge of tungsten wire production to develop a full scope of experiments meant to examine and characterize each critical process step. However, our experience informs us that even small changes in processing parameters may have a material impact on the quality or performance of the finished product and may require additional study, process and equipment modifications to achieve the desired properties. Within the proposal, we have constructed a technical discussion and development approach based on the best information available today. We anticipate that adjustments to this approach will be required once full information is available and we begin the development process. |
| FA8649-23-P-0429 | Development of an Integrated Directed Energy Aircraft Survivability Facility | $74,929 | [www.esi-solutionsinc.com Engineering And Scientific Innovations Inc.] | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed Ph I effort is a proof of concept for the development of a directed energy aircraft survivability facility that would enable the safe use high energy lasers under the prosence of airflow and flammable fluids, such as fuel. |
| HQ072723P0025 | High Current Vertical Photoconductive Semiconductor Switch (PCSS) and Trigger Subsystem | $197,264 | [www. Eureka Aerospace.com Eureka Aerospace] | SBIR | Phase I | DMEA231-005 | 08/03/2023 | 02/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Defense Microelectronics Activity | Implementation of multiple parallel current-sharing filaments in high-voltage photoconductive semiconductor switches (PCSS) has been shown to be very effective in scaling the current handling capability of the devices. This approach increases the active current-switching area on the surface of the device to handle higher total current. In this effort, we will develop a vertical geometry PCSS that will utilize the volume of the device to implement a 3D array of current-sharing filaments, greatly enhancing the current handling of the device. Current sharing will be achieved by triggering the current filaments with vertical lines of light through the bulk of the wafer to control their number and location. This implementation will also have advantages of operation at high internal fields compared to the surface breakdown limit for high voltage and improved current distribution between the surface-normal filaments and the planar contacts for dramatically improved total current handling and high-field operation. While lateral PCSSs through-current is limited by the surface area of the switch, the vertical or so-called bulk PCSS can handle much larger currents due to their 3D nature, potentially rendering N2 current filaments compared to only N filaments in the lateral switch (assuming the same pitch between the filaments. This opens a door to new optically-triggered PCSS designs that show great promise for scaling to switches capable of 100kV (DC) and 10kA current that can be realized by (1) employing longer (thicker) semiconductor bulk material in the vertical PCSS or (2) stacking shorter bulk vertical PCSSs in parallel to achieve 100's of kA with 105 shot lifetime. The new vertical switch design configuration generates parallel filaments in the bulk GaAs (as opposed to just beneath the surface as in lateral PCSS designs) to achieve breakdown fields close to the maximum for the bulk GaAs while operating in air, and with 2-D scalability of the number of current-sharing filaments. This design also may be highly compatible with 2-D VCSEL arrays for optical triggering. Limited tests using vertical switches, carried out by Sandia National Labs utilized standard thickness wafers to trigger 0.4kA at 35kV/cm (limited by 0.6mm wafer thickness), tested to 105 shots with no detectable degradation of switch performance. Higher fields, total current, and switching voltages would be achievable with thicker GaAs wafers. |
| FA8649-23-P-0720 | Computer-Based Systems to Systematically Advance the AFRL Human Capital Strategy 2021 – 2030 | $75,000 | Executive Development Associates, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Culture / Command Climate is Critical to the Success of Organizational Missions and Workforce Safety and Engagement. This project aims to complete the development of an artificial intelligence (AI) system that can autonomously and continuously gather work |
| HQ0860-23-C-7126 | Additively-Manufactured Insulated Propulsion Components (AMIPC) | $1,480,694 | [ Exo-Atmospheric Technologies LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | MDA21-T005 | 03/20/2023 | 03/19/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | In Phase II, Exo-Atmospheric Technologies, LLC (EXO) will team up with multiple propulsion providers to fabricate throat inserts, pintles, and other structural components to verify and validate their Additively-Manufactured Insulating Propulsion Component (AMIPC) technology. EXO will use analysis tools to create components optimized for thermal insulation and structural performance utilizing multiple Topology Optimization algorithms. The AMIPC components generated in Phase II will be hot-fire tested multiple times with a wide range of thrust sizes and propellant compositions with multiple commercialization partners. EXO will utilize their Reusable Motor System (RMS) to fire four throat inserts and will partner with a propulsion prime to test a pintle and throat assembly in a throttling SDACs system. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11340 (16 Dec 22) |
| N68335-23-C-0242 | Integrated Digital Ignition Device (IDID) | $864,774 | [ Exo-Atmospheric Technologies LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | N211-020 | 04/06/2023 | 04/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Legacy rocket launch systems rely on analog electromechanical intervalometers to provide reliable, precise timing of rocket launch events via squibs or electro-explosive devices (EEDs) while maintaining necessary requirements for ARM, LOAD, and FIRE events on launch systems such as the LAU-68 or LAU-131. Current analog intervalometer designs require use of mechanical timing and indexing switches to determine state and only allow limited operational scenarios that do not easily account for anomalous operation (i.e., hang-fire). A digital solution could eliminate the entire use of the mechanical intervalometer by monitoring the state of the launcher via feedback from the firing signal event or other sensors. In addition, the use of a modern microcontroller to control the firing device would allow compensation for a wide range of system variables (e.g., storage and operational temperature effects on circuit resistance) which could then be accounted for in the stored fire control algorithms thus allowing for more precise and robust firing events when compared with the heritage intervalometer while providing the ability to fire individual rockets in a preferred order rather than sequentially. Exo-Atmospheric Technologies will implement an Integrated Digital Ignition Device (IDID) powered by a microcontroller to replace current legacy analog intervalometer designs. The avionics will be designed, built, and tested to verify performance specifications and requirements are met via bench-top demonstrations and environmental system-level testing. Planned experiments for Phase II will build upon the successful prototype demonstrated in Phase I and will qualify the new digital system for use over its full range of environments. Additional testing and integration of the IDID system will also be conducted to demonstrate the utility, performance, diagnostic, and communication capabilities of the new architecture that can be further adapted to support drop-in replacements for legacy hardware currently operating in the field. Final testing in Phase II will demonstrate operation in a USN test and evaluation platform. |
| N68335-23-C-0081 | Deployable Hypersonic Antenna Assembly (DHAA) | $139,128 | [ Exo-Atmospheric Technologies LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | N222-128 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | The objective of Phase I is to determine an optimal antenna array design and frequency band of operation to achieve reliable communication in the presence of plasma from glide body separation to terminal phase. Candidate designs will be identified and analyzed in Phase I and will be prototyped and tested in Phase II. Exo-Atmospheric Technologies will develop a simple, lightweight Deployable Hypersonic Antenna Assembly (DHAA) for use on the aft plane of a hypersonic glide vehicle. The basic antenna element will be a rod-shaped monopole antenna made of an advanced material that can be extended into (and retracted from) the aft-side wake, to enable RF communication in the direction perpendicular to the vehicle axis, to ground or space assets. The Phase I effort will use simulation tools to design the high-temperature antenna element material structure, model plasma and thermal distributions during glide vehicle flight regimes, and finally to predict far-field antenna performance for various antenna array configurations and operating frequency bands. The antenna itself is composed of an additively-manufactured material that possesses excellent thermal shock characteristics while at the same time possessing a high melting point. Additionally, the deployment mechanism is robust, reliable, and mechanically simple to operate. |
| W911NF23P0028 | FIRST Responder: Female Injury Mixed-Reality Simulation Training | $197,920 | Exonicus, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | A234-009 | 07/31/2023 | 10/31/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | The primary purpose of this work is to develop a comprehensive technical plan and prototype (phase one) to integrate multiple technologies via open standards (MOHSES/JETS) to create a comprehensive female manikin simulation platform (phase two) with validated cases, physiology, and interventions that leverage state-of-the-art technologies (AR, VR, traditional manikins, and part-task trainers). The goal is to enable effective and efficient training so military medical personnel can save more lives on the battlefield with special emphasis on female anatomy, physiology, pathology, and targeted interventional training to mitigate, for example, young medics' respectful (but lethal) hesitancy to perform certain exams/interventions on female casualties. To achieve this goal, six objectives have been identified. The first objective is to verify essential female patient-specific (Tactical Combat Casualty Care, Prolonged Casualty Care, and Chemical-Biological-Radiologic resuscitation) interventions and convert them into simulation-based learning objectives. The second objective is to develop an optimal self-guided simulation training plan using various technologies, including AR, VR, physical manikins, and learning outcome assessments. The third objective is to identify critical requirements for AR, VR, and physical female manikins necessary for implementing the training plan. The fourth objective is to develop a high-level system design using open standards (MOHSES/JETS) to integrate various simulation modalities and identify gaps that require development to achieve the optimal attainable solution (phase one) and identify critical/prioritized gaps that require development to achieve the optimal solution (phase two). The fifth objective is to develop and present a prototype of the integrated female manikin simulator platform. Finally, the sixth objective is to identify opportunities for synthetic training data captures to enable future artificial intelligence training assessment, difficulty optimization, and clinical decision support system generation. |
| W911NF-23-P-0004 | Non-canonical genetic code implementation with an optimized, easily scaled cell free lysate system | $249,990 | [ FABRICO TECHNOLOGY, INC.] | STTR | Phase I | OSD22B-001 | 01/16/2023 | 01/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Office of the Secretary of Defense | Naturally occurring protein polymers are limited by the chemistry of the canonical genetic code. By incorporating non-canonical amino acids (ncAA) monomers into proteins, the catalytic, sensing, and physical properties of proteins can be engineered to generate novel reagents and materials. To address this synthetic biology need, Fabrico Technology and Professor Andrew Ellington at the University of Texas at Austin (UTA) propose to develop an innovative One Pot cell free lysate system for the scalable in vitro transcription and translation (IVTT) of proteins/polymers incorporating natural and ncAA. The proposed One Pot system should be extremely cost-effective and only requires a single purification step to obtain active protein factors for IVTT. The Ellington lab has utilized this technology to previously achieve site-specific incorporation of ncAA via orthogonal aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase/ tRNA pairs. In Phase I, Fabrico and the Ellington Lab will demonstrate the incorporation of 2 ncAAs and scale this capability to a 2-liter bioreactor. This demonstration will provide Fabrico with in-house reporters that can be adapted to diagnostic assays. In Phase II, we intend to incorporate 3 or more ncAAs, and scale the production capacity to a 10-liter bioreactor resulting in optimization of 10 or greater factor production from current systems. |
| W911SR-23-C-0016 | Development of Small Molecule Therapeutics Specifically Targeting Members of the Bunyavirales Order | $561,318 | [ FABRICO TECHNOLOGY, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | CBD212-006 | 05/22/2023 | 05/23/2025 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | Fabrico Technology, Professor Kevin Dalby, the Johnson & Johnson Centennial Professor of Chemical Biology & Medicinal Chemistry, and Dr. Tamer Kaoud, Research Assistant Professor of Chemical Biology & Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, the University of Texas at Austin (UT), have successfully met and exceeded the Phase I technical objectives as specified in the original Phase I solicitation. The UT Team generated pseudotyped lentiviral particles bearing Hantavirus (i.e., HTNV and ANDV) and Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (VSV, as a positive control) glycoproteins. These particles were then utilized in an infection cell-based assay to screen for triptan derivatives that prevented Hantavirus entry via endocytosis pathway inhibition in the mammalian HEK293T, A549, and Caco-2 cell lines demonstrating minimum toxicity. As a proof-of-concept, thePhase I studies showed that tested triptans are safe with minimum non-specific interactions and cytotoxicity. Building on this success, Fabrico Technology and the UT Team intend to continue to develop, research and optimize triptan derivatives that demonstrated the greatest efficacy in Phase I. In this Phase II program, Fabrico Technology and the UT Team intends to collaborate with Professor Bente and Dr. Cajimat of the Galveston National Laboratory at UTMB Galveston to provide and be responsible for the conducting of Hamster animal studies with live virus using the identified triptan inhibitors. The Fabrico Technology, UT, and UTMB team intends to meet all of the technical requirements specified in the original Phase II solicitation, including; investigating the mechanism of action using mammalian cell lines and patient-derived organoids, determining the appropriate dose using in-vivo PK/PD modeling in Hamsters and in-vitro ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion), and performing safety/toxicity and efficacy studies in the same animal model using live Andes hantavirus. Fabrico intends to pursue supplemental funding from the NIH Antiviral Program to expand the UT Austin development and UTMB animal studies. |
