NASA SBIR 2004 Solicitation

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
PRAGMASOFT, INC.
130 Elsmere Ave.
Delmar, NY 12054-4310
(518)439-8815

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
J. Scott Merritt
sbir@pragmasoft.com
130 Elsmere Ave.
Delmar, NY 12054-4310
(518)439-8815

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal responds to the urgent need for improved pilot interfaces in the modern aircraft cockpit. Recent advances in aircraft equipment bring tremendous resources within the reach of the today's pilot. Unfortunately, these advancements are often accompanied by increases in system complexity and pilot workload. In many cases, the detailed interaction required by modern avionics significantly interferes with the pilot's need to scan instrument gauges, maintain visual separation from other aircraft, and attend to other critical tasks.

To address these concerns, PragmaSoft's proposal combines innovations in robust speech recognition and interface design with powerful application language constraints to deliver highly effective voice interface solutions. Development efforts are carefully target at high workload pilot tasks to ensure substantial benefits and commercial acceptance. Initial product sales are leveraged to collect an extensive corpus of actual (in-flight) speech and operational data for subsequent research and development.

PragmaSoft believes that the lengthy and focused attention required to operate some aircraft devices presents an unacceptable safety risk to flight operations. The proposed innovations deliver effective and commercially attractive voice interface solutions that allow pilots to interact with their cockpit environment in a safer and more efficient manner.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Under subtopic A1.01, NASA requests "innovative technologies to improve airspace safety with a crew-centered focus ... [and] high potential for emerging as marketable products". PragmaSoft's proposal directly addresses this need by delivering advanced speech recognition technology that is commercially attractive to a wide spectrum of aircraft operators, and yields immediate benefits in safety and efficiency.

NASA's Small Aircraft Transportation System (SATS) program includes a mandate to demonstrate improvements in the ability of single pilots to function competently in complex airspace. This proposal provides an exceptional opportunity for NASA to demonstrate additional capability in support of these objectives.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed innovations deliver commercially attractive, speaker-independent, voice interface products that significantly enhance the safety and efficiency of advanced flight operations. Initial products are carefully targeted to specific applications to ensure substantial benefits and commercial acceptance. Non-certified versions of the product are configured for convenient use in a wide variety of aircraft, while certified versions are provided for permanent installation. The persuasive cost/benefit profile of these products ensures that a wide spectrum of aircraft owners and operators will finally enjoy the benefits of advanced speech recognition technology.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
PHYSICAL OPTICS CORPORATION
20600 Gramercy Place, Building 100
Torrance, CA 90501-1821
(310)320-3088

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Ranjit Pradhan
sutama@poc.com
20600 Gramercy Place, Building 100
Torrance, CA 90501-1821
(310)320-3088

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
To improve aviation safety, NASA requires crew-centric technologies that ensure appropriate situational awareness through improved information presentation. Presenting information by 3D display can significantly facilitate human perception and counteract biases and error-tendencies, leading to improved aviation safety. To address this NASA need, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new 3D COckpit Display (3D-COD) system for aircraft flight decks, based on fast scanning liquid crystal (LC) optics, to create a compact multiuser, multiperspective 3D display system that has no moving parts and requires no 3D glasses. This interactive system brings automultiscopic viewing to pilots and crew members on the flight deck, with a greater than 60 degree FOV, 2048x2048 resolution, 60 Hz flicker-free full-color, high-brightness, and crosstalk-free operation, introducing 3D display technology to the cockpit. The use of LC technology well developed for flat-panel LC displays, reduces cost and makes the system commercially attractive. In Phase I POC will develop a scaled-down version of the fast-scanning LC optics display system and demonstrate its 3D operation on a laboratory 3D testbed system. This testbed will be upgraded to a fully packaged optimized prototype in Phase II.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed 3D-COD display system will be used not only in the cockpit, but also for air traffic control, training, and multicraft airspace image displays, engineering design, training and simulation, and scientific visualization and analysis.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The 3D-COD technology has huge commercial potential. It will find applications in the engineering development and entertainment industries, particularly in theme parks, museums, and educational institutions. This technology can also address the multibillion dollar video game industry.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Metron Aviation, Inc.
131 Elden Street, Suite 200
Herndon, VA 20170-4758
(703)456-0123

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Terry Thompson
thompson@metronaviation.com
131 Elden Street, Suite 200
Herndon, VA 20170-4758
(703)456-0123

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Command and Control (C2) activities abound in the NAS, and significantly influence daily operations and overall NAS efficiency. Since C2 effects are so prominent, development of new operational concepts, and evaluation of proposed changes, requires simulation and modeling capabilities that include C2 effects. Metron Aviation leverages its extensive knowledge of the Command and Control (C2) functions of the National Airspace System (NAS) to develop models that enable realistic NAS simulations. The key innovations of this effort are 1) the implementation of models for NAS ATM C2 processes, and 2) the integration of these models with the NASA Langley Systems Analysis Branch's (SAB) Simulation Environment. The development leverages the following key capabilities: Metron Aviation's extensive experience supporting NAS C2 activities, and Langley's infrastructure for conducting NAS-wide simulations of air traffic. By developing this interaction we enable a system that allows researchers and analysts to evaluate current NAS operations and to investigate future technologies and concepts of operations. These users exploit the system's capabilities to observe NAS behavior and compare the benefits and impacts of operational concepts prior to pursuing implementation in the operational system.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Understanding of the system-wide impacts of NAS Command and Control is lacking in both operational practice and current research. This understanding is crucial for the evaluation of current/proposed future operations. Currently, NASA programs such as the Virtual Airspace Modeling and Simulation (VAMS) and the All-weather Capacity Enhancement NRA are developing system concepts to meet increasing air-traffic demand, reduce delays and improve safety/security. While evidence suggests that these techniques may provide significant benefit, NASA must accurately assess tradeoffs between such benefits and costs of implementation. Realistic NAS-wide simulations, including C2, are required to assess such operational concepts and technologies.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Estimates of ATM costs due to delays range from hundreds of millions of dollars to billions of dollars per year. Several research activities are being pursued to develop new concepts and technologies in an effort to meet the increasing demands. Many of these developments promise to be costly and laborious to implement, and the difficulty of adequately assessing the anticipated impacts creates significant risk operators and users of the NAS. Development of simulation capabilities and benefit assessment methods that include the effects of C2, creates significant commercial demand for accurate and robust C2 modeling capabilities.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
AEROTECH RESEARCH
11836 Fishing Point Drive, Suite 200
Newport News, VA 23606-4507
(757)723-1300

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Paul A Robinson
paulrobinson@atr-usa.com
11836 Fishing Point Drive, Suite 200
Newport News, VA 23606-4507
(757)723-1300

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Aircraft encounters with turbulence are the leading cause of injuries in the airline industry and result in significant human, operational, and maintenance costs to the airline community each year. A large contributor to the above injuries and costs is that flight crews do not have sufficient situational awareness of the location and severity of potential turbulence hazards to their aircraft. AeroTech will improve pilots' situational awareness of turbulence hazards by developing an integrated, graphical cockpit display of turbulence hazard information scaled to their specific aircraft. This display will negate the need for inference that is required to interpret current turbulence information. With better knowledge of turbulence hazards' severity and location, pilots will be able to avoid turbulence encounters or prepare for them by having all occupants seated with seatbelts on, thereby avoiding injuries. Phase I work will develop, based on pilot input, a concept of operations and a requirements document for this display, evaluate several potential turbulence hazard information sources, and define requirements for simulations to be carried out in Phase II. By the end of Phase II an intuitive and meaningful cockpit, turbulence hazard display will be developed and tested using simulations and operational flight evaluations.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
When the goals of the proposed R/R&D are met, this cockpit display and underlying system will directly contribute to the stated national goal of NASA's Aviation Safety Program (AvSP) of a 50% reduction in aviation accidents by 2007. This work will be completely aligned with other Turbulence Prediction and Warning System (TPAWS) efforts, as well as other efforts in the Weather Accident Prevention (WxAP) element.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
When the goals of the proposed R/R&D are met, this cockpit display system will provide pilots with improved turbulence hazard information allowing them to operate more efficiently and safely. Significant reductions in fuel waste and costs associated with injuries due to turbulence are expected to be major commercial drivers for this system. The market for this display is all Part 121 carriers (both domestic and international). Delta Air Lines is currently operationally evaluating several of the technologies whose outputs will be integrated into the proposed display and has also agreed to support the efforts of this proposal.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Cox and Company Inc.
200 Varick Street
New York, NY 10014-4875
(212)366-0200

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Kamel Al-Khalil
alkhalil@coxandco.com
200 Varick Street
New York, NY 10014-4875
(212)366-0200

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal presents a dual approach to the development and certification of an alternative system for ice protection of turbine engine inlets. It combines a new generation low power ice protection system with a novel path to certification that is based upon requirements that turbine engines be capable of operation in a hail environment. Eliminated are requirements for high voltages and currents characteristic of all previous impulsive or expulsive deicing systems. It is postulated that if the engine can operate safely in the hail environment as defined by the FARs, then it can be expected to operate safely and economically in the presence of particles shed by the deicer which are demonstrably smaller and less hazardous than hail. Such a system presents a viable alternative to the use of hot air ice protection systems.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The system proposed is a viable alternative to bleed air ice protection for engine inlets. NASA has a national objective an overall improvement in the safety of aircraft operation. Protection of aircraft from exposure to icing environment is included in that charter. One of the most important trades involved in the development of icing conditions is between energy and icing performance. This trade has been shown that it can be addressed by the use of low power ice protection systems on lifting surfaces. It remains to apply these principles to engine inlets. This is the commercial promise of this system.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The system proposed is a viable alternative to bleed air ice protection for engine inlets. It should find wide application on turbine powered aircraft that are designed to achieve even greater efficiency of operation through the use of exclusively electrically powered systems, including ice protection. This "all electric airplane" concept has been under consideration for many years by NASA and other industry organizations. Indications gained from public disclosures by companies, especially Boeing, of the elimination of bleed air as a means of ice protection are firm indications of the intent to develop new technologies in support of more efficient aircraft.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Radiometrics Corp
2840 Wilderness Place, Unit G
Boulder, CO 80301-5414
(303)449-9192

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Fredrick Solheim
solheim@radiometrics.com
2840 Wilderness Place, Unit G
Boulder, CO 80301-5414
(303)449-9192

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Aircraft icing continues to be one of the major safety and operational concerns of the FAA, elements of the military, and the foreign military and civilian counterparts. Attempts to develop methods to directly detect aircraft icing meteorological conditions have met with mixed success. Combining microwave radiometers with radars has shown great promise, but deficiencies of the radiometers have limited their value. In this proposed effort we will develop a fast sampling multifrequency profiling and dual polarization narrow beam radiometer system to overcome these deficiencies. In this proposed radiometer system, all beams are collinear and match the antenna gain pattern of weather research radars. The radiometer will have the capability of profiling (ranging) water vapor along the beam as well as discriminate ice and water phase hydrometeors. We will also develop a fast beam steering system to operate in concert with the radar. Phase II will produce a turnkey radiometric system, ready to deploy.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA Glenn is actively researching methods of detecting aircraft icing conditions, and has performed and participated in a number of aircraft icing studies with their Twin Otter, radiometers, radar, and other sensing systems. The technology proposed herein greatly enhances the value of the important radiometric observations by enabling measurements that match the research radars at a number of radiometric frequencies.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The radiometric system developed herein, as well as being a valuable research tool, is to be operated with NEXRAD and Terminal Doppler Weather Radars (TDWRs) to detect and quantify cloud liquid water and ice in single- and mixed-phase conditions. In addition to detecting aircraft icing conditions, this quantification will enhance weather nowcasting and predictive capabilities.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Intelligent Automation, Inc.
15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20855-2785
(301)294-5200

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
George Zhao
xzhao@i-a-i.com
15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20855-2785
(301)294-5232

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Corrosion and fatigue induced metal-loss and cracks are common problems for missiles and aircraft structures. A wide range of field conditions such as humidity, temperature, stress, cathode potential, and coating conditions, etc. all contributes to the electrochemical reaction between the incipient corrosive agent molecule and the structural metal matrix. The weakened inter-atomic force leads to the material loss, pits or crack growth and eventually structural failure.

We propose a new approach to detect and characterize the corrosion and cracks in missile and aircraft structures. The technique consists of very small, low cost guided wave leave-in-place health monitoring sensors known as piezo-disks, innovative Correlation Analysis Technique (CAT) for fast defect sizing and localization, and a miniaturized local computing device with data acquisition and processing capabilities and wireless module for remote monitoring. It is envisioned the total cost of this system will be less than $1500.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The ability to detect and characterize the corrosion and crack in an early and accurate manner is critical for reducing cost and improving safety for many NASA systems such as propulsion system, aircraft frames and wings, etc. At the end of Phase 2, we will have a small, light weight, low cost, low power consumption and robust system with both hardware and software for defect detection and localization.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
In-situ health monitoring and fault diagnosis is equally important for many military and commercial systems such as aircraft, automobiles, trains, home appliances, nuclear reactors, etc. The system can either perform continuous monitoring for the critical high strength components or switch on-off when needed. We expect the market for this system to be at least 10 million dollars.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Metron Aviation, Inc.
131 Elden Street, Suite 200
Herndon, VA 20170-4758
(703)456-0123

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Jimmy Krozel
krozel@metronaviation.com
131 Elden Street, Suite 200
Herndon, VA 20170-4783
(703)456-0123

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Automatic Dependent Surveillance ? Broadcast (ADS-B) is an emerging Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS) technology that will vastly expand the state of the art in CNS in the National Airspace System (NAS). However, ADS-B is not currently secure and foolproof, and is currently vulnerable to abnormalities and deliberate contamination (spoofing). To address these problems, Metron Aviation, Inc. designs and develops an innovative software system that Verifies and Validates (V&V) the integrity of an ADS-B signal in real-time, independent of a secondary truth source of surveillance data. The system uses a suite of Kalman filters for short time horizon trajectory predictions, bearing signal tracking, a novel intent inference algorithm for reasoning about ADS-B intent data, and confidence assessment measures. The proposed technology addresses NASA's quest for technologies to harden aircraft CNS systems against abnormality and deliberate attack.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This ADS-B Verification and Validation system provides NASA Glenn's ACAST (Advanced CNS Architectures and System Technologies) with a technology that enables increases in capacity, efficiency, mobility and flexibility for users of the National Airspace System.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This ADS-B Verification and Validation system has potential to be included inside ADS-B equipment being sold by many vendors in the US and Europe, and is applicable to multiple data link technologies (Mode S 1090 MHz, VDL Mode 4, or Universal Access Transceiver (UAT)) used in remote regions like Alaska and Gulf of Mexico.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
BARRON ASSOCIATES, INC.
1410 Sachem Place, Suite 202
Charlottesville, VA 22901-2496
(434)973-1215

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Alec J.D. Bateman
bateman@barron-associates.com
1410 Sachem Place, Suite 202
Charlottesville, VA 22901-2496
(434)973-1215

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
As the complexity of flight controllers grows so does the cost associated with verification and validation (V&V). Current-generation controllers are reaching a level of complexity that pushes the envelopes of existing V&V approaches, and without improved approaches there is little hope for affordable V&V of next-generation intelligent systems. Unfortunately, controller complexity and controller validation are required to ensure the safety of next-generation systems. Barron Associates proposes an aggressive plan of research to develop monitoring algorithms that estimate, in real time, safety margins of complex systems based on observed differences between the model used for controller development and actual flight data. The Phase I and Phase II research will focus on the flight test environment where these algorithms would allow the flight test engineer to monitor and revise the test plan in real time - skipping ahead in the buildup when safety is assured and avoiding test points where safety is questionable. The tool would also recommend test points that could help refine safety margin estimates for as yet unexecuted maneuvers. The result will be reduced flight test costs and improved safety. Phase I will develop a prototype approach and Phase II would implement the approach in a software tool.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The immediate NASA application is the Airborne Subscale Transport Aircraft Research (AirSTAR) test-bed at LaRC. This aircraft will provide an experimental flight test capability for Aviation Safety and Security Program (AvSSP) Single Aircraft Accident Prevention (SAAP) research pertaining to advanced control technology for failure accommodation and control under upset conditions. The SAAP algorithms are novel and complex, and many AirSTAR flight tests will be conducted at the edges of the flight envelope. The proposed research will be designed to address this need by providing real time monitoring and assurance, thereby improving the safety and reducing flight-test costs.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Non-NASA commercial applications fall under two categories: (1) other real-time testing of safety-critical systems, and (2) real-time monitoring of operational systems. Barron Associates is currently working with all three major airframers (Lockheed, Northrop, and Boeing) as well as the Navy and Air Force flight test centers to develop modeling, control, and advanced validation and verification (V&V) technologies for safety-critical systems. The tool developed in this SBIR address a unique need not being addressed by other current research, and will complement the tools already being developed by Barron Associates, Inc.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mosaic ATM, Inc.
1190 Hawling Pl
Leesburg, VA 20175-5084
(703)737-7637

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Chris Brinton
brinton@mosaicatm.com
1190 Hawling Pl
Leesburg, VA 20175-5084
(703)737-7637

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The aviation system of the United States of America is one of our national treasures. Very few elements of our culture capture the America spirit like aviation. Air transportation plays an absolutely vital role in our economy, and is also a core part of our high standard of living. But this importance of aviation in our society also makes aviation a highly desirable target for terrorists. Secretary of State Colin Powell has said that "no threat is more serious to aviation" than man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS). Although on-board defenses against MANPADS are being developed for commercial aircraft, these systems will not be deployed for many years and will be very expensive. The innovation proposed herein provides an information and decision support system to enhance security monitoring and patrolling around the perimeter of airports ? where the threat of MANPADS attacks is at its highest. This effort will merge the use of advanced airport surface surveillance data with decision support algorithms and security threat and vulnerability assessment methodologies to identify and alert security personnel regarding the airport perimeter areas of highest vulnerability and greatest access to targets of opportunity for MANPADS attacks or other terrorist activities.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The MANPADS threat against commercial aviation is real and must be addressed as soon as possible. A significant need exists for the Airport Perimeter Security Advisor (APSA) technology that will be developed through the conduct of this SBIR to complement airborne solutions. The APSA tool may be of interest to DHS, TSA, FAA, and airport authorities, in addition to local law enforcement responsible for patrolling the area around airports. This effort represents an excellent opportunity for NASA to leverage the already successful SMS program to provide additional benefits to the NAS through airport security improvements.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Commercial spin-offs of the APSA tool would focus on airport surface information display and management. Most airlines do not have sufficient information regarding the location of their aircraft and other assets on the airport surface. A commercial version of the APSA airport surface and terminal area map with dynamic flight information could be of significant commercial interest to the air carriers. Mosaic ATM is well positioned to obtain commercial funding from airlines to develop decision support tools to optimize the air carrier operation. Note that many air carriers already use SMS as an integral part of their daily operation.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Nokomis, Inc
6510 Brownsville Rd
Pittsburgh, PA 15236-3533
(412)650-6236

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Walter J. Keller
wkeller@nokomisinc.com
6510 Brownsville Rd
Pittsburgh, PA 15236-3533
(412)650-6236

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The technology required to deploy Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) for use against hardened military targets may be constrained to just a few nations, but for soft targets like commercial aircraft and Air Transportation System (ATS) assets options are plenty for terrorists, organized crime or rogue states hoping to inflict harm. These devices are readily configured for covert operations favored by such groups. This work will identify, quantify and provide guidance to intercept RF, EMP and HPM weapons terrorists might deploy against the ATS. Designs within this group will be categorized by type of design, quantitatively analyzed to determine threat parameters and broken down into components that can be screened by ATS personnel. The end product of this work will directly improve the safety and security of the ATS.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The NASA Strategic Plan includes requirements to enable a more secure air transportation system through development of high-payoff technologies. The goal of this work is to directly deter potential terrorist attacks and contribute to improving the security of commercial aircraft and the ATS.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Commercial applications related to accurate prediction of electromagnetic threats are vast. Virtually, every government agency from federal to local authorities have the need to understand the threat posed by EMP and HPM weapons. Sooner or later terrorists, organized crime, or a foreign state will utilize an EMP or HPM weapon against an American target that will create fear in the commercial marketplace. There are very few corporations that have protected their computer assets to these threats. What CEO wants to find that 500 computers and his company's entire network would be destroyed by an electromagnetic attack?