| FA8649-23-P-0519 | XtruJog: Modernization of Joggling of Extruded Aluminum Parts | $944,580 | FAIRMOUNT TECHNOLOGIES LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/10/2023 | 11/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In this proposed D2P2 project, we will rapidly develop a second generation XtruJog machine, XJ-2, to be capable of automatically hot joggling parts with the required joggles at the programmed locations. Self-funded proof-of-concept research has shown that |
| W5170123C0016 | XtruMach: Fixture-less Machining of Extruded Components | $997,906 | FAIRMOUNT TECHNOLOGIES LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A19-166 | 12/08/2022 | 06/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| N68335-23-C-0344 | Synthetic Graphite from Biomass as Anode Material for 6T Batteries | $145,508 | FARAD POWER INC | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T020 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Farad Power Inc. proposes to develop and commercialize a Li-ion battery (LIB)- grade graphite from an agricultural waste extract for use in 6T batteries for the US Navy. Specifically, furan chemicals (furfural C5H4O2 and furfuryl alcohol C5H6O2) are extracted from the hemicellulose component of plant-based biomass. These chemicals are pure, cheap, and abundant. We have developed a patented process to polymerize these furan chemicals, followed by carbonization at 1000oC to make hard carbon. These are partially graphitized, with significant d002 peaks in their X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns (the d002 XRD peak is the primary peak identifying graphite). These hard carbons also have good electrochemical performance (280 mAh/g capacity at 1C rates) and excellent cycle life (88% capacity retention after 1000 cycles). We propose to use these carbonized materials as precursors for LIB-grade graphite synthesis. The existing synthetic graphite manufacturing process used by the industry today graphitizes a carbonized material derived from petroleum pitch or coal-tar pitch. Following carbonization, these pitch-based materials are still amorphous (no evidence of d002 peaks in their XRD patterns). The graphitization process thus requires a prolonged soaking at elevated temperatures (3000oC). Some of these processes can last up to 72 hours – making the graphitization of pitch-derived materials a highly energy-intensive operation. Furthermore, due to the duration of the process, graphitization of pitch-based materials will have a large ‘carbon footprint’. Also, manufacturing plants must be strategically located in low-cost areas (specifically for electricity supply). We have performed some initial graphitization studies on our furan-based carbons. Heating for 1 hour at 3000oC resulted in a significant change of the d002 XRD peak – signifying a substantial increase in the degree of graphitization. Electrochemical testing with a SiOx powder additive (in a 2:1 ratio) resulted in a capacity of >700 mAh/g, with excellent stability over 20 cycles. We are thus proposing to graphitize our hard carbons using different heating profiles, to identify the most effective version for full graphitization with an LIB anode capacity of >350 mAh/g. Phase I BASE will screen samples from different heating profiles (including temperatures of 2500oC & lower). XRD and 1/2 cell testing (< 5 cycles) will be used as the screening criteria. During the Phase I OPTION period, we propose to graphitize several batches using the most promising profile – to test the repeatability of the process. At this stage, we plan to also test full cells over 300 cycles to evaluate cycling stability. This will set us up for Phase II, where we propose to supply furan-derived graphite to our 6T battery partners for evaluation. Phase II will also use capacity-enhancing additives (SiOx) to improve the overall performance of the 6T battery. Plans for commercialization will also be developed. |
| N68335-23-C-0559 | Portable Non-Destructive Insulation Tester | $297,932 | FASTWATT LLC | SBIR | Phase II | N211-038 | 07/03/2023 | 07/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Fastwatt LLC, in collaboration with GE Research, proposes to develop a novel non-destructive insulation tester that is compact, portable and provides multiple functions. It can be used as a part of design validation or qualification tests for components such as laminated busbars, cables and transformer/ machine windings. The tester consists of a voltage source pulser which can output medium voltage DC, AC or PWM, including multi-level waveshapes. The tester will be built with a scalable stack of high-frequency MOSFET power bridges. For typical test loads such as laminated busbars, transformer insulation, and machine winding samples, the load capacitance and hence the tester power requirements will be sufficiently small to allow operation from a 120 V, 15 A input. The tester will be designed to act as a power amplifier that follows an input signal from a benchtop function generator - this will allow insulation testing at a variety of DC, AC or mixed waveforms. Partial discharge sensing and measurement of capacitance and dissipation changes will be incorporated to detect insulation defects or onset of failure. Fast protection will be incorporagted in the tester to prevent damage in case of failure of the insulation test samples. During the Phase 1 Base program, we have worked on improving the packaging of the tester, incoroporated protection for output short circuits and improved the startup sequence of the tester. |
| N68335-23-C-0619 | Improved Electromechanical Actuators for Aircraft Carrier Flight Deck Operations | $138,596 | FATHOM5 CORP | SBIR | Phase I | N231-053 | 07/27/2023 | 01/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | Fathom5 proposes to insert a Simplified Parallel Eccentric (SPE) drive train in between the existing EMA electric motor and the linear screw. The SPE is a novel, patented, high-torque compact drive train that is part of Fathom5’s Tesar Lift™ developmental product line of electromagnetic actuators. The SPE input will be outfitted with a bull gear driven by an idler/pinion that is connected to a battery powered lower-torque electric motor, hereafter referred to as the lowering motor. The lowering motor engages the bull gear. The battery system will be charged while the JBD is in nominal operations. In the event of a loss of primary and back-up EMA power, the Lowering Motor can be remotely commanded to lower each of the JBD panels. The lowering motor and bull-gear assembly will not be sized to conduct efficient raising operations but will be able to directly back drive the SPE geartrain from its input. This allows the lowering effort to be reverse driving (rather than back driving) the linear screw, removing a significant amount of the lowering resistance. This has the added effect of placing a reduction ratio in between the EMA motor and linear screw, providing more mechanical advantage to the existing EMA assembly and lowering its overall current requirements during door acceleration and deceleration jerks. The expected operation time under the lowering motor is estimated to be one minute or less per panel. Total emergency lowering time would depend on the number of panels that could be simultaneously stowed as determined by the result of this Phase I effort. The SPE is a novel eccentric gearbox allowing high volumetric torque density. The reduction in the number of parts compared to traditional eccentric reducers allows the tailoring of strength and reliability properties depending on application with a focus on high torque industrial applications. Fathom5's SPE differs from existing eccentric gearboxes by using spur tooth shapes instead of cycloidal discs, which increases load capacity and durability. |
| N68335-23-C-0691 | Centralized Automated Fault Monitoring | $139,531 | FATHOM5 CORP | SBIR | Phase I | N231-055 | 08/25/2023 | 02/27/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Fathom 5 / Fairbanks Morse Defense (FMD) team propose a centralized fault monitoring system design that expands upon the existing capabilities of two technologies: FM OnBoard and eRM 4.0. FM OnBoard is a digital platform designed by FMD that provides data ingest and aggregation, dashboards visualizing current operating statues, and Machine Learning (ML)-based algorithms to generate insights into current and future asset condition. eRM 4.0 is a secure analytics hosting environment developed by Fathom5 that is the USN’s current Program of Record (PoR) for Condition-Based Maintenance (CBM) and has already been approved and published to USN ships. We propose modifying the FM OnBoard software to provide the additional capabilities needed for a centralized autonomous fault reporting system and hosting the modified software in the eRM 4.0 environment. Because it builds upon previously developed capabilities and integrates with existing USN infrastructure and program pathways for HM&E systems software, this approach enormously reduces the complexity and risk of building a centralized autonomous reporting system and paves a clear path for deployment abord USN vessels as part of an existing program of record. |
| W51701-23-C-0209 | Extended Durability Fuel Cells | $1,730,751 | FC RENEW, LLC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-016 | 08/15/2023 | 02/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| H9240523P0014 | Hokkien Low Density Language Capability | $174,965 | FEMTOSENSE, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | SOCOM232-002 | 08/29/2023 | 04/01/2024 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | Femtosense is an innovative tech startup leading the charge to deploy sparse AI using novel techniques that are far more affordable and easier to implement than traditional AI computational technologies. Femtosense’s invention – the Sparse Processing Unit (SPU-001) is a TRL level 7 processing chip poised to disrupt the $50B AI hardware market. It offers best-in-class SWaP-C (Size, Weight, Power, and Cost) tradeoffs and can enable applications other accelerators cannot thanks to first class support for sparse neural networks. Running sparse neural networks, as opposed to dense ones, boasts a 10x reduction in required memory and 100x reduction in power, with a minimal or negligible drop in accuracy. Femtosense designs their own bespoke sparse neural networks for the most challenging but high value applications, many of which offer critical value to soldiers, officers, and other personnel throughout the DoD. Femtosense also offers tools for engineers and researchers to train, optimize, and deploy sparse versions of their own networks, open-source networks, or 3rd party networks, to the SPU through common ML frameworks such as TensorFlow Lite and PyTorch. Femtosense has commercialized this technology and is bringing it to market. SPU-001 has been silicon validated, taped-out in the 22nm ULL process from TSMC. Femtosense is undergoing evaluation with 20+ companies to enable problem-solving applications in hearing aids, TWS earbuds/headsets, always-listening remote controls, TVs and displays, smartphones, and IoT sensors. Femtosense is currently developing SPU-002 for extending the capabilities of SPU-001 to the Computer Vision and Natural Language Processing domains. SPU-002 will be optimized for transformer layers, which are the backbones of SotA large language models (LLMs), making it the best choice for processing SWaP-constrained language workloads like live translation. |
| FA8649-23-P-0213 | The Forest Inventory Management System (FIMS): towards healthier forests | $74,972 | [ FEN TECHNOLOGY LLC] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | FEN Technology LLC has developed a digital predictive tool for forestry management that helps forecast the evolution of forests under a series of key environmental parameter changes. The Forest Inventory Management System (FIMS) uses Lidendenmayer computational algorithms to model changes in the parameters of trees. Aerial imagery and field data source the algorithm to model branches development and species spatial distribution changes, which in turn help plan urban tree plantation, reforestation, pruning and wildfire prevention strategies. FIMS is coupled with a novel agent-based approach to include the effects of external factors such as topography, sunlight intensity, wind trends, climate change, pests and disease, wildlife and infrastructures. The FIMS is designed to help managing forests by city councils, government and the wood industry. |
| FA8649-23-P-0414 | Advanced Multi Domain Assurance for Air Force Networks | $74,977 | FEND INCORPORATED | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/07/2022 | 02/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Air Force weapon systems are heavily reliant on complex software and high interconnectivity to perform their missions. Cyber capabilities enable many advanced features (e.g., electronic attack, sensor fusion, and communications) that give the Air Force an edge over potential adversaries. But they also create potential opportunities for adversaries to counter U.S. advantages through cyberattacks. A sophisticated adversary may seek to discover and exploit vulnerabilities in a systems software, supporting systems, or supply chain in order to gain intelligence or to sabotage operations. This is also a critical problem with legacy systems, which make up the majority of Air Force inventory. One class of hardware, data diodes, can get information out of a system and to its destination without any fear of a compromised network connection. Data diodes are security appliances that enable a physically-enforced, one-way information stream about the state of equipment assets. These devices use light as the medium to transmit data from one side to the other, physically isolating the equipment from lower-security networks. Data diodes are used today to protect the most critical of assets, like nuclear power plants, but at an expense often exceeding $100,000 per connection. On-site diode configuration adds to the cost and complexity of this technology, which is more at home in server rooms than mobile platforms. Fend physically protects connected equipment from cyberattack while providing real-time situational awareness. The need for unidirectional communications arises from attackers’ ability to stay one step ahead of traditional cyber defenses like firewalls and software-based security. However, the patches and updates to these systems are always preparing for yesterday’s war, leaving equipment managers vulnerable to today’s threats. These attackers use rentable botnets, unlimited cloud computing, and artificial intelligence to find and exploit any flaw in software or network configurations. Some malicious code is going to get through these defenses. To enable widespread deployment across DAF assets, Fend will enhance its technological capabilities including speed, form factor, and expanded protocol support. |
| FA8649-23-P-0010 | Transport Agnostic Integrated Edge System | $1,233,683 | FENIX GROUP, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 02/18/2023 | 06/24/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This project’s scope is to develop, test, and deliver a prototype Transport Agnostic Integrated EDGE System. The Transport Agnostic Integrated EDGE System expeditionary Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) system is a portab |