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
FETCH TECHNOLOGIES
2041 Rosecrans, Suite 245
El Segundo, CA 90245-4789
(310)414-9849

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Steven Minton
Minton@Fetch.com
2041 Rosecrans, Suite 245
El Segundo, CA 90245-4789
(310)414-9849

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
We propose to improve the effectiveness of air cargo prescreening by
enabling background knowledge about companies and products to be used
for threat assessment. The Transportation Security Administration's
(TSA) current approach for pre-screening air cargo shipments is based
primarily on the Known Shipper Program, which has several
shortcomings. By combining sophisticated data extraction and
integration technology with state-of-the-art data mining capabilities,
threat assessment rules can be developed to help identify high-risk
cargo. However, threat assessment relies on having data about the
entities being assessed. In this project, we propose to develop novel
data aggregation methods to automatically gather information about
companies and products from corporate web sites, business directories,
and other internet sources. We can then augment primary data sources
(cargo manifest, database of past cargo shipments, package
characteristics such as weight and volume) with additional background
data (shipper and receiver information, shippable goods information)
to perform threat assessment, and thereby route high-risk cargo for
additional inspection. The use of this background data has great
potential to significantly improve the ability of the TSA to detect
vulnerabilities that may arise in the shipment of air cargo to, from,
and within the United States.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The potential NASA Commercial Application that will be enabled by this technology is the development of an air cargo pre-screening application. The technology produced in this proposal allows for the creation of a massive database of corporate and product information. This data, in conjunction with historical data on cargo manifests, provides a very rich dataset for data mining purposes. A threat assessment application that uses this dataset, in conjunction with the results of the data mining, will be a highly effective tool for pre-screening air cargo shipments.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The technology developed under this proposal has clear commercial value. We have existing customers using our web aggregation technology for market intelligence and competitive intelligence applications. Many of these customers have explicitly expressed their interest in unsupervised, site-independent approaches for collecting product data and corporate data via the web. In addition the technology is of direct importance to companies such as Dun & Bradstreet that currently aggregate corporate data using time-consuming, manual methods.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Intelligent Automation, Inc.
15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20855-2785
(301)294-5200

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Xiaodong Zhang
xzhang@i-a-i.com
15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20855-2785
(301)294-5269

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal presents a novel intelligent hierarchical approach to detection, isolation, and accommodation of primary aerodynamic actuator failures. The proposed architecture has three main components. First, a nonlinear fault diagnosis scheme is used to detect any fault occurrence and to determine the particular fault type. The proposed method can directly deal with nonlinear systems and nonlinear faults, unstructured modeling uncertainty, and new and unanticipated faults. Second, a controller module consists of a primary nominal controller and a secondary adaptive fault tolerant controller. While the nominal controller can be any existing conventional flight control system, the secondary neural network (NN) based adaptive controller is designed to accommodate primary control surface failures by utilizing control redundancy. A pseudo-control hedging method is used to prevent the NN from adapting to various actuation anomalies. Third, a reconfiguration supervisor makes decision regarding controller reconfiguration and control reallocation by using on-line diagnostic information. The proposed architecture is attractive in particular as a retrofit to previously certified flight control systems for improved flight safety. Our primary Phase 1 research objective is feasibility demonstration through extensive simulation studies. In Phase 2, we will refine the algorithms and develop the real-time control software.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
There are many potential NASA applications for this innovation, for instance, Integrated Vehicle Health Management systems, health monitoring of spacecraft, reusable launch vehicles, propulsion control systems, etc. Other potential applications include NASA systems such as valves, pumps, motors, Main Propulsion System, Thermal Control System, etc. The size of this market is not small and hard to estimate.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed approach can be used for applications such as military and commercial aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ships, submarines, motors, robots, and nuclear reactors, etc. The proposed fault diagnostics system can be extended to many other applications, such as pumps, gearboxes, motors, engines, etc. The Future Combat System (FCS) program and Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) program are also in significant need of diagnostics and fault-tolerant control technology.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
SenAnTech, Inc.
5444 Silver Creek
Columbus, OH 43228-9062
(614)571-2117

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Seung-Keon Kwak
senantech@yahoo.com
5444 Silver Creek
Columbus, OH 43228-9062
(614)571-2117

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
In this SBIR project, a reliable self-repairing Flight Control System (FCS) will be developed. To achieve this goal, an artificial Neural Network based Sensor Validity Monitoring, Verification and Accommodation (SVMVA) scheme will be developed. Initially, the Extended Back Propagation Algorithm (EBPA) or Learning Vector Quantization (LVQ) will be evaluated and employed as the on-line real time learning, monitoring and estimating tools. For a feasibility study, sample flight vehicle dynamics will be assessed. Then, an optimal on-line estimator for the flight dynamics will be shown by applying our unique input vector discrimination procedure and network optimization technique. In Phase I, an in-house numerical simulation tool for SVMVA will be developed to demonstrate the feasibility of our approach. As a result, it is expected that the new self-repairing Flight Control System based on SVMVA scheme will meet or exceed the NASA's requirement for their new flight vehicles. The most significant advantage of the new self-repairing Flight Control System is that the system is able to mask failed physical sensors by providing flight-worthy flight dynamics information to most FCS of flight vehicles without needing redundant sensors or excessive power, weight and space.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The SVMVA product will be very attractive to NASA's space exploration missions. By providing reliable backup information of space vehicle dynamics without additional physically redundant sensors in case of failure of the primary or secondary sensor systems, it will considerably reduce the weight, space, and power requirement of vehicles and reduce the vulnerability of vehicle operations.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The new reconfigurable flight control system based on Sensor Validity Monitoring, Verification and Identification (SVMVA) scheme has great potential for both commercial and military markets. The applications of the proposed technology and related products are not only limited in the aerospace industries but also extended to various military and civil fault detection and health monitoring markets. Aircraft engine industry is also potential markets. Real-time health monitoring of expensive and mission critical rotating component can save money and life. Consequently, its application includes virtually anything that requires detection of sensor and actuator conditions in broadband frequencies.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Brilliant Technology Inc
1500 Woodward Court
Brentwood, TN 37027-8641
(615)300-8481

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Kevin Tseng
KevinTseng@yahoo.com
1500 Woodward Court
Brentwood, TN 37027-8641
(615)300-8481

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposed project will attempt to develop a data analysis system for structural health monitoring on space structures. The data analysis software will be a key component in space vehicle health management system and can be used to in vehicle life prediction. The sensor data analysis algorithm is aimed at providing a modeling and simulation tool for data collected from a network of distributed sensors. The sensor network can be implemented via the state-of-the-art technology of distributed wireless dust network. A novel algorithm combining measurement data from the sensors and the analytical model based on the concept of finite element analysis is proposed and the feasibility of the algorithm to detect structural damage will be tested in this project. The project will focus on the impedance-based nondestructive damage evaluation technique. However, the algorithm can be extended to handle other types of sensor data such as acceleration and temperature. The data analysis system can monitor the performance of defective structural component in a space vehicle and issue proper warning for maintenance and repair. If the concept is tested successful, the algorithm can be further developed into a commercial software to be used for the structural integrity monitoring of many engineering applications.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed system can be used to monitor the integrity of a wide range of space structures. This system can be used to monitor the performance of metallic and non-metallic structural components and the space structural system. The structural health monitoring system will be a key component in space vehicle health management system and the data collected can be used to predict the remaining service life of the space structures. The system will be a valuable technology for the safety of future space exploration including manned and unmanned missions to the Moon, the Mars, and other long-rang space missions.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Since the proposed data analysis system is non-parametric meaning that the technology is not dependent on the geometry and material properties of the structures being monitored, the system can be used to monitor the structural integrity of one structural component, a sub-structural system, and the entire structural system. This technology can be applied to a very wide range of engineering applications. Examples of potential applications include automobiles, nuclear power-plant structures, and civil infrastructures such as the pipeline systems, bridges, and high-rise buildings. The system can be integrated into the vehicle health management system and life prediction system.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Kestrel Technology LLC
3260 Hillview Ave.
Palo Alto, CA 94304-1201
(650)320-8888

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Allen Goldberg
goldberg@email.arc.nasa.gov
NASA Ames Research Ctr, M/S 269/2
Moffett Field, CA 94035-1000
(650)604-4585

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Increasingly, critical flight functionality is implemented in software, but traditional (integrated) vehicle health management (IVHM) has primarily addressed hardware faults. All fielded software has residual errors, and the marginal costs to remove errors grow as the target residual error rate decreases. Our innovation is the development of tools, architectural concepts and software development methodologies to extend IVHM systems to detect, isolate and recover from software errors, as a cost effective way to increase the reliability and robustness of flight software. Software fault detection, isolation and recovery (SFDIR) fixes or contains the impact of faults and reduces the possibility of catastrophic loss. Each phase ? detection, isolation, and recovery ? raises new research challenges. This work addresses automated diagnostics of mission-critical avionics and middleware or software toolkits to lower the cost of developing online health monitoring applications. Our technical objectives are to detect, by code instrumentation, when the software state violates explicated safety constraints; using model-based reasoning and program analysis techniques, to trace from symptom to error source; and to recover from errors in a safe way preserving or replacing as much functionality as possible, and in all cases "to do no harm". This technology may also be applied to monitor potential security threats.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The potential applications of our innovation are generally to any system which requires high levels of safety and robustness. However, our work will focus on flight software for both aviation and space applications, including UAVs, military flight systems, and Exploration missions. Autonomy software in particular can benefit from this approach

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
A natural follow-on to a successful Phase II effort would be a partnership with an organization developing flight software and to apply the technology to new flight software development.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
MetroLaser, Inc.
2572 White Road
Irvine, CA 92614-6236
(949)553-0688

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Thomas P. Jenkins
tjenkins@metrolaserinc.com
2572 White Road
Irvine, CA 92614-6236
(949)553-0688

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
We propose to develop a versatile and affordable system to measure the average diameter of primary soot particles along with their mass concentration in aircraft engine exhausts. This work will expand upon our recent experience applying laser-induced incandescence (LII) to obtain the first successful quantitative measurements of spatially and temporally resolved, non-intrusive soot particle mass concentration in an aircraft engine test. The proposed system will take advantage of recent research suggesting that particle size can be obtained from the LII decay rate. Advances in laser and photodiode technology should enable compact, inexpensive components to be used. A simple calibration procedure will help minimize the requirements for operator expertise and training. Advanced, experimentally validated algorithms will be used to compute soot particle size and mass, with the results displayed in real time during an engine test. The tasks described in this proposal are essential steps leading to a versatile LII system that can be routinely applied to engine testing programs, and subsequently commercialized. Our goal is to develop an LII system suitable for widespread use; therefore, it will be portable, inexpensive, and easy to operate. The proposed Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of this system.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
A successful LII particle sizing and mass instrument could be used by NASA to quantify and classify particulate emissions by size from aircraft engines. Data obtained with the instrument could be used in conjunction with climate models in studies to predict the impact of aircraft-generated aerosols, thus helping to establish goals for aircraft particulate emissions. The LII instrument will complement existing aerosol mass spectrometers by providing in situ measurements of overall particulate mass; whereas the existing extractive sampling techniques contain an inherent uncertainty in the total mass due to loss in the sampling lines.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed technique will find commercial application in a variety of industries needing to comply with particle pollution standards. Examples include automobile, truck, diesel generators, marine and gas turbine industries. This market will eventually expand to include commercial airlines and automobile test stations.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Optimal Synthesis Inc.
868 San Antonio Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303-4622
(650)213-8585

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Padmanabhan K. Menon
menon@optisyn.com
868 San Antonio Road
Palo Alto, CA 94303-4622
(650)213-8585

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Traditional design methods for aircraft turbine engine control systems have relied on the use of linearized models and linear control theory. While these controllers can provide satisfactory performance, they do not exploit all the available knowledge about the nonlinear engine dynamics. Recent advances in computer-aided nonlinear control system design technology have made it feasible to design control systems using a detailed model of the engine. These nonlinear engine control systems have the potential to deliver a more precise control of the engine dynamics while satisfying multiple operational requirements.
Using a NASA-supplied engine model, Phase I research will develop a nonlinear engine control system that can deliver uniform performance over the entire operating region. Operation at multiple operating points and transitions between them will be demonstrated during the Phase I research.
Phase II work will develop a rapid-prototyping design environment for nonlinear engine control systems and real-time controller code generation for implementing the nonlinear control on engine control computer. Advanced engine control concepts such as active clearance control and adaptive engine control will also be demonstrated during the Phase II work. The design software and the control technology developed under the present SBIR will be commercialized during the Phase III research.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The rapid-prototyping software environment for nonlinear engine control design and real-time code generation developed under the proposed research will allow NASA to expeditiously examine the design tradeoffs in future engine development programs.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Nonlinear engine control systems will be able to exercise a more precise control over the engine dynamics, leading to better engine performance and life. The advanced control architecture may also allow better tradeoffs between engine performance and environmental specifications. The design software developed during the Phase II research will provide a rapid-prototyping capability for nonlinear engine control systems to NASA and aircraft engine developers.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
NexTech Materials, Ltd.
404 Enterprise Dr.
Lewis Center, OH 43035-9423
(614)842-6606

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Scott L. Swartz
swartz@nextechmaterials.com
404 Enterprise Dr.
Lewis Center, OH 43035-9423
(614)842-6606

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
As solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) approach commercialization, interest in broader applications of this technology is mounting. While the first commercialized systems are being designed to provide 3-5 kW in stationary and automotive auxiliary power unit (APU) applications, military and aerospace users are already considering integrating SOFCs into larger, airborne systems with considerable commercial payback. SOFCs are aligned to displace inefficient, noisy, and polluting technologies such as diesel generators that will provide both economic and environmental motivation to prospective users. NexTech Materials proposes to develop sulfur-tolerant autothermal reforming (ATR) catalysts for fuel processors of SOFC systems that operate with sulfur-containing aviation (Jet-A) fuels. The Phase I work will focus on synthesis and characterization of novel composite catalysts, design and construction of a reactor for catalyst performance tests, and evaluation of the performance of experimental catalysts for autothermal reforming of Jet-A fuel. Phase II of the project will involve further optimization of catalyst formulations, scale-up of the catalyst synthesis technology, development of monolith-supporting technology for the catalysts, and evaluation of monolith-supported catalysts in prototype ATR reformers.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The primary application for the proposed catalyst technology is for fuel processing components of solid oxide fuel cell systems. One of the key limitations to near-term commercialization of SOFC systems for aerospace applications is the lack of catalyst materials that will allow SOFCs to operate on existing aviation fuels. With successful development of such catalysts, SOFC systems can be integrated with gas turbines in auxiliary power units for commercial jet airliners, with expected advantages of reduced fuel consumption and substantially lower emissions of NOX and other pollutants.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The catalyst technology will enable development of efficient and environmentally friendly SOFC based power generation systems for a number of military, automotive, and commercial applications involving operation on liquid hydrocarbon fuels (gasoline, diesel, propane, etc.). For example, all branches of the U.S. military have critical unmet needs for strategic field power generation systems operating on existing logistic (diesel) fuels. Sulfur-tolerant reforming catalysts are required for SOFC devices being developed for such applications. Further, the proposed catalysts will be applicable to fuel processors in SOFC systems being developed for auxiliary power units for cars, trucks and recreational vehicles.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
TechLand Research, Inc.
28895 Lorain Road, Suite 201
North Olmsted, OH 44070-4049
(440)716-9077

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Lois J Weir
techland@stratos.net
28895 Lorain Road, Suite 201
North Olmsted, OH 44070-4049
(440)716-9077

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Hypersonic propulsion research has been a focus of the NASA aeronautics program for years. Previous high-speed cruise and space access programs have examined the problems of inlet design for hybrid systems, mainly by addressing one part of the flight envelope only. The proposed program will leverage existing technology by utilizing design data for the high-speed inlet for a Mach 5 over-under turbojet/ramjet propulsion system. The proposed effort will identify a variable geometry system that will effect mode transition between modes. An experimental research effort will be designed, and requirements for the research hardware (aerodynamic design and functionality) will be developed sufficiently to commence mechanical design early in a follow-on Phase II effort. The objective of the Phase II effort will be to experimentally demonstrate operation of the dual-flow inlet system during mode transition.

Mode transition of hypersonic inlet systems with dual flow paths represents one of the greatest challenges facing hypersonic propulsion system designers. The proposed research will provide design approaches to these problems, for which few workable solutions have yet been identified. The innovations in hypersonic inlet design technology provided by this and follow-on research will provide enabling technology required to bring low-cost hypersonic flight closer to practical reality.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA applications include hypersonic cruise or space access vehicles employing multi-mode propulsion systems with dual flow paths. Such systems include Rocket-Based Combined Cycle (RBCC) and Turbine-Based Combined Cycle (TBCC) systems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Military hypersonic cruise vehicles, global access vehicles, or hypersonic missiles employing multi-mode propulsion systems.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Innovative Scientific Solutions Inc
2766 Indian Ripple Rd
Dayton, OH 45440-3638
(937)429-4980

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Sivaram Gogineni
sivaram.gogineni@wpafb.af.mil
2766 Indian Ripple Rd
Dayton, OH 45440-3638
(937)255-8446

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
An experimental research program focusing on design, development, and testing of a novel nonequilibrium plasma ignition module is proposed. The ignition module will be based on the use of diffuse high-pressure transverse discharge technology recently developed at Ohio State using Air Force support. The proposed research is of critical importance for development of nonequilibrium plasma igniters modules for airplane jet engines. The primary objectives of the proposed research are (i) extending the use of the new nonequilibrium plasma ignition / flameholding method demonstrated in previous research by the current proposers to higher static pressures (up to P=0.5-1.0 atm), (ii) measuring the NOx emissions in the pulsed plasma stabilized flames and the plasma power budget, and (iii) studying the effect of the pulsed plasma on flame blow-off and relight. The proposed research will be conducted using gaseous hydrocarbon fuels. The results would have direct impact on development and the use of nonequilibrium plasma ignition modules for lean combustor operation and high altitude turbojet relight. The results would also elucidate kinetic mechanisms of plasma assisted ignition and flameholding.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Research performed during Phase I study will provide key experimental data which would help developing compact, low power budget nonequilibrium plasma ignition/flame stabilization modules to be used in commercial airplane jet engines. The use of these plasma ignition modules would make possible stable engine operation at low equivalence ratios, i.e. at the conditions when combustion becomes unstable. Engine operation at the lean conditions, using plasma flame stabilization, would also help reducing NOx emissions. Finally, the use of nonequlibrium plasma ignition modules would make possible high-altitude relight in case of a flameout.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Research performed during the proposed Phase I study will result in identification of realistic flow parameter range, including pressure, flow velocity, temperature, Mach number, and the equivalence ratios when nonequilibrium plasmas be efficiently used for ignition and flame stabilization. These results are of critical importance for future commercialization of plasma ignition technology for aero-propulsion applications. They will also significantly benefit research and development programs in both the commercial and on military aircraft industries. Considerable interest in using the results of the proposed research has been expressed by GE Aircraft Engines.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Continuum Dynamics, Inc.
34 Lexington Avenue
Ewing, NJ 08618-2302
(609)538-0444

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Todd R. Quackenbush
todd@continuum-dynamics.com
34 Lexington Avenue
Ewing, NJ 08618-2302
(609)538-0444

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Noise mitigation for subsonic transports is a continuing high priority, and recent work has identified successful exhaust mixing enhancement devices that have demonstrated substantial capability for reducing aircraft engine noise in critical takeoff and landing conditions. Existing fixed-geometry versions of such devices, however, are inherently limited to optimal noise mitigation in a single operating condition and also can impose significant performance penalties in cruise flight. An adaptive geometry device using smart structures technology offers the possibility of maximizing engine performance while retaining and possibly enhancing the favorable noise characteristics of current designs. The proposed Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of this concept, focusing on design and demonstration of variable geometry chevrons using rapidly maturing Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) actuation technology. This work represents an extension of prior successful development of solid state smart structures, though it will exploit new high temperature SMA (HTSMA) materials technology to enable the devices to operate in both low temperature (fan) and high temperature (core) exhaust flows. While important in its own right, this development also holds the promise of being the first step in development of a range of smart materials devices for a spectrum of aeropropulsion applications.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
By providing highly innovative concepts for propulsion system components for subsonic jet transports, the proposed effort will directly support a wide range of broad NASA goals including noise reduction and maximization of engine performance. The chief technical output of the effort will be enabling technology for a variable geometry devices to replace the promising but limited current generation of fixed-geometry chevrons. In addition, the integrated aero/thermo/elastic models of actuator performance to be developed will assist the development of concurrent engineering tools for analysis and design of propulsion flow control systems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
A successful Phase I/Phase II effort will open the door to prototype testing and eventual implementation of flight-qualified SMA adaptive chevron hardware. The most direct beneficiary would be next generation subsonic transports that could incorporate high-force, all-electric exhaust mixing control systems into power plants with an optimal balance of reduced noise and improved performance. Successful implementation in this application would also lead to spinoff developments in a number of actuation tasks, including aerodynamic controls and thrust vectoring as well as steering and outflow redirection for marine propulsion that would directly benefit both civil and military systems.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Technology in Blacksburg, Inc.
2901 Prosperity Rd.
Blacksburg, VA 24060-6644
(540)961-4401

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jason M Anderson
janderson@techsburg.com
2901 Prosperity Rd.
Blacksburg, VA 24060-6644
(540)961-4401