| FA8658-23-C-B003 | Next-Generation Hypersonic Testing (NiGHT) TACTFI | $1,798,602 | FGC Plasma Solutions, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AF203-001 | 07/24/2023 | 07/19/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed work will mature improvements to high-speed air breathing propulsion systems designed to improve performance and operability. This will be studied through a combination of experimental studies and a digital engineering-based design approach t |
| FA8649-23-P-0070 | Wide operability propulsion systems for future multi-mission platforms | $74,147 | FGC Plasma Solutions, Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In the era of great power competition, the Department of the Air Force (DAF) has prioritized the development and fielding of high Mach systems to maintain and enhance the Air Force’s global presence capabilities. These systems fulfil a variety of roles ranging from long-range time critical strike in denied environments to penetrating surveillance and high Mach transport. As part of this strategy, it is also necessary to develop larger scramjet engines which could support a variety of missions. The larger scales inherent to these engines for multi-mission platforms will create unique challenges for propulsion systems. The technologies developed by FGC Plasma for its commercial and other hypersonic applications will be leveraged for this phase I effort to explore the potential benefits FGC Plasma's technology may have for a larger DMRJ. |
| FA9550-23-C-0003 | Continuous SEP Nowcasting and Forecasting for Space Systems (SIRE2-Now) | $1,249,993 | FIFTH GAIT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | SF224-D034 | 09/01/2023 | 08/31/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Fifth Gait Technologies plans to develop the SIRE2-Now capabilities as part of the SIRE2 (Space Ionizing Radiation Environment and Effects) family of tools. SIRE2-Now will consist of an application programming interface (API) that will provide access to ( |
| FA8649-23-P-0826 | Talos - Metallized Additive Manufacturing | $74,987 | FIGURE INC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | To achieve mission readiness targets, there is a need within the Air Force to rapidly produce high strength/durable/wear resistant aerospace components for older aircraft where original manufacturers no longer exist Metal coating is well documented to imp |
| FA8649-23-P-0483 | PULSAR – Portable Ultra Low Sulfur AnalyzeR for Jet and Diesel Fuels | $1,249,943 | FIGURE INC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/09/2023 | 11/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | When deployed in foreign environments, Air Force troops do not have access to the same quality fuel as they do in the United States. Low quality fuel often contains high concentrations of unwanted elements such as sulfur. High sulfur content in fuel cause |
| FA8649-23-P-0858 | Low-Cost, Long-Range, Mission-Adaptable UAS | $74,472 | [ FIRESTORM LABS, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/05/2023 | 08/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Firestorm is supported by the Commander and Deputy Commander, 9 AF and AFCENT Task Force 99 and is excited to continue the development of our 3D-printed, radically affordable, mission-adaptable, and multi-role attritable UASs with the USAF. Our patent-pen |
| FA8649-23-P-1035 | Expeditionary Manufacturing Cell (xCell) for Long-Range UAS Production at the Edge | $1,248,499 | [ FIRESTORM LABS, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 09/27/2023 | 03/28/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Firestorm is proposing a research and development effort to operationalize "xCell" – a mobile munitions manufacturing capability for loitering Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), enabled by 3D printing and additive manufacturing. The goal of the project is to |
| HQ0860-23-C-7522 | Hypersonic Seeker Window Attachment for Hypersonic Flight Systems | $149,866 | FIRST RF CORPORATION | STTR | Phase I | MDA22-T011 | 11/30/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | The harsh environment posed by hypersonic flight makes antenna design challenging due to extreme temperature exposure coupled with often competing mechanical/aero and RF performance requirements. FIRST RF proposes an advancement to its numerous conformal antenna technologies utilizing additive manufacturing of dielectric materials. This approach will decouple the competing RF and mechanical requirements and lead to significant advancements in sensor design and performance, reducing procurement costs and resulting in more robust antennas for high-speed platforms. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| N68335-23-C-0064 | N222-112 Low-profile High-Frequency Maritime Antenna | $139,911 | FIRST RF CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N222-112 | 11/07/2022 | 05/09/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | The 1.5 MHz to 35 MHz HF band supports a variety of functions (including ionospheric characterization and over-the-horizon communications) with relatively little infrastructure. The large antenna sizes required present a significant challenge that has prevented the adaptation of HF systems on small platforms. Small, low free-board maritime craft have an extremely small footprint and require a miniaturized antenna that minimizes SWaP, is optimized for the proximity of seawater, and supports a variety of waveforms. FIRST RF’s solution approaches the problem from a systems perspective through the combination of three unique technologies to optimize the antenna type for the platform, compensate for the environment, and provide the required bandwidth. This multi-pronged approach eliminates the reliance on diminishing returns offered by a single-technology solution. |
| N68335-23-C-0082 | N222-128 Development of Hypersonic Glide Body Deployable Antennas | $139,888 | FIRST RF CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N222-128 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | Deployment of hypersonic weapons is one of the primary goals of the Department of Defense (DoD). This desire is driven by advances Russia and China have made with their hypersonic weapon systems. Unlike the nuclear capabilities being pursued by these adversaries, DoD seeks to improve targeting accuracy and real-time communications to ensure successful mission outcomes. Therefore, there is great demand to equip US-based hypersonic platforms, such as the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) platform with robust antenna options that survive and operate in extremely hostile mechanical and thermal environments, enabling advanced, mission-critical functionality. Available space for the integration of antennas on hypersonic vehicles is severely limited due to the extreme heating caused by aerothermal friction and the aft plate of boost-glide vehicles is attractive for the consolidation of various antenna functions. To fully utilize this space, antenna apertures must minimize SWaP and maximize functionality. FIRST RF proposes several potential low-SWaP antenna solutions to enable advanced capabilities on the CPS platform. Specific antenna functions and integration will be worked in concert with the Government. Validation of developed aperture concepts will be prototyped and tested to ensure compatibility with high-speed vehicle environments. |
| W15QKN-23-C-0025 | P22-083 A21C-T002 Phase II STTR (Smith) | $1,149,995 | FIRST RF CORPORATION | STTR | Phase II | A21C-T002 | 09/26/2023 | 09/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | Recent advancements in artillery, muzzle velocity, and post-launch propulsion technology have enabled precision guided munitions (PGMs) to travel faster and at longer ranges than ever before. To be most effective in flight and at range, the munitions must incorporate RF sensors to enable advanced, mission-critical functionality. The RF sensors must also be able to survive and operate through extreme gun-launch and hypersonic aerothermal environments. To survive the thermal requirements, the sensors must reside underneath a wideband RF transparent window. The integration of both the window and antenna must be accomplished in such a way to be compatible to the projectile size, weight, and power constraints. FIRST RF has, over the years, developed numerous key antenna technologies capable of sustained operation in the artillery-launched and hypersonic regimes. This technology will be leveraged in this effort. Additionally, as with all PGMs, space is very limited. As more and more frequencies (bandwidth) are desired, the complexity and volume required increases. FIRST RF has developed both conformal antennas and miniaturized wideband antennas that may be used for gun-launched munition applications. It is proposed that these antennas be combined with high shock window materials and construction methods to create a highly versatile solution for the warfighter. This overall approach significantly lowers the required volume allocation, complexity, cost and weight of the sensor system. Recent advancements in artillery, muzzle velocity, and post-launch propulsion technology have enabled precision guided munitions (PGMs) to travel faster and at longer ranges than ever before. To be most effective in flight and at range, the munitions must incorporate RF sensors to enable advanced, mission-critical functionality. The RF sensors must also be able to survive and operate through extreme gun-launch and hypersonic aerothermal environments. To survive the thermal requirements, the sensors must reside underneath a wideband RF transparent window. The integration of both the window and antenna must be accomplished in such a way to be compatible to the projectile size, weight, and power constraints. FIRST RF has, over the years, developed numerous key antenna technologies capable of sustained operation in the artillery-launched and hypersonic regimes. This technology will be leveraged in this effort. Additionally, as with all PGMs, space is very limited. As more and more frequencies (bandwidth) are desired, the complexity and volume required increases. FIRST RF has developed both conformal antennas and miniaturized wideband antennas that may be used for gun-launched munition applications. It is proposed that these antennas be combined with high shock window materials and construction methods to create a highly versatile solution for the warfighter. This overall approach significantly lowers the required volume allocation, complexity, cost and weight of the sensor system. |
| M67854-23-C-6520 | P23-014 Broadband Antenna Solution for Vehicle-Mounted Electronic Warfare Systems | $139,859 | FIRST RF CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N231-003 | 07/12/2023 | 05/10/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The Navy, in support of the Marine Corps, is seeking an innovative, consolidated antenna solution for vehicle-mounted Electronic Warfare Systems (EWS) for geolocating, direction finding, and countering threats on the ground and in the air. In addition to supporting transmit requirements, the antenna must interface with emerging advanced ultra-wideband photonic receiver technology that can rapidly process threats within the entire frequency range of the electromagnetic spectrum from near DC up to 20 GHz with objectives to reach 80+ GHz. Due to challenging vehicle integration constraints, the antenna must fit within a one cubic foot form factor and withstand seawater submersion. In response to this need, FIRST RF Corporation proposes a breakthrough multi-port antenna design that provides a broadband, dual-polarized, configuration suitable for receive and transmit applications in a single one cubic foot package. The antenna achieves a gain flatness response consistent with the goals of the system and maintains a wide field of view spanning at least ±45° in both azimuth and elevation. This field of view combined with excellent pattern stability enables increased accuracy in angle of arrival (AoA) determination supporting geolocation applications. Moreover, the antenna is tailored to interface with next-generation multi-channel receivers by eliminating the need for beamforming hardware that has previously burdened the Size, Weight, Power, and Cost (SWaP-C) as well as the efficiency of the legacy systems. |
| 140D0423C0024 | DARPA RIMA Adoption AF161-052 (P22-074) | $1,799,969 | FIRST RF CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | AF161-052 | 01/19/2023 | 01/22/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The dynamic geopolitical climate of recent years has shifted the focus of the United States Armed Forces and Department of Defense (DoD) away from insurgency and toward near-peer adversaries. Maintaining battlefield dominance against well-equipped and highly capable military forces requires innovative, capable, adaptable, and scalable radio frequencies (RF) technologies—particularly those supporting electronic attack (EA), communications, and radar systems. Traditionally, these functions have been individually supported by monolithic, highly specialized, and expensive antenna systems. In recent years, concurrent breakthroughs in wideband, wide-coverage phased arrays and commercially available RF electronics have set the stage for new technologies to replace and combine these systems’ front ends with smaller, multi-functional, lower-cost, and more capable equipment. However, the characteristics that enable these improvements require new methods of controlling these arrays, either to support new operational modes (e.g., multi-beam capability) or to properly account for the design aspects that enable this expanded performance (e.g., irregular arrays of broadband elements). These considerations include new beamformer-based methods of monitoring and controlling additional performance metrics, including active impedance, prime power limitations, thermal management, etc. FIRST RF’s proposed work leverages our decades-long experience with wideband antennas, phased arrays, and advanced beamforming to demonstrate a robust, scalable, and reconfigurable mechanism for accomplishing wideband, multi-beam, multifunctional beamforming. |
| 140D0423C0023 | DARPA Navy AEA Adoption N171-017 (P22-076) | $1,799,239 | FIRST RF CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase II | N171-017 | 01/20/2023 | 01/22/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | To maintain spectrum dominance against insurgent, near-peer, and peer adversaries, it is imperative for the United States Armed Forces and Department of Defense (DoD) to expand our nation’s superior capabilities for functions across the radio frequency (RF) spectrum, including communications, wideband electronic attack (EA), and radar missions. While recent advances in exciter and amplifier technologies have made significant enhancements in the availability of broadband, high-power electronics, a similar improvement is required for antenna arrays that can provide efficient, high-power coverage over large spatial, spectral, and polarimetric domains—including support of multiple simultaneous beams. In practice, conventional array technologies supporting these functions are not only highly specialized to their specific function, but are also subject to fundamental limitations associated with bandwidth, power handling/efficiency, scan volume, scan blindness, and polarization diversity. These limitations motivate exploration of a new class of non-traditional antenna arrays. Given the recent breakthroughs and advancements in commercially available RF electronics, there is an unprecedented opportunity for a shift in design philosophy towards combination of operational functions. With that comes a need to expand the capabilities of supporting array technologies, including a new demand for innovative array products that can support wideband, multifunction, multi-beam operations with low-cost, scalable, and adaptable arrays. To address this technology gap, FIRST RF proposes an innovative antenna element and modular array topology that, together, support next-generation, multi-mission phased array capabilities. The proposed program seeks to quantitatively demonstrate the benefits of a novel, next-generation antenna array in supporting performance that is relevant to future communications, EA, and radar systems. |
| FA8649-23-P-0712 | Exfiltration of Complex Data for Low-Observable Stressing Environment Using Meta Data | $74,983 | FISHEYE SOFTWARE, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 04/26/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | As the United States safeguards the Indo-Pacific Region, threats are evolving technical measures that could impact our ability to project power during heightened operational conflict phases. A primary concern is contested or degraded communications preve |
| W5170123C0108 | Diver Monitoring Platform (DMP) | $149,270 | FLIPPER INC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-004 | 03/30/2023 | 07/10/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| W51701-23-C-0239 | Algae - Based Sustainable Building Materials | $246,748 | FLORA MATERIALS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | A234-P014 | 09/08/2023 | 03/13/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted. |
| FA8649-23-P-0503 | Integrated Lifestyle and Performance Medicine Platform and Digital Toolkit | $1,249,985 | FITCHIMP, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/09/2023 | 08/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The 354th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron located at Eielson Air Force Base in North Star, Alaska, under the Air Force Medical Readiness Agency (AFMRA), has a critical mission to oversee the health and well-being of all active-duty military members |
| FA8649-23-P-0585 | Utilizing electric cargo bikes for flightline maintenance support to provide cost effective readiness and improve warfighter health. | $73,169 | FLEET CYCLES INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Department of Defense (DOD) is the world’s single largest consumer of fuel, spending more than $20 billion a year to purchase 4.6 billion gallons of fuel and transport it across the world. The Air Force (USAF) uses 52 percent of that total—about 2.4 b |
| FA8649-23-P-0587 | Backlash-Free Back-Drivable Flux Angle Mapping Magnetic Gears for Increased Survivability, Agility, and Precision of Unmanned Aerial Systems and Robotics in Harsh and Urban Environments | $74,837 | FLUXWORKS, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Flux Angle Mapping coaxial magnetic gear technology for precision rotary actuators are a recently conceived deep technology that has never been physically prototyped (TRL 2-3). Thus, during Phase I, FluxWorks intends to perform a detailed feasibility |
| FA8649-23-P-0855 | Portable Wireless Drone Charging in support of expeditionary and security missions in austere environments. | $74,592 | FORCYTE LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/17/2023 | 08/16/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Forcyte designs and builds innovative portable drone energy operating environments. Capabilities include wirelessly powering mission-critical drone systems through a wearable RuckPad, as well as conducting real time mission-critical data analytics thro |
| FA8649-23-P-1003 | Electrochemical Biosensor Based Rapid Diagnostic Platform for Quantitative Detection Controlled Substance Related Metabolites | $749,516 | FOOTHOLD LABS INC | STTR | Phase II | AFX20D-TCSO1 | 08/15/2023 | 02/17/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Electrochemistry-based sensors have been shown to provide reliable, rugged, low-cost solutions for analyte detection. Common uses for electrochemical sensors are smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, industrial gas sensors, and insulin monitors. However, e |
| FA8649-23-P-0345 | ICS-SCADA for the 688th Air Wing Use Case | $74,481 | FORWARD EDGE AI INC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/02/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Forward Edge-AI presents Isidore Quantum™, an appliance with embedded cryptographic and Artificial Intelligence (AI) software built with $125 in commodity off-the-shelf parts. Isidore: (1) brings high-assurance, and quantum-resistant cryptography to edge devices; (2) can be integrated into any edge device, tactical data network, sensor, nanosatellite, or any use case that requires zero trust and protection of data in transit. Isidore is co-developed with Bowie State University under a National Security Agency (NSA) Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). This innovation delivers Resilient Information Sharing for 688th Cyber Wing. |
| FA8649-23-P-0397 | Space Communications Security for Space COMSEC Use Case | $74,481 | FORWARD EDGE AI INC | STTR | Phase I | X22D-OTCSO1 | 11/07/2022 | 02/07/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Forward Edge-AI presents Isidore Quantum™, a device with embedded cryptographic and Artificial Intelligence (AI) software built with $125 in commodity off-the-shelf parts. Isidore: (1) brings high-assurance, and quantum-resistant cryptography to edge devices; (2) can be integrated into any edge platform or device, tactical data network, sensor, nanosatellite, or any use case that requires zero trust and protection of data in transit. Isidore is co-developed under a National Security Agency (NSA), Forward Edge-AI, Inc., and Bowie State University Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). This innovation delivers Resilient Information Sharing for Space COMSEC. |
| FA8649-23-P-1259 | ISIDORE LOW COST AND SWAP SPACE COMMUNICATIONS SECURITY (COMSEC) | $1,169,914 | FORWARD EDGE AI INC | STTR | Phase II | X22D-OTCSO1 | 09/13/2023 | 06/13/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Attacking the baseband radio interface that CubeSat Command and Control (C2), and data links rely upon has been well documented for some time. Any wireless infrastructure on an orbital platform is a large attack surface and because of its size, this is a |
| FA8649-23-P-0146 | ICS-SCADA for the 688th Air Wing Use Case | $74,481 | FORWARD EDGE AI INC | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/04/2022 | 02/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Forward Edge-AI presents Isidore Quantum™, an appliance with embedded cryptographic and Artificial Intelligence (AI) software built with $125 in commodity off-the-shelf parts. Isidore: (1) brings high-assurance, and quantum-resistant cryptography to edge devices; (2) can be integrated into any edge device, tactical data network, sensor, nanosatellite, or any use case that requires zero trust and protection of data in transit. Isidore is co-developed with Bowie State University under a National Security Agency (NSA) Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). This innovation delivers Resilient Information Sharing for the 688th Cyber Wing. |
| FA8649-23-P-0006 | ICS-SCADA for the 688th Air Wing Use Case | $1,237,977 | FORWARD EDGE AI INC | SBIR | Phase II | X224-ODCSO1 | 01/03/2023 | 12/04/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This solution addresses the Tech Focus Areas of Microelectronics and Cybersecurity. On April 13, 2022, the Cybersecurity, and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Department of Energy (DOE), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and National Security Agency (NSA) issued a rare joint alert that Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actors had gained full system access to multiple industrial control systems including Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and IoT devices with the goal of disabling US energy infrastructure. In August 2019 Microsoft reported that hackers working for the Russian government were using printers, video decoders, and other IoT devices as a beachhead to penetrate targeted computer networks. In May 2019, the Mirai botnet was found using a total of 13 different exploits to target routers and other IoT devices. In addition, in August 2018, CNET warned that hacked appliances like air conditioners could bring down a state’s power grid. Vulnerabilities to US critical infrastructure are rooted in the limitations of existing network-protection systems; gateways and firewalls can become compromised. Static firewalls are not device-specific and cannot adapt to changing security states. Some of these challenges are due to the low-cost and high-volume nature of IoT and SCADA devices. High Assurance, NSA endorsed cryptographic products that can provide IoT/SCADA security, can range from $10K per unit to $2M per unit. As a result, it is currently not economically feasible to protect these devices against both classical and quantum level attacks. Forward Edge-AI is also augmenting a commodity chip with a Real-Time Machine Learner (Artificial Intelligence) capability to understand the patterns of life for a facility, its data network, as well as its devices and users, to identify subtle deviations indicative of an emerging attack. Isidore will also be able to defend against attacks by executing an “immune system” response to stop threatening activity as it occurs. |
| FA9451-23-P-A027 | High Brightness Illuminator Using Wavelength Beam Combination | $150,000 | FORWARD PHOTONICS LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AF224-0005 | 04/14/2023 | 01/14/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In this program, Forward Photonics (FP) will team with the University of Central Florida (UCF), specifically Dr. Arkadiy Lyakh, and IRGLARE, to further increase the available single-mode output power available per device from the previously mentioned 2.5 |
| FA8649-23-P-0499 | Next Generation Beyond Line of Sight Backhaul in support of Air Force Special Operations Command | $1,249,800 | [ FOURTH STATE COMMUNICATIONS, LLC] | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/07/2023 | 11/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Fourth State Communications’ Enhanced Thermo-Scatter System (ETSS) capability is the high-speed (200MBPS), omnidirectional, low-cost, resilient over-the-horizon (2000 miles) communications solution allowing the Air Force and its Special Operations Command |
| 6SVL4-23-C-0003 | Solid State High Energy Density Batteries | $1,315,000 | FRAMERGY INC | SBIR | Phase II | SOCOM222-001 | 02/10/2023 | 02/28/2024 | Department of Defense | Special Operations Command | Modern lithium ion batteries are known for their poor safety performance, with many reports of battery failure and fire having been reported. One of the major causes of battery fire is from the use of flammable solvents, such as organic carbonates, as the electrolyte. These hazards have long limited the usage of batteries in dangerous conditions, such as on the battlefield. To combat this issue, the team at framergy and the University of Louisville (UoL) have teamed up to develop a series of battery materials that are based upon the combination of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and deep eutectic solvents (DESs). DES are known for the low vapor pressures and flammability, something that has made them materials of interest in fire resistance applications. Meanwhile, MOFs are highly porous, tunable materials that are known for their strong ability to interact with guest molecules, engendering them with high ionic conductivities. By combining these two materials, the team has shown that next generation batteries can be achieved that have high charge/discharge cyclic efficiency, while also eliminating the problem of electrolyte flammability. |
| N68335-23-C-0414 | HIGH TEMPERATURE, LOW DIELECTRIC CONSTANT CERAMIC FIBERS FOR MISSILE APPLICATIONS | $1,199,998 | FREE FORM FIBERS L.L.C. | SBIR | Phase II | N211-059 | 06/20/2023 | 06/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | The technology that has sustained tactical missile radomes and other electromagnetic windows is being outpaced by the increasingly challenging thermal, environmental and structural demands of hypersonic flights. New engineered materials, that exceed state-of-the-art capabilities are required to support the next generation of hypersonic vehicles. Silicon nitride is the next-generation material candidate. However, silicon nitride is a ceramic material. As such, it is a strong yet brittle material that can fail catastrophically. The prevention of catastrophic failure necessarily relies on Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC) technology, an engineered material consisting of fiber reinforcements embedded within a ceramic matrix, in this instance, silicon nitride fibers. This proposal addresses a void in the market: There are no commercially available silicon nitride fibers, and for good reasons. How does one make fibers with a material that does not melt, does not soften, and does not tolerate the presence of impurities at high temperatures? Free Form Fibers does it with lasers. Our proprietary fiber laser printing technology has been used to produce like materials, such a silicon carbide. Under the proposed project, Free Form Fibers will seek to adapt its fiber laser printing technology to the fabrication of fabrication of silicon nitride fibers. Once this goal is reached, Free Form Fibers will move toward establishing a domestic fiber production capacity. In parallel, Free Form Fibers will seek to establish a prototype production demonstration for silicon nitride CMC components. |
| FA2394-23-C-B044 | Multifunctional Structures for Extreme Environments made by Laser CVD | $1,248,165 | FREE FORM FIBERS L.L.C. | SBIR | Phase II | AF224-D022 | 07/27/2023 | 01/10/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Department of the Air Force is requesting support for long-term needs with regards to shape-stability in extreme environments via a high-pressure chemical vapor deposition process that enables both fine features for transpiration, but also enables eas |