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Techsburg is teaming with the Vibration and Acoustics Laboratory of Virginia Tech to propose a non-linear analytical tool for designing Herschel-Quincke (HQ) waveguide arrays for the purpose of attenuating upstream-propagating shock waves in a transonic turbofan engine inlet. Techsburg will be receiving endorsement and support for this research from the Goodrich Company who owns the HQ waveguide array concept. Thus far linear acoustic modeling has been used to design HQ waveguide arrays that have experimentally proven to be successful in attenuating far-field sound radiation from subsonic ducted fans. However, the large transonic turbofan engines used in most civil aviation aircraft today produce large amplitude bow shocks upstream of the fan rotor that nonlinearly scatter energy from the dominant BPF circumferential mode near the fan rotor to primarily lower engine order circumferential modes at the duct entrance, which produces the "buzz-saw" far-field acoustic signature. The non-linear design tool developed by Techsburg/Virginia Tech in Phase I will be used to design an optimal HQ waveguide array in Phase II that will be placed near the fan with the intention of attenuating the BPF circumferential mode in order to reduce scattered energy into lower engine orders that cause far-field "buzz-saw" noise.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The nonlinear model of the interaction between upstream propagating shock waves from a transonic turbofan aero engine and Herschel-Quincke waveguide arrays that Techsburg proposes for this Phase I research program can be utilized by NASA as an acoustic analysis and design tool for commercial transonic turbofan aero engines. This computer model could also be used for the analysis of other innovative passive and active noise control devices placed in intake ducts supersonic ducted fans. NASA could also couple the results of this in-duct nonlinear acoustic propagation model to far-field prediction codes such as the finite element based Eversman code.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Due to shock propagation in transonic turbofan engines, analysis and design of intake duct acoustic treatment requires nonlinear analysis. The nonlinear model of the interaction between upstream propagating shock waves from a transonic turbofan aero engine and Herschel-Quincke (HQ) waveguide arrays that Techsburg proposes for this Phase I research program serves this need for turbofan aero engine manufacturers. The HQ array technique is a particularly promising passive noise control technique owned by the Goodrich company, who like other engine manufactures currently desires a nonlinear analysis and design tool for innovative noise control technology.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
ESI US R&D
202 North Curry Street, Suite 100
Carson City, NV 89703-4121
(858)350-0057

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Bryce Gardner
bgardner@vasci.com
12555 High Bluff Drive, Suite 250
San Diego, CA 92130-3005
(858)350-0057

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal discusses the development and application of new methods of structural-acoustic analysis in order to address existing problems in aircraft interior noise prediction. The proposed methods are based on a hybrid modeling strategy that combines Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA). Over the past five years, Vibro-Acoustic Sciences has devoted a considerable research effort towards the development of a framework for combining these two analysis methods. Recent research carried out by over the past two years has resulted in the development of a rigorous solution to this problem. The resulting Hybrid approach has been derived in general terms and validated for a number of simple structural-acoustic problems. However, the method has not yet been applied to aircraft interior noise prediction. A number of candidate aircraft interior noise problems have been identified which would benefit greatly from the use of the Hybrid method. The aims of the research described in this proposal are therefore: (i) to demonstrate the application of the Hybrid method to a number of existing aircraft interior noise problems, (ii) to develop the method to ensure it contains sufficient functionality to address practical aircraft interior noise problems and (iii) to demonstrate the value of the method in the prediction and reduction of noise in airframe systems.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
There is significant commercial potential for technology and software planned for the follow-on Phase II effort. The following market segments have been identified:
1) Commercial aircraft acoustic design ? flight deck, crew workstations and passenger cabin(s)
2) Commercial rotorcraft - flight deck safety and passenger comfort
3) Automobile interior noise ? sound package treatments, structure-borne noise, boom, etc.
4) Other transport vehicles ? railcars, ships, submarines, etc.
5) Consumer appliances in the home or office environment
6) Architectural/construction acoustics and noise control applications
7) Spacecraft random vibration environment prediction
8) Launch vehicle acoustic and vibration environment prediction

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
1) Aircraft interior noise research
2) Rotorcraft interior noise research
3) Manned spacecraft and on-orbit habitability research (eg. International Space Station)
4) Launch vehicle acoustic environment prediction
5) Spacecraft random vibration environment prediction
6) On-orbit spacecraft vibration environment

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Continuum Dynamics, Inc.
34 Lexington Avenue
Ewing, NJ 08618-2302
(609)538-0444

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Daniel A. Wachspress
dan@continuum-dynamics.com
34 Lexington Avenue
Ewing, NJ 08618-2302
(609)538-0444

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal outlines a plan for enhancing and integrating new breakthrough technologies to provide accurate real-time noise prediction of V/STOL aircraft in maneuvering flight within a flight simulation environment. Loading, thickness and BVI noise sources, which often dominate the noise spectrum, will be predicted from first principles by coupling Continuum Dynamics, Inc.'s unique real-time full-span free-vortex wake model with Penn State University's innovative PSU-WOPWOP maneuvering flight noise prediction method. General rotorcraft configurations will be supported (e.g., tiltrotor, coaxial, tandem, main rotor/tail rotor) as well as ducted fan and powered lift aircraft. Other noise sources (e.g., broadband, engine, and self-noise) will be modeled using the most advanced empirical methods available today. Atmospheric absorption, spherical spreading, ground reflection, attenuation and acoustic phasing will be modeled through a direct coupling with Wyle Laboratory's state-of-the-art RNM code to provide accurate ground noise assessment required for low noise flight path planning. Further enhancements could lead to onboard flight management systems able to monitor and reduce ground noise levels in flight, a capability that would both improve public acceptance of V/STOL aircraft introduced into the National Airspace System and save the lives of military aviators operating rotorcraft in hostile territory.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA is interested in the introduction of V/STOL aircraft into the National Airspace System to increase airport capacity but must address the impact of high noise levels on passenger and community acceptance. In this regard, the proposed effort directly responds to NASA's stated goal of developing new computational models to conduct detailed assessments of candidate concepts. The flight simulation tool will enable NASA to assess ground noise levels of potential concepts, to design low noise flight paths, and to evaluate the impact of noise control procedures on crew workload without the need for expensive flight tests.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed tool will offer aircraft developers and air traffic managers a method for analyzing low noise concepts in the design phase. The real-time capability will support design optimization trade studies. Heliports, airports, operators and the FAA will be able to utilize the tool in flight path planning, particularly that involving the introduction of V/STOL aircraft into the NAS. Eventual incorporation into onboard flight management systems will allow aircraft operators to monitor ground noise levels in flight. Currently there is no commercially available tool of this kind able to directly compute V/STOL noise at this high level of fidelity.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
SMD Corporation
4821 Shippen Court
Virginia Beach, VA 23455-4734
(757)519-9546

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Curtis R Mitchell
ozzy6fuller@netscape.net
4821 Shippen Court
Virginia Beach, VA 23455-4734
(757)519-9546

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
In this project advanced acoustic blankets for improved low frequency interior noise control in aircraft will be developed and demonstrated. The improved performance is achieved with a novel lightweight composite system that has been previously experimentally demonstrated on laboratory structures. The advanced blanket system will also satisfy new flammability and toxicity requirements with minimal integration issues. Work will be carried out with our partner NEVA Associates and acoustic material manufacturers to design commercial versions of the advanced blankets suitable for aircraft. Integration issues related to application in aircraft fuselages will be considered.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Potential NASA commercial applications of the new technology are throughout the US commercial and general aviation industry. The advanced blankets will result in quieter interiors of aircraft and also satisfy new flammability and toxicity requirements. The new blanket systems will thus increase the economic competiveness of the US aircraft industry worldwide.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Potential non-NASA commercial applications of the technology include reducing sound in defense aircraft, automobiles, industrial equipment as well as reduction of payload noise in launch vehicle fairings. The technology will result in a new, innovative passive blanket technology for noise control that will find general application in a multitude of products where low frequency noise control is important. The product will be of high economic benefit to many US industries that compete worldwide.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
ELECTRON ENERGY CORPORATION
924 Links Avenue
Landisville, PA 17538-1615
(717)898-2294

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jinfang Liu
jfl@electronenergy.com
924 Links Ave.
Landisville, PA 17538-1615
(717)898-2294

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Previous high temperature magnetic bearings employed only electromagnets. The work proposed in this SBIR program seeks to utilize High Temperature Permanent Magnets (HTPM) developed by EEC. The use of HTPMs will improve efficiency since the majority of the static load on any bearing can be reacted by the flux of the permanent magnets.

The end product will be a high speed / high temperature / high load test platform for future development of high bearing, motor, generator and seal components. This capability will be of special benefit to the aerospace and process machinery industries. In addition the component demonstrations from this SBIR will provide designers with the confidence needed to integrate similar components in their high performance machinery.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
(a) High temperature magnetic bearings can be used for energy storage / attitude control flywheels for aerospace applications. High speed, vacuum operation and low bearing drag make magnetic bearings the best bearings for this application.

(b) High temperature magnetic bearings can also be used for gas turbine engines for aircraft applications. High temperature capability makes magnetic bearings a very attractive option for the new generation of high performance aircraft gas turbine engines which require bearings that will operate continuously at 1000 F. Bearing assemblies must supply damping to stabilize rotor dynamic vibrations along with providing support. Conventional bearing/dampers which utilize oils or elastomers will not operate at these high temperatures.

(c) Deep space exploration will require nuclear power utilizing Brayton and Sterling engines. The corrosive affects of potassium make it advantageous to totally "can" the process fluids so that seals are not required. The support for the shaft in a canned pump can only come from a magnetic bearing since its flux passes through the thin stainless steel can.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Magnetic bearings (MB) have gained wide acceptance for petrochemical industry compressors, turbo expanders and motors. Turbo-molecular vacuum pumps also employ magnetic bearings since they permit the flow passages to be canned to prevent leakage and achieve an improved vacuum.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Adherent Technologies
9621 Camino del Sol NE
Albuquerque, NM 87111-1522
(505)346-1685

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Ronald E. Allred
adherenttech@earthlink.net
9621 Camino del Sol NE
Albuquerque, NM 87111-1522
(505)346-1685

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Nano forms of graphite and carbon, such as flakes, worms, and tubes, can significantly modify the properties of polymers when used as reinforcements. Challenges remain in processing composites with these nano-reinforcements in the form of attaining uniform dispersions. Many of these difficulties are due to a lack of wetting of the nano-reinforcements by the polymer. Poor wetting is caused by the very low surface energy of the as-produced graphite nano-reinforcements. Opportunities exist for modifying the surface chemistry and energy of nano-reinforcements that will allow improved wetting and provide a means for chemical bonding at the interface with high temperature polymers such as PMR-II-50 polyimide. Two approaches for surface modification are proposed: (1) oxidative plasma treatments to populate the graphite surface with carboxyl and hydroxyl groups, and (2) bonding of polyimide oligomers to the nano-reinforcements using reactive coupling agents. Both of these approaches have proven successful with micron size carbon and graphite fibers and with nanofibers. As such, these treatments should result in nano-reinforced composites with superior mechanical properties and environmental durability.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The surface modified graphite nano-reinforcements will find use in numerous demanding applications. In particular, when combined with high temperature polyimide resins, they will be used in engine and propulsion applications to reduce weight and improve performance. They will also find uses with conventional fiber-reinforced composites to increase matrix properties.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
These unique nano-reinforcements will find many applications in structural composites for military and commercial aircraft, aerospace, chemical processing, and medical structures. The nano-materials markets are projected in the billions of dollars in the next decade, which will provide numerous outlets for the surface modified nano-reinforcements.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
UES Inc
4401 Dayton-Xenia Rd
Dayton, OH 45432-1894
(937)426-6900