| FA8649-23-P-0228 | Powered Parafoil Munitions Delivery System (PP-MDS) | $74,988 | [ FREEDOM FLIGHT WORKS, INC.] | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 01/31/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Effective use of long range precision fires has proven critical to the successful execution of modern military operations. The current conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated the important role precision fires play on the battlefield and the continued need for their development to maintain an edge over potential adversaries. While the U.S. military used them to great effect in Iraq and Afghanistan, there is clear demand for new systems that are better suited to the requirements of Air Force operations conducted in contested environments. Operating under these conditions will require larger numbers of inexpensive, low-end systems to augment high-end platforms to increase adaptability and the capacity to absorb losses; requirements that are not met by current systems. Freedom Flight proposes the development of Powered Parafoil Munitions Delivery System (PP-MDS), whereby low-cost munitions pallets could be launched as a swarm and autonomously navigated to their destination where Air Force personnel would then direct their fires onto target via satellite datalink. PP-MDS is low-cost and simple to operate, enabling swarm and picket line tactics with assets organic to the unit level. PP-MDS can integrate with Battlefield Management System (BMS), Common Launch Tube (CLT), and can carry a variety of Air Force munitions packages. A key advantage of PP-MDS is its attritability and low cost of acquisition, enabling it to be fielded in much larger numbers than alternative platforms. PP-MDS could be used in ‘swarms’ to congregate around a target or loiter for some time before weapons launch, for use against hidden targets that emerge for only short periods. Powered parafoil flight is well-suited to munitions delivery because of their slower speeds for detailed observation of the target environment, high fuel fraction enabling exceptional persistence on station, and because of their low cost, compactness, and often comparatively favorable acoustic, radar, and thermal signatures. PP-MDS will complement existing munitions delivery systems by broadening the Air Force’s precision fires portfolio, further complicating enemy A2/AD arrangements. In addition, PP-MDS will be highly modular and reconfigurable for use in ISR, remote sensor emplacement, and aerial cargo delivery operations. Based on mission need, the system’s propulsion unit can be replaced to either increase its range, further reduce its observability, or increase its attritability. |
| 140D0423C0067 | High- Efficiency Kw-class 1550 nm Steerable Diffraction-Limited Laser Diode Arrays for Energy Web Dominance | $1,249,763 | FREEDOM PHOTONICS LLC | STTR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-29 | 08/30/2023 | 08/29/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | DARPA is interested in technologies which enable safe optical power beaming systems. High-efficiency wireless power transmission by a directed optical beam will greatly enhance military capabilities by enabling a multi-node wireless energy web. We are developing high efficiency semiconductor lasers at 1550 nm which are directly suitable for power beaming. Our laser array technology is at an eye-safe wavelength and has nearly diffraction-limited beam quality, which enables efficient transmission over long distances. The semiconductor laser array will be integrated with a fully passive coherent beam combination architecture based on a Fourier Injected Resonator (FIRE) cavity. Our disruptive direct diode solution eliminates the need for the inefficient brightness conversion of fiber-based or solid-state laser systems, while maintaining brightness, power, and efficiency, making our technology the perfect candidate for addressing the power beaming technology gap. |
| FA8649-23-P-1131 | Powered Parafoil Munitions Delivery System (PP-MDS) | $1,249,426 | [ FREEDOM FLIGHT WORKS, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 09/29/2023 | 06/30/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Freedom Flight Works’ (FFW) Powered Parafoil Munitions Delivery System (PP-MDS) builds on the foundation of the Joint Precision Aerial Delivery System (JPADS) family of air-dropped, guided parachutes built for cargo delivery. FFW is adding integrated pro |
| HQ0860-23-C-7138 | State-Vector Density Functional Method for Kill Assessment | $1,338,430 | FREENT TECHNOLOGIES, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | MDA16-001 | 07/10/2023 | 07/09/2025 | Department of Defense | Missile Defense Agency | During previous Phase II and Phase II Enhancement contracts, FreEnt built upon earlier Phase I mathematical concepts for the State Vector Density Functional (SVDF) approach. Under These efforts the SVDF approach was developed into a rigorous mathematical formalism for performing Post Intercept Assessment (PIA). During the Phase II Enhancement the SVDF mathematical formalism was matured and the technique was demonstrated using simulated IR/RF data. This Second Phase II effort is to develop and demonstrate an improved SVDF algorithm which will be optimized in terms of parameter selection for data analysis and will employ additional RF and IR features. It will also incorporate statistically normalized state vectors for improved discrimination. An SVDF software module will also be developed having seamless interfacing with post-intercept databases. This new SVDF algorithm will be augmented by employing RTI image correlations to confirm the SVDF hit-condition decision. SVDF analysis incorporating statistically normalized state vectors, RTI correlation, and additional RF/IR signal processing will provide a more robust PIA capability and improve near real-time intercept event assessment. The end state of this work will be an SVDF module suitable for integration in to a higher PIA architectural framework. Approved for Public Release | 22-MDA-11339 (13 Dec 22) |
| W911QY-23-P-0011 | ExoJETS: Exoskeletal Jump Thrust System | $111,460 | FTL LABS CORP | SBIR | Phase I | A22-015 | 11/28/2022 | 05/27/2023 | Department of Defense | Army | Combat parachute jumping is a high-risk activity, with significant potential for injuries that require time and resources to resolve, slowing the unit down, and increasing their risk of being attacked. The Army seeks the development of an exoskeleton system that mitigates Parachute Landing Fall (PLF) forces experienced by Warfighters with the goal of reducing injuries. These PLF injuries are closely correlated with touch points, where the body of the subject impacts the ground, which include feet, calf, thigh, rear, and back. While exoskeletons have been used successfully to absorb energy associated with high joint torques, a detailed analysis shows that any system that increases overall weight without compensating for added impact in ALL touch points has a greater likelihood of actually INCREASING injury probability and severity than no system at all. Therefore, short of creating a full-body exoskeleton, which is not feasible for this application, the key challenge in the design of a PLF-injury-mitigating exoskeleton is to reduce impact force below what would be present with no exoskeleton. FTL’s ExoJETS is a powerful new enabling technology for injury mitigation and data logging during a parachute landing. ExoJETS mitigates injury during a parachute landing by reducing the landing velocity just before touch down. ExoJETS is compact system that includes environmental sensing for control and IMUs for biomechanics logging. It is also compatible existing assistive exoskeleton systems for rapid landing zone departure and assisting loaded movement to the aircraft. ExoJET’s body-worn sensors collect real-time data on the biomechanics of para-jumping to provide unit training insight to both Warfighters and Military Units and potentially inform proper or dangerous landing techniques. |
| N64267-23-C-0014 | DADTMA Gen3 - Distributed Acquisition Digital Twin Maintenance Architecture | $1,499,922 | FTL LABS CORP | SBIR | Phase II | N204-A01 | 09/12/2023 | 09/12/2025 | Department of Defense | Navy | Digital twins can be imagined as virtual, continuously-learning digital representations of physical assets. Such simulations have the potential to marry virtual and physical understanding of assets such that analog data from the physical product and its surrounding sustainment ecosystem is converted into digital data that is stored, analyzed, modeled, and learned by artificial neural networks (NNs) and other automation algorithms. When implemented as a big-data relational database, this framework allows prediction, trending, query, and analysis of the digital twin model to an extent that would be impossible on the actual product alone. FTL's “DADTMA” (Distributed Acquisition Digital Twin Maintenance Ecosystem) is a comprehensive architecture for curating a Machine Learning (ML) driven database of any product to perceive current condition, simulate possible performance scenarios, and predict impending failures. DADTMA enables novel database technology that enables data captured on the depot floor to automate data collection, project future outcomes, and provide profound situational awareness across a fleet of assets. This results in a physical-virtual-physical ecosystem that leads to improved mission readiness of Naval aviation products. |
| HT9425-23-C-0031 | SonoPod | $1,099,897 | FTL LABS CORP | SBIR | Phase II | DHA221-002 | 04/28/2023 | 08/27/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Hearing protection devices (HPD) can prevent occupational hearing loss among military and civilian personnel by reducing noise exposure, but only if properly fitted. Current best practice HPD fit testing is time and labor intensive, requiring a real ear attenuation threshold (REAT) test in an audiometric booth. While commercially available systems exist that can test subjects outside an audiometry booth, they are limited to testing one subject at a time. FTL Labs Corporation's SonoPod addresses this issue within the DoD by providing a portable fit-test system for hearing protection devices (HPDs) that can simultaneously test multiple people in a variety of settings. SonoPod applies emerging clinical test methods, speaker design, and room-correction algorithms to ensure reliable, repeatable, and efficient HPD fit checks in a variety of settings and noise landscapes. The system broadcasts test signals for scalable multi-person testing and receives user feedback on whether shared stimuli were heard. SonoPod also has a variety of options for presenting stimuli for settings that are too noisy or disruptive. SonoPod can be field-calibrated for quantitative results in a variety of spaces, can work with any style and any manufacturer’s HPD, and can provide Personal Attenuation Ratings (PAR) results that can viewed real time by a test proctor and uploaded to health and safety records. The technology, when implemented, will allow a significant enhancement in the U.S. Department of Defense’s and other OSHA compliant Hearing Conservation Programs by providing a method to quickly verify proper HPD fit in large groups of people as a daily routine task. In addition, SonoPod can be used by clinical audiologists to check hearing with individuals who can't use traditional audiologist headphones and to check OSHA related requirements on HPD fit at construction job sites and other loud workplaces. |
| HDTRA1-23-P-0015 | FRAMER: Fast Reconstruction of Architectural Models from Existing Resources | $182,894 | FTL LABS CORP | SBIR | Phase I | CBD222-005 | 05/22/2023 | 12/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Office for Chemical and Biological Defense | FTL Labs Corporation, together with collaborators at the National Institute of Standards and Technology and University of Massachusetts professor Dr. Evangelos Kalogerakis, proposes a powerful new system for automatic 3D building model synthesis. FTL's “FRAMER” (Fast Reconstruction of Architectural Models from Existing Resources) system is designed to be flexible, fast, and accurate. It combines specially trained neural networks with advanced 3D processing algorithms and intelligent data exports to enable high quality building model generation from both blueprints and photographs, and parameter exports for accurate transport and dispersion simulation. FTL will leverage its ongoing research utilizing neural networks for image and 3D data processing, object detection, and high-quality 3D model generation for rapid development. This will enable early demonstration of a software system that provides the highest fidelity 3D building models based on the data used as input and the most accurate possible exports to AR and VR applications, in addition to T&D software such as NIST’s CONTAM. Blueprints constitute a unique problem for neural networks due to their widely varying range of quality, frequent lack of relevant information, and ambiguous distinctions between room types. FTL overcomes these challenges with a unique synthetic data training step that leverages Dr. Kalogerakis’s research with a large dataset of accurate and annotated building models proven to increase neural network accuracy for building part and object detection. This data, which will be extended to include accurate blueprint output, enables new and existing neural networks to be trained easily and repeatedly, increasing the robustness of detection for typical objects such as walls, doors, and windows. The result of this NN-processed blueprint is a data structure containing all the building’s relevant features, from which a 3D building model can be procedurally generated. FRAMER’s generated 3D models will optionally be segmented and include objects labeled using state of the art neural network research, bringing a richer experience to the existing virtual and augmented reality applications in use at CBD. These key developments also include the use of an additional neural network to automatically augment a 3D indoor scene with new objects and furnishings that match their surroundings. This exciting research will enable FRAMER to provide true-to-life indoor building areas even when photos or scans of those rooms do not exist. Through FTL’s collaboration with the developers of CONTAM at NIST, FRAMER’s exported building parameters will support high quality transport and dispersion modeling. The exported building data will be usable directly in CONTAM through the creation of building templates and automatic editing of project files. Additionally, FTL will leverage its extensive experience with the development of AR and VR applications for FRAMER’s high fidelity 3D building model exports. |
| N68335-23-C-0174 | SHR3DR - Sub-seafloor High Resolution 3D Reconstruction | $246,436 | FTL LABS CORP | SBIR | Phase I | N224-129 | 12/28/2022 | 02/08/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | FTL’s SHR3DR (Sub-seafloor High Resolution 3D Reconstruction) is a specialized geophone-based sensor and processing system that simplifies the evaluation of salt-saturated sediments and other structural configurations typical of waterfront facilities, achieving 80 feet of penetration below the mudline in water depths to 90 feet. It applies AI/ML analysis of seismograph data, to assist in determining morphology, location, and dimension of subterranean voids and structures for Port Damage Repair (PDR) operations, including Port/Harbor/Shipyard assessment, performed by several Navy organizations (NECC, UCT, NMCB). SHR3DR enables the inspection of waterfront facilities ( including piers, wharfs, relieving-platforms, other shipyard structures) for voids (structural and soil), structures (piles, pile-caps, beams, deck), and stability (load capacity, limits). Working closely with established manufacturers of seismic surveying equipment, SHR3DR will be a Government-off-the-shelf (GOTS) and commercial product that enables nondestructive investigation (classification, quantification, location, dimension) of sub-seafloor structures, voids, and construction patterns. It leverages FTL’s 2D and 3D computer vision and machine learning pipeline developed for automated inspection of Navy piers. It combines cutting-edge seismic imaging hardware with mature geotechnical investigation approaches to provide unique 3D awareness around and below shoreline facilities. |