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Amarendra K. Rai
arai@ues.com
4401 Dayton-Xenia Road
Dayton, OH 45432-1894
(937)426-6900

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Silicon based ceramics are the leading candidates for the high temperature structural components of the advanced propulsion engines. For such applications, one key drawback of silicon based ceramics is the volatilization of the protective silica scale in engine relevant oxidizing and water vapor environments at temperatures up to 1500 degrees C. Thus for the realization of silicon based ceramic components in advanced propulsion engines, environmental and thermal protective coatings will be needed. UES, Inc. proposes to develop a multifunctional environmental barrier coating concept utilizing advanced materials, coating design and coating processing technique for low thermal expansion silicon nitride. The performance and stability of the coatings developed in this program will be determined in relevant engine environments at temperatures up to 1500 degrees C. Based upon the test results coating design and process parameters will be further refined in Phase II.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Advanced Si based ceramics are the candidates for future NASA reusable space propulsion components. Robust environmental barrier coatings will be a critical part for successful introduction of advanced Si based ceramics and composites in future space vehicles.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Successful completion of the proposed technology through Phase I and Phase II effort will also enable the usage of Si based ceramics in the propulsion engines of Department of Defense vehicle applications. In the private sector, the proposed technology can be used in aircraft propulsion, and electric power generation, ceramic diesel and gasoline internal combustion engines.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
N&R ENGINEERING
6659 Pearl Road. #400
Parma Heights, OH 44130-3821
(440)845-7020

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
William Strack
bstrack@wowway.com
6659 Pearl Road. #400
Parma Heights, OH 44130-3821
(440)845-7020

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The work proposed herein would establish a concurrent design environment that enables aerospace hardware designers to rapidly determine optimum risk-constrained designs subject to multiple uncertainties in applied loads, material properties, and manufacturing processes. This means that the design process no longer would consist of a sequence of separate code invocations to: (1) obtain the geometry model, (2) determine the various loads, (3) determine performance, (4) perform a structural analysis, (5) perform design optimization, and (6) perform a probabilistic risk assessment. Instead, all of these functions would be automatically incorporated into a single framework using existing physics-based deterministic modeling codes and a set of computer-generated data transfer interfaces. Thus, a design engineer would be able to rapidly explore the design space to identify the minimum weight design that meets a given reliability constraint ? thereby avoiding both an overly conservative design and a too-risky design. For example, the software tools that implement this innovation could be used to determine the wall thickness of a launch vehicle's external cryogenic propellant tanks exposed to high but uncertain thermal and aerodynamic loads and with a reliability probability of 0.99999.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The work proposed herein would establish a concurrent design environment that enables aerospace hardware designers to rapidly determine optimum risk-constrained designs subject to multiple uncertainties in applied loads, material properties, and manufacturing processes. This means that the design process no longer would consist of a sequence of separate code invocations to: (1) obtain the geometry model, (2) determine the various loads, (3) determine performance, (4) perform a structural analysis, (5) perform design optimization, and (6) perform a probabilistic risk assessment. Instead, all of these functions would be automatically incorporated into a single framework using existing physics-based deterministic modeling codes and a set of computer-generated data transfer interfaces. Thus, a design engineer would be able to rapidly explore the design space to identify the minimum weight design that meets a given reliability constraint ? thereby avoiding both an overly conservative design and a too-risky design. For example, the software tools that implement this innovation could be used to determine the wall thickness of a launch vehicle's external cryogenic propellant tanks exposed to high but uncertain thermal and aerodynamic loads and with a reliability probability of 0.99999.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
A fundamental architectural change in the design process is proposed that could revolutionize the ways many commercial designs are conducted that involve advanced technology and important uncertainties. For example, high-tech applications such as jet engines, central powerplants, artificial hearts, flight-qualified control system actuators, home heat pumps/air conditioners, automotive engines, and avionic circuit boards all require ultra-reliable, minimal-maintenance operation. Some of these operate in uncertain hostile environments and all involve a continuous stream of technical improvements with inherent uncertainties.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
TPL Inc
3921 Academy Parkway North, NE
Albuquerque, NM 87109-4416
(505)344-6744

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Charles D.E. Lakeman
clakeman@tplinc.com
3921 Academy Parkway North, NE
Albuquerque, NM 87109-4416
(505)342-4427

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Embedded wireless sensors of the future will enable flight vehicle systems to be "highly aware" of onboard health and performance parameters, as well as the external flow field and potential threat environments. Because there will be no opportunity to replace batteries on a regular basis, these systems will have to rely on energy harvesting strategies to convert ambient energy into electrical energy to provide long-lived power. TPL proposes to develop a MEMS-scale power system that will combine TPL's patented volumetric electrochemical micro-devices (microbatteries and microsupercapacitors) with energy harvesting for long lived power. Volumetric electrochemical devices are a unique and critical feature of our approach, which provide energy storage capabilities and high power density to minimize the total volume and footprint of the micropower system. The proposed effort will evaluate designs combining microbatteries, microsupercapacitors and energy harvesting devices with respect to the trade-offs between size, maximum power, duty cycle, and energy source availability. TPL's partner, the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU/APL), brings expertise in the space arena, and will provide technical guidance and advice on sensor requirements, integration and packaging for space. This partnership will be critical to realizing space-qualified devices.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
MEMS, and microsystems in general, will enable miniaturized accelerometers, gyroscopes, and numerous other innovative sensors and actuators. Furthermore, the advancement of wireless communication technologies opens the possibility of completely wireless systems, eliminating the cost, weight and potential for failure of conventional wiring. These systems will find application in structural health monitoring for various aerospace vehicles including robotic probes, space shuttles, and aircraft. All these devices will need a small size source of electrical power. The proposed innovative devices will provide a novel, low-cost solution to this need.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
As with many NASA-funded innovations, there are numerous civilian as well as defense applications for small form-factor, environmentally benign electrochemical power sources. As microsystems find wider use in government and consumer applications, such as active RFID tags, sensors for industrial process control, chem./bio agent detection, power in a small size package will become critical.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Cornerstone Research Group Inc
2750 Indian Ripple Road
Dayton, OH 45440-3325
(937)320-1877

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Benjamin A. Dietsch
dietschba@crgrp.net
2750 Indian Ripple Road
Dayton, OH 45440-3325
(937)320-1877

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Cornerstone Research Group Inc. (CRG) proposes to develop an advanced reflexive structure system to increase the survivability of aerostructures. This reflexive system will mimic the pain withdrawal reflex on which the human body relies. The proposed reflexive system will incorporate a continuous health and performance monitoring system via an embedded dielectric film, an adaptive composite structure based on CRG's shape memory composite material (Veritex^TM), and an intelligence system which will be interfaced with both the health/performance sensors and the adaptive structure. When activated, Veritex^TM will recover its structural integrity via shape recovery and a novel healing process. These features enable the use of Veritex^TM as an adaptive structure in the proposed reflexive system. The development of a reflexive system for aerostructures will enable increased safety and security and demonstrate a better understanding of integrated performance systems. This reflexive technology could find immediate implementation on all current and future UCAV systems and future implementation on platforms such as the International Space Station, Lunar, and Martian habitats.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Supporting NASA's Aeronautics Enterprise, this project's technologies directly address requirements for enhanced aircraft safety and survivability. These technologies will enable conceptual flight vehicle/platform designs integrating smart, intelligent, and adaptive flight vehicle capabilities. The International Space Station, Lunar, and Martian habitats are all examples of structures that will benefit from a reflexive system.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This project's technologies developed for NASA systems would directly apply to systems operated by other government and commercial enterprises. Government systems that would derive the same benefits would include, but not be limited to, aircraft structures, marine structures, shelter structures, and many other structural systems operated by all agencies of the Department of Defense. This technology's attributes for reflexive repair should yield a high potential for private sector commercialization for reflexive systems for many types of structures that see combat environments.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
American GNC Corporation
888 Easy Street
Simi Valley, CA 93065-1812
(805)582-0582

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Ching-Fang Lin
cflin@americangnc.com
888 Easy Street
Simi Valley, CA 93065-1812
(805)582-0582

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The objective of this SBIR Phase I project is to develop and demonstrate a low cost, lightweight, miniaturized Integrated Collision Avoidance Enhanced GN&C System for Smart Air Vehicles. The proposed system takes advantage of the latest Commercial-Off-the-Shelf (COTS) components, American GNC Corporation's products and patents to achieve an integrated, guidance, navigation, and control (GN&C) micro system for air vehicles, which is capable of assisting aircraft pilots to avoid approach and collision with ground/water and other near objects in flight. The various data from the IMU, GPS chipset, terrain data base, magnetometer, and object detection sensors are processed to produce collision warning audio/visual messages and collision avoidance guidance commands in a closed-loop system. In this Phase I project, the feasibility, as well as functions, specifications, hardware architecture, algorithms and software of the proposed system will be investigated, simulated, and demonstrated.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The product developed in this project, Integrated Collision Avoidance Enhanced GN&C System is applicable to several commercial applications including Air Traffic Management (ATM), smart vehicles, and intelligent transportation systems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
In addition to the potential applications for NASA's Enabling Concepts and Technologies program, the proposed GN&C system is also well-suited?due to its small size, low cost, and light weight?to a wide range of NASA systems, including: remote sensing platforms, extravehicular robotic systems, telerobotics, and UAVs.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
SenAnTech, Inc.
5444 Silver Creek
Columbus, OH 43228-9062
(614)571-2117

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Seung-Keon Kwak
senantech@yahoo.com
5444 Silver Creek
Columbus, OH 43228-9062
(614)571-2117

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
In this SBIR project, a new Morphing Flight Control Surface (MFCS) will be developed. The distinction of the research effort is that the SenAnTech team will employ our innovative High Deformable Mechanism (HDM) to develop MFCS. The utilization of energy is the important concern to accomplish this research goal. Energy is chosen because it provides a mechanism where all concepts can be represented and judged in a consistent fashion. Ultimately, this research will provide a novel methodology for predicting the type, placement, and operation of actuators and sensors for aerial vehicles that incorporate large-scale shape changing for the improved flight performances. The MFCS will consist of hardware, software and processing units. The actuators, sensors, wiring, signal conditioning and, associated electronics will be selected as required. Modern systems technology like controllability and observability of the system will be examined for the optimal actuator and sensor placements. Also, shaped or digitized electrode technology will be applied to measure the spatial energy distribution of the deformable wing.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The new proposed Morphing Flight Control Surface (MFCS) can be used in future morphing control surfaces for NASA's experimental flight vehicles (manned or unmanned). This innovative system will assist to achieve the precision control, robust stability and future multi-mission capabilities including the ability to loiter (reconnaissance) and then dash (move quickly to another point).

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The direct result of this research will be a valuable asset to defense industry in the support of future multi-mission flight vehicles. Since mission adaptive air vehicles are presently being pursued by every major defense contractor, including Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing, the research proposed in this document will have lasting benefits to the aerospace industries as well.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Rolling Hills Research Corporation
420 N. Nash Street
El Segundo, CA 90245-2822
(310)640-8781

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Michael F Kerho
mike@RollingHillsResearch.com
420 N. Nash Street
El Segundo, CA 90245-2822
(310)640-8781

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
An important mission for NASA is the development of revolutionary flight concepts and technology. The development of Micro unmanned air vehicles (Micro-UAVs) and Mars aircraft has received considerable attention in recent years. Unlike conventional aircraft and UAVs, Micro-UAVs and Mars aircraft suffer from operation in an extremely low Reynolds number flight regime. Both Micro-UAVs and Mars aircraft can have operational Reynolds number regimes from 20,000 to 120,000. At these extremely low Reynolds numbers, the aerodynamic flow features are dominated by laminar separation and separation bubble effects, which are the primary source of poor performance in both drag and maximum lift for this class of vehicles. It is proposed to use a robust and powerful active transition fixing technique to eliminate the effects of these large separation bubbles and provide revolutionary performance as of yet unobtainable by this class of ultra low Reynolds number vehicles. By artificially transitioning the flow upstream of the laminar separation bubble, the bubble itself can be eliminated resulting in a greatly reduced drag. The increased resistance to separation of a simple turbulent boundary-layer can pay revolutionary dividends at these very low Reynolds numbers.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The enhanced active transition fixing technology will provide revolutionary performance for ultra low Reynolds number vehicles including Micro-UAVs and Mars Aircraft. Additionally, low Reynolds number propeller based propulsions systems will also greatly benefit from this technology. Finally, the technology can provide significant performance improvements for any low Reynolds number system suffering from laminar separation issues. Considering NASA's recent emphasis on Mars Exploratory aircraft and its designs for small Micro-UAV designs, the NASA commercial applications potential for the technology is excellent.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The enhanced active transition fixing technology will provide revolutionary performance for ultra low Reynolds number vehicles including Micro-UAVs and Mars Aircraft. Additionally, low Reynolds number propeller based propulsions systems will greatly benefit from this technology. Finally, the technology can provide significant performance improvements for any low Reynolds number system suffering from laminar separation issues. Considering the recent proliferation of small and Micro-UAVs designs, its commercialization potential is excellent. RHRC will be able to license the active transition fixing technology or provide a complete ultra low Reynolds number airfoil design or design services for customers.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Continuum Dynamics, Inc.
34 Lexington Avenue
Ewing, NJ 08618-2302
(609)538-0444

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Robert M. McKillip, Jr.
bob@continuum-dynamics.com
34 Lexington Avenue
Ewing, NJ 08618-2302
(609)538-0444

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Two novel flight control actuation concepts for UAV applications are proposed for research and development, both of which incorporate shape memory alloy (SMA) wires as prime movers. These actuators promise considerable savings in weight, power, and volume over existing electomechanical and hydraulic systems. Incorporation of these actuators within lifting surface structure, or as trailing edge control devices, would greatly simplify the actuation systems of these aircraft, thereby permitting greater payload fraction, increased range, enhanced robustness, and/or smaller vehicle size, and thus reduce both operational and fixed system costs. Choice between the two actuation concepts for a particular installation represents a tradeoff in actuation system bandwidth and power availability, and thus the same vehicle may include both systems depending upon the particular functional requirements. These actuators represent a derivative technology from a previous Army SBIR Phase I/II effort directed at providing in-flight helicopter blade tracking using actively controlled trailing edge tabs, and thus have been designed to have low mass and low power requirements from their inception. Since they lack any physical hinge joints, they may be embedded directly within aircraft lifting surfaces, eliminating interference drag associated with control deflection.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA has a need for advanced control actuation and systems to support long endurance high-altitude UAV applications. This technology would help mitigate known issues with reduced aeroelastic stability of such high altitude platforms, as well as provide vehicle robustness (load alleviation) to atmospheric gusts. Its all-electric actuation and lack of moving parts (i.e., no discrete hinges) enhances the actuator's capability to support longer duration UAV missions planned by NASA for the future.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The actuators developed here could support DoD applications and commercial aircraft uses for UAV flight control and ancillary functions such as deploying flaps, landing gear and doors that house optics or weapons. They have a minimum number of moving parts, are extremely lightweight for the actuation stroke and force they provide, and utilize modest electrical power. In one configuration, electric power is only required to switch the actuator between discrete positions, making this actuator ideally suited for flap deployment and/or trim tab applications. These devices may also be used as auxiliary trim systems and flight control units for manned aircraft.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
FLUID FLOW TECHNOLOGIES, L.L.C.
4311 Valli Vista
Colorado Springs, CO 80915-1035
(719)591-7113

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Greg Glatzmaier
greg.glatzmaier@pcisys.net
4311 Valli Vista
Colorado Springs, CO 80915-1035
(719)591-7113

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposed work will develop a new method and mechanism for generating wing stroke motion of any shape and orientation. The mechanism will provide power, lift and flight control to small aircraft in a single integrated unit. The key innovation is the means by which wing motion is generated without the use any complex mechanical components. Wing motion of any shape and orientation can be generated with this mechanism. The arrangement of wings is such that the mechanism is mechanically balanced and exerts no net torque or force on the aircraft. This method is applicable to small UAVs (uninhabited aerial vehicles) and will provide them with a simple and reliable means of producing power, lift and flight control. The versatility of this mechanism is expected to provide UAVs with high maneuverability. This method will be most valuable for UAVs that are used as planetary aircraft as well as for general surveillance and reconnaissance.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This simple mechanism and electronics will result in long-term reliability, low manufacturing cost and a scalable design. Its mechanically balanced operation will provide a UAV platform which is capable of producing very stable and steady flight. This feature will be valuable for all applications including aerial imaging. Small-scale UAV designs will lead to a product that has low mass, volume, and power consumption. All of these features are of great value for use as planetary aircraft. This mechanism will also be a valuable research tool for flight testing UAV wings and studying the aerodynamics of insect flight.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Terrestrial markets for small UAV may become extensive. Military markets include surveillance, reconnaissance, positioning and targeting applications. Surveillance and reconnaissance applications extend to non-military markets including law enforcement. Private markets include a wide range of possibilities such as aerial access, inspection, and imaging of locations that are inaccessible to personnel within power plants, chemical plants, manufacturing facilities and other complex structures. The benefits that are provided by a small, maneuverable UAV could be of great value to a variety of manufacturing industries which use large and complex facilities.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Zona Technology Inc
7430 E. Stetson Drive, Suite 205
Scottsdale, AZ 85251-3540
(480)945-9988

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dario H Baldelli
dario@zonatech.com
7430 E. Stetson Drive, Suite 205
Scottsdale, AZ 85251-3540
(480)945-9988

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
ZONA Technology proposes to develop an enhanced model updating nonlinear system identification (MUNSID) methodology by adopting the flight data with state-of-the-art control oriented techniques. The end product is a flight data enhanced MUNSID/ZAERO toolbox for accurate predictions of flutter and limit cycle oscillation (LCO) instabilities.

The enhancement employs control oriented techniques, namely, model uncertainty, linear fractional transformation framework, mu-analysis and nonlinear operators identification, to adopt the emerging aeroelastic flight-test data. This toolbox augments the current match-point solution approach using the mu-analysis method with identified nonlinear operators. The procedure calls for ZAERO's high-fidelity linear aeroelastic model to be tuned quickly with available aeroelastic/aeroservoelastic, AE/ASE, flight data sets, while block-oriented models are used to highlight the underlying nonlinear structure of the AE/ASE system. This framework is capable of accounting for several nonlinearities including those due to aerodynamics, structures, control/actuator, and/or geometry. The toolbox will be used as the next-generation flutterometer to predict the onset of AE/ASE instabilities. Two case studies, simple and complex dynamic ASE systems, are proposed to validate and verified this advanced control-oriented concept. This enabling technology will be invaluable to the flight test community by extending the current industry modeling tools to include nonlinear operators identified from wind-tunnel/flight-test data.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
A model updating software tool for a general nonlinear AE/ASE system stability boundary prediction is still non-existent. NASA/DFRC has been working for many years towards achieving a software package that would predict the onset of AE/ASE instabilities with a high factor of safety for efficient envelope expansion. The proposed MUNSID/ZAERO toolbox is aimed at providing an expedient on-line prediction capability that integrates with current NASA procedures in the control room. The toolbox will be especially valuable during flight tests of the F/A-18 AAW, the F-15 IFF, the X-45 HyperX, the ERAST, and even future RevCon projects.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
ZONA's business plan for this toolbox will follow the existing ZAERO product/service strategy. The toolbox will be marketed towards the flight test applications on a wide class of aerospace vehicles: (a) USAF's UAV/UCAV, joint-wing sensor craft, (b) Next generation Micro Air Vehicle (MAV) with enhanced control/maneuver capability, (c) DARPA Morphing aircraft program, and (d) Boeing's 7E7 and executive jet designs of Cessna, Raytheon, etc. Potential customers for the MUNSID/ZAERO toolbox include engineers in the automotive, maritime, power system industry; and many others. Additionally, it can also be used to perform health management of flexible structures.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Stirling Dynamics Inc
4030 Lake Washington Blvd NE, Suite 205
Kirkland, WA 98033-7870
(425)827-7476

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Robert Stirling
rstirling@stirling-dynamics.com
4030 Lake Washington Blvd NE, Suite 205
Kirkland, WA 98033-7870
(425)827-7476