| N68335-23-C-0532 | SDARIT - Structural Damage and Repair Inferencing Tool | $499,912 | FTL LABS CORP | SBIR | Phase II | N213-140 | 07/20/2023 | 07/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | FTL's “Structural Damage And Repair Inferencing Tool (SDARIT)” leverages FTL’s 2D and 3D computer vision and machine learning pipeline. It provides an automated pier repair planning tool that accepts inputs from remote sensing systems and is capable of identification, volume approximation, location, and tabular summation of defects, all approximated from conventional construction practices. SDARIT can inventory individual structural elements and indicate certain types of damage including battle damage, explosive effects, scouring, and fatigue while requiring only raw point clouds as input, acquired in the field through either manned or unmanned surveys. This system addresses an immediate Navy need for Port Damage Repair (PDR), which commonly includes gathering of 3D point clouds. Currently, all key details of the scanned data are interpreted and entered through a process that is both manual and laborious. FTL proposes that this bottleneck can be alleviated by automatically converting structural 3D scan data into actionable Battle Damage Assessments (BDAs). SDARIT combines classically-coded algorithmic point cloud dissection and pattern manipulation with neural network part detection and damage recognition. It does not rely on libraries of pre-modelled mechanical components, but addresses the inherent variability and lack of uniformity, precision, and accuracy in port structures. SDARIT will deliver volumetric construction details on both existing and missing components, while differentiating design variability from gross defects and battle damage. |
| N68335-23-C-0682 | SharpScan: Improved Resolution COTs based Small-Aperture Marine RADAR | $599,787 | FTL LABS CORP | SBIR | Phase II | N211-042 | 08/31/2023 | 09/15/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | FTL’s SharpScan is an innovative, improved-angular-resolution, COTS-based magnetron radar that is modified to be coherent-on-receive, providing access to emerging coherent-radar processing approaches for increased resolution and Doppler shift extraction. Coherent radar processing is an enabling technology that provides higher signal to noise ratio (SNR), reduces target uncertainty, and allows for the Doppler effect to be used to reduce the influence of static clutter and provide more information on each target than that can be gained without coherent returns. Utilizing Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) technology to perform high speed sampling and apply cutting edge digital signal processing techniques, SharpScan not only provides real time radar imaging at high resolution but also provides relative velocity as an additional degree of freedom that can prevent tracking software confusion and aid in buoy discrimination. SharpScan enables the Navy to use small, low-cost Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) marine radars to achieve the needed long range and high output power radar imaging for at sea navigation, but with the higher resolutions achieved in larger, more expensive radar systems. The SharpScan technology can be directly retrofitted to the presently fielded submarine navigation radar and any other magnetron-based radar system for dramatic imaging and target indication improvements, making SharpScan a high value proposition with low incremental cost. |
| N68335-23-C-0052 | AM4Sight: Additive Manufacturing, Model-based, Multi-resolution, Machine Learning defect risk visualization tool | $139,976 | FTL LABS CORP | SBIR | Phase I | N222-117 | 11/07/2022 | 05/09/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | While AM systems, especially metal AM, bring revolutionary capabilities and have the potential to reduce supply chain issues and enable new designs through unique layer-by-layer fabrication capabilities, AM technologies currently suffer from defects that exist within the components. Defects such as porosity, inclusions, large-scale voids, and chemical inconsistencies can inhibit the functional performance of a part and reduce confidence in designing parts for AM. While NDE methods exist to identify defects, such as X-ray CT, they are very costly and time consuming. FTL's previous work, Volumetric AM Metadata Engine (VAME), is Air Force-funded analysis software that provides a framework for AM knowledge capture that is adaptable to different metallic AM processes and design pipelines. Building on that code base, the proposed AM4Sight (AM4 refers to AM-targeted Model-based, Multi-resolution, Machine Learning) tool adds novel 3D build-time data aggregation, Machine Learning (ML) defect detection, and probabilistic defect risk mapping to guide the CT operator and test designer, improving the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and successfulness of AM NDE/I. AM4Sight uses FTL’s voxel visualization engine to identify the probability of a defect at every volume sample of the resulting AM part, as well as the severity of the defect in terms of associated failure modes of the part while in service. This provides “foresight” of defect type and location to the NDE/I technician to guide decisions on resolution, integration time, and test setup. This is a significant improvement to current commercial efforts to quantify the effects of defects on additively manufactured components focus on “brute force” testing, with an emphasis on expensive destructive testing to qualify a printed component. |
| W51701-23-C-0035 | Alane-powered Carbon-Free 50W Soldier Power Generator (C-SPG) | $1,699,175 | FUELX INNOVATION INC | SBIR | Phase II | A224-020 | 04/25/2023 | 10/31/2024 | Department of Defense | Army | Redacted |
| FA9550-23-P-0003 | Design of an Energetic Particle Detector (FT-EPD) for CubeSat Deployment | $150,000 | FUNDAMENTAL TECHNOLOGIES LLC | SBIR | Phase I | SF222-0017 | 03/15/2023 | 12/14/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | One of the remaining significant components of understanding Space Weather, and its impact on assets in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), is an understanding of the physics that governs the coupling of the Earth’s Magnetosphere and the Ionosphere or M-I Coupling. I |
| N68335-23-C-0482 | STANAG 7221 IP Data Transport System | $139,933 | FUSE INTEGRATION, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-008 | 07/13/2023 | 01/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | MIL-STD-1553 specification defines the electrical characteristics of the receivers, transmitters, and cable used to implement the bus, as well as the message protocol. The spectrum on the physical bus occupied by the MIL-STD-1553 protocol is less than 15 Mhz. MIL-STD-1553 has two major limitations. Firstly, it is limited to 1 megabit per second communication bandwidth. While this was considered quite fast in 1973, greater communication bandwidth is required for current compute centric architectures. Secondly, there is no standardized interface for software to use when communicating via MIL-STD-1553. Most software using the MIL-STD-1553 bus needs to be customized for the specific MIL-STD-1553 implementation in use. In 2016 NATO Standard Agreement (STANAG) 7221 for Broadband, Real-Time Data Bus (BRTDB) was introduced. This standard defines a method for using a MIL-STD-1553 compliant bus to provide up to 100Mbps of additional capacity as a separate, independent binary data transport. Thus, STANAG 7221 fixes one of the major shortcomings of MIL-STD-1553, by providing substantially improved communication bandwidth. The problem with the lack of a standardized interface to the hardware remains though—software utilizing the 7221 bus must be customized to a specific vendor’s implementation. Thus, there is a need in the industry for a standardized interface to high-speed, high-reliability communication hardware for military communication aboard aircraft and other platforms. |
| N68335-23-C-0513 | BEDLAM | $139,978 | FUSE INTEGRATION, INC. | SBIR | Phase I | N231-015 | 07/10/2023 | 01/09/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | This SBIR strives to create a new open architecture technology integration toolchain and collaboration environment for BMA developers, the BedlamOS workshop, which will contain a library of microservices and associated data structures which can be leveraged by government efforts. Developers will have access to a validated, integrated set of BedlamOS microservices ready to be easily composed to create a powerful BMA application. An initial set of microservices will include map data services, timing services, navigational signals, own-ship position service and user identity management services. The modern microservice architecture model advocates a design which features loosely coupled, fine grained services, communicating via lightweight protocols instead of a large monolithic application. |
| N68335-23-C-0143 | Efficient Numerical Methodologies for TPS Hardware-in-the-Loop Simulations | $139,819 | [ Falcon Dancer Incorporated] | SBIR | Phase I | N222-123 | 11/28/2022 | 05/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Navy | In this effort Falcon Dancer Inc and our partner, Kord Technologies LLC, will apply an aerothermal heating methodology developed for the design and analysis of high-speed systems to operate efficiently within U.S. Navy Hardware-In-the-Loop (HIL) simulation software. We use historically anchored, fast running local correlations to predict aerodynamic heating. The model is currently implemented as MATLAB based tool set which is used to obtain surface heating rates and skin temperatures for hypersonic vehicles. The software calculates three-dimensional stagnation heating rates and temperatures, and two-dimensional stagnation heating rates and temperatures with and without leading-edge sweep. In addition, it calculates lower and upper surface heating rates and temperatures for flat plates, wedges, and cones. Laminar and turbulent heating rates and temperatures can be calculated, with boundary-layer transition controlled as a function of free-stream Reynolds number and free-stream Mach number or a user supplied routine. The code uses time histories of altitude, Mach number, and angle of attack and roll angle along with a MATLAB 1977 standard atmosphere program to obtain the free-stream properties required to make the calculations. To increase accuracy the model is trained using machine learning on ’authoritative truth data’ such as high-fidelity CFD predictions, stability analysis, and/or wind tunnel measurements. The model may be efficiently used with 0D and 1D reduced order models or can be tightly coupled to FEM solvers. The highly integrated and robust technical approach used in this effort will support the TRL maturation of TPS systems using new/novel materials. A typical scenario involves model and device fabrication, computational modeling, testing and final TRL assessment. The key guiding philosophy in our approach will be to develop a “digital thread/digital twin” which incorporates all the informational knowledge gathered in the design and validation of a TPS into a verifiable mathematical model. These models may then be combined with system level analysis tools to verify the TRL of the proposed vehicle design and to support the final TRL maturation in Phase III. We will work closely with the US Navy to develop a software plan to port the methodology to existing HIL Software framework. This design plan will include software System Requirements Review, Preliminary Design Review and Critical Design Review. A detailed plan will be developed for gathering the information needed from new material developments to support HIL testing. |
| FA9422-23-C-0004 | Remotely Activated Lithium Reserve Battery Empowering Missile Guidance Set | $1,799,994 | Faraday Technology, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AF231-D005 | 06/05/2023 | 06/05/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This program addresses the need for a remotely activated lithium reserve battery to empower the Missile Guidance Set for the Minuteman II ICBM. The proposed innovative reserve battery relies on an electrochemical aperture for both electrolyte storage and |
| FA8649-23-P-0514 | In-Field Repair of Coatings on Aircraft Systems with Enhanced Adhesion and Corrosion Resistance | $1,249,995 | Faraday Technology, Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | AFX234-DCSO2 | 02/08/2023 | 08/12/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | A joint effort between Faraday Technology, LumiShield, and ES3 will develop an in-field pretreatment process for enhanced corrosion resistance and paint adhesion on aluminum and steel substrates, to replace chromate conversion coatings and primers current |
| N68335-23-C-0392 | Improved Electrochemical Machining of Next-Generation Alloys for Turbine Engine Components Through Enhanced Tool Design | $146,498 | Faraday Technology, Inc. | STTR | Phase I | N23A-T019 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | This project will enhance the electrochemical machining process by improving pulse-reverse waveform design to enable ECM on next-generation alloys such as niobium C103 and improve tool design predictions through ECM simulation. Phase I will create a proof-of-concept demonstration of the use of optimal control theory for improving pulse-reverse waveform design on a C103 alloy. Waveform design will be used to maximize material dissolution rates (machining rates), reduce energy costs, and improve the fidelity between workpiece and tool shape. Electrochemical material-response data collected on the C103 alloy system as a function of pulse-reverse waveforms, along with a Multiphysics finite element model, will be used to create an accurate simulation of the ECM process during pulse-reverse operation. This modeling capability will improve the ability to perform predictions of tool designs needed to achieve given part shapes and reduce the non-recurring engineering expenses of ECM process design. Further work will show the feasibility to generalize the process control methodology for alternative materials of interest for turbine engine components. The end result will be a material-response database and technical know-how that enable enhanced predictions of tool shapes and operational inputs for pulse-reverse ECM processes on next-generation materials. |
| FA9451-23-P-A010 | On-Demand Additive Manufacturing of Astronomical Mirrors | $149,999 | Faraday Technology, Inc. | STTR | Phase I | AF22A-T002 | 12/30/2022 | 09/29/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The proposed technology will meet the Air Force’s need for new techniques to allow 3D printing at nanometer scales to produce astronomical parabolic/spherical mirrors requiring little to no figuring or modification to achieve the form fidelity, surface finish, and reflectance. Astronomical mirrors are traditionally produced via a combined casting, diamond turning, and coating approach that is time consuming, expensive, and yields a heavy cumbersome solid mirror structure for large numerical apertures. Additionally, when attempts have been made to lightweight these large mirrors, the centrifugal forces from diamond turning leads to residual stresses and distortions in the mirrors optical properties. The proposed technology is a two-step on-demand manufacturing approach to directly print and finish lightweight astronomical mirrors. Additive manufacturing will produce the mirror platform and non-contact electrochemical polishing will be used to create the mirror surface. Once the methodology to produce high quality mirrors is understood, we will evaluate the potential of incorporating support structures that can greatly reduce the weight of the mirror. As the successful completion of this activity, the manufacturing lead times and the cost to produce lightweight astronomical mirrors of interest to the Air Force, Space Force, and our commercial partners will be greatly reduced. |
| FA9453-23-P-A007 | On-Demand, Variable IR Emissivity Device for Thermal Control of Spacecraft | $149,997 | Faraday Technology, Inc. | STTR | Phase I | SF22B-T003 | 12/13/2022 | 03/19/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This program will result in a device for continuously variable emissivity for thermal control of orbital assets. The device will control radiative heat transfer through use of reversible metallic coatings that control the emissivity state of the device to best match variable heat loads arising from orbital positioning and/or fluctuating heat loads within the orbital asset. The device will offer the benefits of low size, weight and power, on-demand operation, independent localized emissivity control, and be capable of tunable, autonomous control. A high level of thermal control is anticipated, since the device will be capable of adopting any number of emissivity states between high and low states, and control different portions of the orbital asset independently. The simple, robust design will easily integrate with existing spacecraft and enable extended use in space environments. The device will enable autonomous control for high performance, remote operation. Phase I includes design and development of the electrodes that will enable formation and removal of the reversible metallic coatings, identification of the operational parameters needed to demonstrate variable emissivity states, and preliminary assessments of size, weight and power, as well as integration considerations. Phase II will develop and package prototype devices for space qualification testing. |
| HR001123C0152 | Wearables at the Edge for Monitoring Warfighter Health and Readiness | $1,800,000 | [ Fenix Research Corporation] | SBIR | Phase II | HR0011SB20234-05 | 09/15/2023 | 09/15/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | In the proposed program, we will develop and implement a secure framework for low-power acquisition, processing and analysis of physiological and environmental sensor signals from wearable devices. The multi-parameter signals will be used to effectively monitor the warfighter’s health and operational readiness at the edge. We will accomplish the program objective by leveraging the advancements in processing and power management in modern consumer-driven wearable devices and smartphones. The framework involves the optimal distribution of the computational requirements over the hierarchical computational resources in the devices. This will involve optimal implementation of software in low-power microcontrollers (MCU) as well as high-performance application processors (AP). It also involves the separation of computational tasks between different devices (e.g., between smartwatch and smartphone). The framework will include the implementation of application programming interfaces (API) that allows efficient implementation of signal processing and algorithms. Based on the framework for data acquisition, processing, and analysis, we will build a health anomaly detection system. The system will passively and continuously identify health anomalies based on continuous physiological and environmental sensor data. We will evaluate the system while the warfighter is engaged in various activities expected during operational deployment, ranging in activity levels from sleep and rest to engagement in battlefield scenarios. The system will be tested with warfighters in a healthy state, as well as in scenarios that involve the onset of serious medical conditions that can be encountered in battlefield environments. The overall objective is to support DoD’s requirement to monitor and assess the warfighter’s health and operational readiness, based on physiological and environmental sensor data from wearable devices at the edge. |
| N68335-23-C-0469 | Adapted SlateSafety BAND to monitor heat stress for ground forces | $146,472 | [www.firehud.co FireHUD, Inc.] | SBIR | Phase I | N231-057 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | The goal of this SBIR is to develop a Heat Injury Prevention System (HIPS) kit that provides technologies for real-time monitoring to prevent exertional heat illness in a training environment, at scale, for active-duty service members – specifically for Marine Corps and Army personnel. The proposed work for Phase I would involve the development of a prototype HIPS kit that can be used to test, collect feedback, and conduct research. The plan is then to use the feedback and research to shape the design of the next iteration HIPS system to be manufactured during a potential Phase II. The unique advantage to SlateSafety’s proposal is that we already have a commercialized armband wearable with over 1000 devices in the field today that aims to prevent injuries or deaths due to heat stress and overexertion in real-time. Because of this, the SlateSafety platform already accomplishes many of the stated requirements and only needs adaptations in order to exceed the requirements as opposed to a completely new design. The main goal of this SBIR technical effort is to prototype these adaptations with the BAND V2. The BAND V2 is capable of running new algorithms and can be updated very simply and quickly over the air. With the planned work in this SBIR, the SlateSafety BAND V2 aims to run government furnished exertional heat illness (EHI) risk algorithms and become a valuable tool for researchers to further develop these algorithms. Overall, the BAND V2 is a wearable armband that aims to prevent injuries or deaths due to heat stress and overexertion in real-time. The BAND V2 can measure heart rate, core temperature, exertion, calories burned, step count, resting heart rate, heart rate variability, and comes equipped with the ability to turn off or on GPS location, fall detection, a panic button, and more. SlateSafety’s BAND V2 is specifically designed to withstand rugged environments in an unobtrusive manner. The strap goes around the wearer’s upper arm, making it easy to use while still wearing clothing and performing various activities. The BAND V2 is simple to put on and the entire system from the chargers to the straps to the software are built for large scale deployments of 100s or 1000s with minimal management overhead. As our customers say “the device simply works.” |
| FA9453-23-P-A023 | Microfabricated vacuum-packaged Rb vapor cells with tight temperature control | $149,959 | [ FieldLine Industries Inc] | SBIR | Phase I | SF222-0019 | 12/22/2022 | 12/26/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | This project develops a fabrication process for vacuum-packaged MEMS atomic vapor cells with tight temperature control. The package processes and materials are compatible with packaging of highly sensitive magnetometers. The cells will be AR coated and include two independent means of temperature sensing. The package features electrical feedthroughs for heaters and temperature sensors. An important focus will be placed on manufacturability in large volumes and at low cost. In addition, these packaged cells should be useful for a variety of vapor-cell based quantum sensors. |
| HR001123C0119 | SUPER Synthetic User Persona EmulatoR | $1,799,803 | [ Five Directions, Inc] | SBIR | Phase II | HR0011SB20234-02 | 07/13/2023 | 07/13/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Five Directions is pleased to propose to the SUP direct to Phase II program an end-to-end synthetic data generation and labeling framework featuring our user emulation and data labeling prototypes. The Synthetic User Persona EmulatoR (SUPER) will be researched and developed by a team of security experts with experience in endpoint and network telemetry systems and traffic generation, and a passion for furthering cyber defense capabilities and research. Five Directions has previously contributed endpoint expertise to cyber telemetry-oriented DARPA programs such as Transparent Computing (TC) and Cyber Hunting at ScalE (CHASE) and was the originator of the telemetry dataset published under the DARPA Operationally Transparent Cyber (OpTC) transition pilot. SUPER will build upon an existing agentless user emulator and traffic generation prototype developed under the DARPA CHASE program that meets the direct to Phase II requirements. At the end of this Phase II program, SUPER will enable user emulation and traffic generation at scale without creating generational artifacts that could bias collected datasets. SUPER will accomplish this via an agentless solution that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) for screen recognition and creating realistic personas.??????? |
| SP4701-23-C-0027 | Reverse Engineering of Limited Source Items for Source Approval Requests | $1,514,997 | [ Form Fit and Function LLC ] | SBIR | Phase II | DLA172-001 | 06/15/2023 | 07/14/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Logistics Agency | During this project the Reverse Engineering (RE) practices will be applied to develop Technical Data Packages (TDPs) for needed items with limited or no sources of supply, with the ultimate goal of submitting a Source Approval Request (SAR). Using a proven Reverse Engineering and SAR development process, the packages will be developed and submitted to the relevant Engineering Authority. DLA is attempting to develop qualified sources to improve product availability and provide competition for reduced lead time, cost, as well as address lifecycle performance issues. These RE SARs will target these urgently needed items to relieve issues in procuring these items. |
| FA8649-23-P-0280 | Integrated Advanced Manufacturing and Materials for Improved Capabilities of the US Space Force | $74,471 | Foundation Alloy Technology Explorations, Inc | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/03/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Foundation Alloy integrates advanced manufacturing and atomically designed alloys to enable next generation engineering. Leveraging patented materials design methodologies and contemporary 3D printing, Foundation Alloy is building an entirely modern metal part production platform to deliver higher performance, greener metal components backed by a resilient, flexible, and sustainable domestic supply chain. With the combined material and manufacturing advantages, Foundation accelerates the progress and competitiveness of critical technologies to support the future of American defense. |
| FA8649-23-P-0804 | Computer Software to Detect Coordinated Web Activity From Near-Peer Competitors | $73,530 | Fox and Geese LLC | SBIR | Phase I | AFX235-CSO1 | 05/04/2023 | 08/05/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | In Phase I, we will assess the technical viability of an adaptation that will provide DAF with the capability to observe coordinated reactions to events through probabilistic analysis of changes to target adversaries' websites. |
| FA2384-23-P-B001 | Digital Multisensory Augmented Reality for Special Warfare (DMARS) | $149,541 | Fraser Optics Llc | SBIR | Phase I | AF224-0008 | 09/18/2023 | 06/20/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The Air Force has a mission need for digital visual augmentation systems. The Digital Multisensory Augmented Reality for Special Warriors (DMARS) Visualization device for both day and night operations. At present, dismounted special operations forces hav |
| FA8649-23-P-1173 | Autonomous, Multi-Agent Guidance, Navigation, and Control of Free Space Guardian Satellites in Collaborative and Non-Collaborative Scenarios and Degraded Communications Environments | $1,249,982 | Free Space Inc. | SBIR | Phase II | X224-OCSO1 | 08/09/2023 | 05/09/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Spacecraft that will conduct sensitive or classified counterspace, Space Domain Awareness (SDA), and In-Space Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing (ISAM) missions for both collaborative and non-collaborative scenarios must be able to complete a subset or |
| FA8649-23-P-0261 | Autonomous Navigation and Swarming Software for Responsive Counterspace Operations | $74,986 | Free Space Inc. | SBIR | Phase I | X224-OCSO1 | 11/01/2022 | 02/03/2023 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Every day, satellites critical to maintaining U.S space superiority face a multitude of threats. Free Space is developing a suite of defensive space systems, including the Guardian Satellite, and a supporting software suite called Trellis to disrupt actions against critical space assets at an extremely low price point. Free Space Guardian Satellites are required to autonomously navigate in unison to reach their targets and conduct complex operations on-orbit. During this effort, Free Space will engage in a technical feasibility study to explore adaptations of the Guardian/Trellis flight software and communications methodologies that can be utilized for these operations in support of the USSF. As a result of the effort described herein, Free Space will identify an empowered system program office customer and an end user organization who will support Free Space’s proposed Phase II prototyping and R&D effort to adapt the Guardian Satellite and Free Space Trellis AI flight software to conduct autonomous navigation and swarming for USSF end use cases. |
| FA8649-23-P-1036 | Autonomous Hybrid Propulsion LTA Platform for Urban Air Mobility | $1,250,000 | GALAXY UNMANNED SYSTEMS LLC | SBIR | Phase II | AFX236-DPCSO1 | 08/29/2023 | 11/29/2024 | Department of Defense | Air Force | Galaxy Unmanned Systems LLC and our academic and industry partners (“Team Galaxy”) are proud to present our Lighter-Than-Air (LTA) Hybrid Electric Orb for Urban Air Mobility. Autonomous aerial mobility has huge potential while also arriving with a host of |
| W51701-23-C-0192 | Wide Bandgap Bi-Directional Converter | $1,699,953 | GALLEY POWER, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A214-030 | 08/02/2023 | 08/08/2025 | Department of Defense | Army | This Phase II project is to design, build and test a bi-directional converter (BDC) utilizing wide-bandgap devices. The proposed BDC will be capable of converting 15kW power continuously between 600Vdc and 28Vdc voltage buses and fit into a ARINC 600 6-MCU enclosure. Utilizing wide bandgap technology devices including SiC and GaN MOSFETs enable the BDC to operate in a 71 Celsius ambient environment. During Phase I period, Galley Power has built and tested proof-of-concept prototype for the proposed BDC and demonstrated its feasibilities with key functionalities meeting or exceeding the performance requirements. In Phase II period, a full-scale BDC will be designed and built based on the Phase I prototype. Lab tests will be conducted on the BDC to prove its functions. The BDC will be designed with appropriate electrical and mechanical interface for integration into a military ground vehicle system. |
| W912CG23C0024 | BARC: Binary Analysis and Recompilation for CHERI | $1,799,831 | GALOIS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF203-CSO1 | 07/31/2023 | 08/21/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The objective of this study will be to develop technologies for recompiling legacy binaries to the secure CHERI ISA in support of DoD modernization priorities. Doing this would enable upgrading DoD systems processors and software by ruling out several important categories of security vulnerability that are possible on legacy architectures. However, recompilation is inherently a very difficult task, because CHERI binaries require metadata called capabilities, which are checked at run-time and alter the assembly code as well as the data layout. Recompiling a legacy binary to CHERI means reconstructing the logic of the original binary and inferring the capabilities necessary to ensure it runs safely. The current state of technology is that binary recompilation to emerging platforms such as CHERI is impossible, even for the simplest binaries. The purpose of this study is to go from zero to one: that is, to establish that recompilation is possible, and to lay the groundwork for later studies that will show it can be done fully automatically at scale. We will do this leveraging technologies from binary lifting and recompilation, which exist in potential but have not been applied to the problem of recompiling to CHERI. |
| N6523623C8017 | CAMDEN Phase II | $1,799,896 | GALOIS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-30 | 06/29/2023 | 07/01/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The vision of the CAMDEN project has been to explore the use of mechanism design as a solution to effectively incentivize and accelerate collaboration in critical DoD domains. Our Phase II goal is to “make it real” by building one or more deployable mechanism design solutions, demonstrating in a very tangible way how mechanism design can benefit the DoD. In the 8-month Phase 1 effort, we aimed to provide clarity on the fundamental questions and issues involved in mechanism design, evidence of the feasibility of our approach, and a roadmap for further research leading to deployable API mechanisms for the DoD. We characterize a mechanism design solution as having three components: a domain and domain objective; an incentive structure to achieve that objective; and a platform for instantiating the incentive structure. The three components serve not only as a useful way to organize some of our key insights from Phase I of CAMDEN, but as the specification of research thrusts for Phase II, for example, applying behavioral economics, taking into account social norms, and applying temporal dynamics to incentive structures. An important design principle that comes from our Phase I research is that the specific details matter in mechanism design, and so solutions to these problems depend on getting the precise right fit between domain, incentive structure, and platform. Our work in Phase II is meant to demonstrate the plausibility of this claim by taking three specific DoD problem domains (information sharing, supply chain, DoD acquisition), and showing how to instantiate a solution with the appropriate incentive structure and platform. Our plan is to carry out multiple proof-of-concept instantiations that illuminate the value of each of the Phase I findings above, while demonstrating the potential for DoD deployment of these solutions. Our goal beyond Phase II is to demonstrate the feasibility of mechanism design solutions for applications at DoD-scale. So a key outcome of the CAMDEN project is ultimately a toolbox of mechanism design components, design patterns, and tools for implementing these patterns that can be widely applied across multiple DoD domains of interest. |
| W912CG23C0025 | QUantified Information flow for Intelligent Partitioning (QUIIP) | $1,799,828 | GALOIS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | A17-006 | 08/22/2023 | 03/23/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | Due to exponential growth in complexity, current hardware designs cannot be thoroughly tested, which leads to significant hardware vulnerabilities reaching the field. Recent innovations in Model-Based Engineering (MBE) provide information flow analysis results that can be used to drive design state space partitioning – separating the design into multiple, individually verifiable portions – based on existing mission requirements. Advances in formal methods and symbolic execution allow us to formally analyze the resulting partitions to guarantee that mission requirements, such as security classification boundaries, are satisfied. This partitioning will reduce the complexity of what must be formally analyzed, allowing the techniques to scale from small microcontrollers to complete System on Chips (SoCs) with multiple heterogeneous processor cores, accelerators, and uncore components. The techniques also include a new quantitative measure of the complexity of achieving the partitioning, providing developers with guidance on where the design can be optimized for performance while preserving security. In this Phase II project, we will show that our partitioning approach makes it possible to reduce the state-space explosion problem of mission-critical digital design verification. We will show that it is possible to partition key areas of microarchitecture designs based on application requirements captured in architecture-level models. To accomplish this, we will derive information flow constraints based on mission-system architectural models and supporting software implementations, drive these constraints into the hardware microarchitecture, and formally verify that those constraints are satisfied. We will demonstrate the feasibility of applying these mission-driven constraints to help scale verification techniques to multi-core systems with heterogeneous accelerators. The results will show that it is feasible to scale formal methods to hardware designs of 10M gates, which is a 50x improvement of the state of the art. |
| FA2384-23-C-0004 | Privacy Assured Linkage and Analytics over Datasets from Isolated Neighborhoods (PALADIN) | $1,249,778 | GALOIS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | AF222-D017 | 03/24/2023 | 06/25/2025 | Department of Defense | Air Force | The US Air Force has the need to predict proficiency, outcomes, and study potential optimizations of the impact of proposed training for USAF personnel, teams, and individual pilots. Such assessments rely on data provided by a variety of facilities and service branches, and at diverse classification and compliance levels. While techniques do exist for linking and aggregating data for analysis, current approaches either unnecessarily reveal sensitive data, or directly harm the utility of analyses creating additional uncertainty. For example, the current gold standard used by many federal agencies is data de-identification, which offers only limited privacy guarantees and has consistently failed to provide privacy protection when evaluated in the scientific literature. As another example, synthetic data approaches, which substitute representative but artificial data for sensitive data, require costly preparation: each data set owner must privately learn all necessary statistical relationships in the original data, and adequately replicate them in the synthetic data set. We propose as an alternative approach Privacy Assured Linkage and Analytics over Datasets from Isolated Neighborhoods (PALADIN). PALADIN cryptographically protects sensitive data while retaining its full utility and requires no de-identification or data synthesis. PALADIN will prototype, demonstrate, and evaluate a number of methods designed to securely access and analyze diverse training data across partitions, including capabilities to: 1) query, identify, navigate to, and link data across partitions using rich search semantics while preventing the exposure of data to unauthorized users; 2) characterize limitations or uncertainties which arise from limited access to only a given subset of partitions containing usable data; 3) recommend partition changes to minimize limitations and uncertainties, while maximizing utility when in limited partition access scenarios; and 4) provide a cryptographically mature basis for analytical methods involving Bayesian statistical methods in multi-party computation settings, providing privacy guarantees while maximizing the utility of analytics and proficiency prediction. |
| 140D0423C0063 | User-directed analysis and verification of modified binaries | $1,799,837 | GALOIS, INC. | STTR | Phase II | N152-120 | 08/11/2023 | 02/13/2025 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | In the Phase I and II efforts on Galois' Attack Sensitive Brittle Software (Brittle) SBIR project, we implemented Software Fault Enhancement (SFE), a binary modification technique for improving the robustness of existing binary code, without requiring access to source code or other documentation. This work is promising enough that the toolset is now being commercialized. On this sequential Phase II project, we will extend and integrate recent work on symbolic, concrete, and timed trace analysis to implement new means of providing assurance to the user that binary modifications made for SFE do not result in additional, unwanted changes in behavior. This specifically includes changes in timed behavior, important in the operation of embedded systems such as digital control systems. The results of this project will be useful for providing such assurance for a range of applications of localized binary modification. In addition to SFE, these include patching bugs or removing possible execution paths (e.g., removing application features), or instrumenting binaries to gather run-time information for further testing and analysis. In all of these cases, potential end-users need assurance that the modified binaries will behave as before, except in circumscribed ways related to the goal of the modification as above. |
| W31P4Q-23-C-0020 | Generating Requirements Evidence with Analysis and System-level Enforcement (GREASE) | $1,497,445 | GALOIS, INC. | SBIR | Phase II | HR001121S0007-08 | 03/30/2023 | 03/31/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency | The Generating Requirements Evidence with Analysis and System-level Enforcement (GREASE) project will develop a static binary verifier that generates evidence that COTS software components satisfy their requirements. The GREASE tool will accelerate both (1) the safe and high-assurance integration of COTS components into systems, and (2) the generation of assurance cases for the certification of systems that incorporate COTS components. By analyzing binaries, the verifier will be able to build assurance cases even when manufacturers are unwilling or unable to provide source code. The GREASE tool will statically verify that COTS software binaries satisfy their requirements by lifting them into an intermediate representation suitable for analysis, converting requirements into static assertions, and verifying that the assertions hold on all program executions through under-constrained symbolic execution. This approach provides a strong combination of scalability, precision, and explainability. Requirements will be described in a constrained natural language, making GREASE suitable for use by auditors without a reverse engineering background. The project will optionally explore applications of human-in-the-loop testing, where the GREASE tool will generate augmented binaries to (1) build assurance in cases where static verification is not possible, and (2) augment the static verification with additional information to improve its results. |
| HT9425-23-C-0071 | GW-TT2, a New Drug Product for Tinnitus. | $1,299,999 | [ GATEWAY BIOTECHNOLOGY, INC.] | SBIR | Phase II | PA 19-272 | 09/18/2023 | 01/17/2026 | Department of Defense | Defense Health Program | Every soldier, Marine, airman, and sailor will be exposed to hazardous noise at some point in his or her career. One major consequence of noise exposure is tinnitus. Tinnitus can impede communication, reduce environmental and social awareness, and degrade combat performance and mission effectiveness. Tinnitus can also harm a service member’s quality of life and future employability with severe forms of the disease resulting in depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Despite extensive studies, no drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the amelioration of tinnitus. Exact pathological mechanisms for noise-induced tinnitus are unknown. The current view is that tinnitus can be induced by neural hyperactivity in the central auditory nervous system after peripheral deafferentation associated with acoustic trauma. This abnormal electrical activity may be the direct result of an increase in calcium channel activity. Recent data from our SBIR direct Phase II grant (R44DC018759) showed that L-type, but not T-type calcium channel blockers are effective in the treatment of tinnitus after acoustic trauma. One such blocker of L-type calcium channels is nimodipine (NMDP), an FDA-approved drug with an extensive record of safety and pharmacokinetic data. In the U.S., an NMDP oral formulation is used to reduce ischemic deficits after subarachnoid hemorrhage, and in Europe, an intravenous formulation is approved for the same indication to increase its delivery to the brain. Using an established animal model for tinnitus induced by noise exposure, we developed a new nasal formulation for NMDP (GW-TT2) to reduce its systemic side effects, increase its brain delivery, and improve patients’ experience with the use of this drug. Our hypothesis is that NMDP, when delivered nasally, can be a safe and effective therapy for noise-induced tinnitus. Most importantly, we have recently received positive FDA comments for our Type B Pre-Investigational New Drug (IND) application, which provided a detailed map for our next steps in developing GW-TT2 including guidance on the Chemistry, Manufacturing and Controls (CMC) for the final drug product. Here the objective is to manufacture GW-TT2 for clinical phase I/Ib trials. By working closely with our contract research organizations (CROs), we will: (1) test the feasibility and procedures to make GW-TT2 using non-cGMP (current good manufacturing practices) standards; (2) use the product for toxicity testing on animals; and finally, (3) make cGMP-grade GW-TT2 drug for stability testing and clinical studies. These studies will result in a final drug product suitable for GMP Tox studies and Phase I/Ib clinical studies. If successful, these studies will enable us to open an IND and initiate clinical trials with the goal of providing the first-ever FDA approved drug for tinnitus and address an urgent unmet need for military personnel with tinnitus. |
| N68335-23-C-0356 | Decentralized Adaptive Cognitive TTP Synthesis (DACTS) | $139,952 | GBL SYSTEMS CORPORATION | SBIR | Phase I | N231-067 | 07/17/2023 | 01/16/2024 | Department of Defense | Navy | GBL Systems proposes the Decentralized Adaptive Cognitive Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) Synthesis (DACTS) project to synthesize machine-actionable TTPs utilizing supervised/unsupervised AI/ML methods. DACTS provides decision logic for self-coordinating tactical systems including low-SWaP platforms in operationally-relevant environments (e.g., A2/AD). DACTS will update a threat model in real time utilizing unsupervised ML methods which are utilized to synthesize/update TTPs to counter projected threat behavior. AI/ML methodology will provide appropriate computation speed for real-time reactions and projected task timelines. This allows heterogeneous EW platforms (including manned and unmanned systems) to develop real-time many-versus-many task plans that adapt to adversary warfighting systems (e.g., Integrated Air Defense Systems). The heterogeneous platforms in this use case will have varied ES and EA capabilities and coordinate with peers in a decentralized manner to de-conflict tasking and support dependent EW activities. Phase I will identify key requirements and AI/ML algorithms (including new research on unsupervised, supervised, and reinforcement learning) as well as refine a system architecture, and a Phase I Option will prototype advanced system components for use in the classified Phase II development process. To achieve success and reduce development risk, GBL will leverage experience and flight-tested technology from prior SBIR efforts and Independent Research and Development. |