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
A novel approach is proposed for reducing the degree of interaction of a high gain flight control system with the airframe structural vibration modes, representing a complete departure from the traditional approach of using notch filters. In principle it offers similar or better performance than notch filters, while not suffering from the attendant low frequency phase lag that has an adverse effect on pilot handling qualities. Structural mode interaction can be a significant problem in high performance aircraft and other aircraft with low frequency vibration modes. Use of notch filters requires a compromise to be reached between airframe structural stability and handling qualities. Successful application of the proposed method will relieve the flight control system designer of the need for managing this compromise and will allow the achievement of full potential system performance with better handling qualities. Basic feasibility has already been established and Phase I will broadened this to cover practical implementation issues and to define test evaluation plans. Phase II will extend the method into actual test evaluation, either by laboratory test or flight test, or both. Other possible applications such as aircraft active control systems and control of space structures will be considered during the research program.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA is involved in development of advanced FCS concepts for various manned and unmanned aircraft which require treatment of interaction between the FCS and aeroelastic characteristics. Structural mode interactions are exacerbated by the introduction of adaptive systems, so the proposed SBIR project is relevant to these projects. Flight test and evaluation phases will require consultancy on the implementation aspects of the method. Other NASA projects, e.g. control of space structures, are potential applications. Enhanced scope of application and functionality of the NASA STARS software represents another NASA sales opportunity. Approximately 50% of consultancy and software sales would be with NASA.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
New aircraft projects, modifications and upgrades planned by military and commercial aircraft manufacturers are potential customers for future non-NASA sales of the proposed design method. Demand will arise from successful demonstration of FCS performance benefits from avoiding notch filters. Changes to an existing FCS are normally quite difficult for a range of practical considerations, including certification issues, suggesting that the avionics companies form another customer base. Applications in other industry sectors; space, robotics, civil machinery, etc., form a significant prospect for potential future revenues. Approximately 50% of future revenue from consultancy and software sales is anticipated from these non-NASA applications.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
ResearchSouth Inc
555 Sparkman Dr Suite 1612
Huntsville, AL 35816-0000
(256)721-1769

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Lawrence W. Spradley
lws@hiwaay.net
555 Sparkman Dr Suite 1612
Huntsville, AL 35816-0000
(256)721-1769

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The innovations proposed by ResearchSouth are: 1) a robust method to automatically insert high quality anisotropic prismatic (viscous boundary layer) cells into any existing CFD mesh; and 2) a robust unstructured mesh movement method able to handle isotropic (Euler), anisotropic (viscous), and mixed element grids for CFD applications, particularly, CFD-based design optimization. ResearchSouth is proposing to develop efficient, design-oriented application software that will significantly impact the current practice of computational design and analysis of aerospace vehicles. The most overlooked?and arguably the most enabling?technical aspect associated with the rapidly maturing CFD-based design optimization is mesh movement, especially for high Reynolds number viscous flow applications. CFD analysis based on unstructured grid technology is becoming the preferred approach for flow analysis of geometrically complex configurations. However, in the area of mesh movement and viscous mesh generation, the unstructured grid arena has experienced near paralysis for several years. We are proposing research that will provide robust solutions to both of these challenges and, thus, will provide air vehicle designers access to the full potential of unstructured grid technologies for performing design optimization as well as highly efficient "what-if-and-reanalyze" geometric modifications.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA applications include design optimization of new access to space vehicles, interface with multi-disciplinary software, and propulsion system optimization. Our software will add critical functionality to NASA-developed unstructured grid CFD software including the SAMdesign package just delivered by ResearchSouth to NASA Dryden. Since our proposed mesh methods are also applicable to structural finite element analyses, the various multidisciplinary analysis and optimization efforts at NASA can also use this meshing software.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
No commercial software currently exists that reliably and robustly handles unstructured mesh movement. The potential market for our software is very broad?our software can be used for fluid applications in the aerodynamic, automotive, biomedical, turbomachinery, and hydroelectric fields as well as for structural and electromagnetic applications. Each of these markets can immensely benefit from design optimization, provided that unstructured mesh movement and viscous mesh generation are no longer impediments.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Engineering Acoustics
933 Lewis Drive Suite C
Winter Park, FL 32789-0000
(407)645-5444

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Bruce J. P. Mortimer
bmort@eaiinfo.com
933 Lewis Drive Suite C
Winter Park, FL 32789-2261
(407)645-5444

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Real-time displacement measurement techniques are needed to acquire aerodynamic and structural system characteristics in flight. This proposal describes the development of a new type of position sensor which we have termed a Point Coupled Sensor (PCS). This sensor is able to detect the position of a target, typically a small piece of metal or magnetic material, in one or two dimensions. The one dimensional (1-D) or linear embodiment of the sensor is similar in function to the well-known linear variable differential transformer (LVDT). In this configuration, it is anticipated that the PCS will provide similar measurement accuracies, but with significant cost, size and weight reduction. This makes the PCS especially attractive for use in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV's) and other applications where size and weight are important. The PCS approach can also be implemented as a two-dimensional (2-D) sensor, which may facilitate the measurement of complex surfaces, and holds promise for many new and evolving UAV and aircraft applications such as aeroelastic wings and measuring the position of swept surfaces or moving panels. The PCS two-dimensional concept also offers the potential to introduce novel surface sensor measurement functionality and could conceivably be fabricated within the composite aircraft structure.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Displacement sensing is prevalent on all aircraft platforms. Various sensors are applied to a multitude of functions including: Flight controls, control surfaces and actuators, landing gear, munitions, speed brake doors, brake and steering systems, fuel and engine controls, environmental controls. The PCS technology described in this proposal is especially well suited to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Space Flight where weight is of primary concern.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Second to temperature measurement, displacement is the most widely measured analogue parameter in both industrial and laboratory settings. Current LVDT sensors are a mature technology in widespread in use, with a market in the USA on the order of US$ 250 million p.a. The proposed PCS technology is believed to be superior to LVDT's in every respect and further offers the potential for flexible and planar configurations. As such, it could replace existing technology in a variety of commercial and industrial applications such as industrial tooling and measurement, and a variety of scientific devices, as well as extend capability into new applications demanding compact, lightweight, high accuracy displacement sensors.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Intelligent Automation, Inc.
15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20855-2785
(301)294-5200

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Vikram Manikonda
vikram@i-a-i.com
15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20855-2785
(301)294-5245

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The key innovation proposed here is the use of agent-based modeling and simulation to evaluate the safety of the National Airspace under crisis operations and develop tools for real-time planning, scheduling, and resource allocation decision aids for crisis management. We view the problem as one of simulating and controlling the emergent behavior of autonomous agents (aircraft and air traffic service providers in this case) in crisis situations. We propose to use NASA's agent-based Airspace Concept Evaluation System as the modeling framework into which we will integrate our models. We propose to evaluate the impacts of these malicious agents on the safety of NAS by using simulation to assess short term and long term NAS-wide safety impacts in terms of loss of separation, near misses, collisions, re-routes, controller workload, and economic impacts. The agent-based system will provide a real-time planning, scheduling, and resource allocation decision aid to be used for crisis management, by providing the user capabilities to develop and execute playbooks that represent various policies. Finally, we propose to develop safety metrics that will provide command center traffic management coordinators indicators to predict off-nominal activities in the airspace.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Our primary customers for this effort will be NASA. Following September 11, 2001, NASA has recognized the need for shared responsibility for improving homeland security. A successful Phase I effort will result in a modeling, simulation and decision support tool that will enable policy makers to use simulation to evaluate and assess impacts of possible threats to the NAS, and develop strategies to reduce vulnerability. Specify benefits will be to bale to assess system-wide security risk assessment and incident precursor identification. The simulation tool with its associated metrics will also enable policy makes to evaluate economic impacts of safety policies.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The simulation system developed in this effort can be adapted and modified for military for use in simulation war-gaming scenarios. The proposed technology can also be adapted to developed crowd management strategies in crisis settings.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mosaic ATM, Inc.
1190 Hawling Pl
Leesburg, VA 20175-5084
(703)737-7637

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Chris Brinton
brinton@mosaicatm.com
1190 Hawling Pl
Leesburg, VA 20175-5084
(703)737-7637

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The Surface Management System (SMS), developed by NASA Ames Research Center in cooperation with the FAA, has received wide and significant acceptance by the air transportation community. The SMS utilizes flight plan data and airport surface surveillance data to track and model the operation of flights on the airport surface. Predictions of flight arrival and departure times from specific runways are generated by SMS. SMS provides these predictions of future airport operations to numerous airport, ATC and air carrier users to create shared situational awareness. NASA continues to conduct advanced research on airport surface traffic management concepts and tools. Fundamental research in this area has been very difficult to conduct in the past, however, due to the lack of electronic data representing airport surface operations. With the current deployment of airport surface surveillance systems, such data is now becoming available. This effort proposes the creation of a surface operations data warehouse and analysis tool for effective analysis and understanding of airport surface operations. Data mining capabilities will support research of taxi routing, sequencing and congestion management strategies used by air traffic controllers. Such a tool will also provide significant benefit in the SMS adaptation process.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The Surface Operations Data Analysis and Adaptation (SODAA) tool proposed herein will support NASA's advanced research into airport surface operations and decision support tools. Previous NASA efforts in the development of advanced decision support tools have benefited greatly from deep understanding of the ATC operation. Through data warehousing and data mining capabilities, the proposed SODAA tool will provide the infrastructure and information necessary for NASA researchers and other industry analysts to achieve this level of knowledge and understanding of the airport surface ATC operation. Additional tools will support the creation, validation and maintenance of SMS adaptation data.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Air carriers conduct analyses of airport surface operations in an attempt to reduce costly delays, but current information sources lack sufficient detail. A significant market exists for a commercial analysis product for air carriers. Mosaic ATM maintains close working relationships with numerous air carriers and is well positioned to obtain commercial funding to develop and implement tools to help optimize the daily air carrier operation. Note that FedEx and Northwest airlines already use SMS as an integral part of their daily operation for Memphis, and UPS will begin to use SMS as part of their operation for Louisville shortly.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
KALSCOTT ENGINEERING, INC.
3226 SW Timberlake Ln.
Topeka, KS 66614-4515
(785)856-3222

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Tom Sherwood
tom.sherwood@kalscott.com
3226 SW Timberlake Ln.
Topeka, KS 66614-4515
(785)979-1113

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The need for a small, lightweight, remotely-operable transponder for UAVs is identified. This would allow integration of UAVs into the national airspace while providing an equivalent level of safety during operations as manned aircraft. A network-centric, integrated transponder and altitude encoder is proposed to meet this need. Phase I includes device design and bench top testing of system components. Phase II includes design refinement, prototype fabrication, and comprehensive flight testing of the device in KalScott's UAV.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The transponder can be incorporated into NASA's Access5 effort to integrate UAVs into the national airspace safely. NASA currently flies several UAVs on earth science missions. This transponder can be applied to those vehicles. This transponder can be used on contractor-provided UAVs as well for NASA missions.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The transponder can be used for airspace integration of UAVs. Such vehicles are now increasingly used for homeland security, science, civilian, and homeland security missions.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Continuum Dynamics, Inc.
34 Lexington Avenue
Ewing, NJ 08618-2302
(609)538-0444

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Todd R. Quackenbush
todd@continuum-dynamics.com
34 Lexington Avenue
Ewing, NJ 08618-2302
(609)538-0444

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Continuum Dynamics, Inc. (CDI) has developed a Multiple Aircraft Simulation Tool (MAST) that revolutionizes the ability to predict and assess wake interactions associated with multiple aircraft operating in the vicinity of one another. This tool incorporates CDI's state-of-the-art free-vortex wake modeling methods and aircraft wake diffusion and dissipation models within established flight simulation technology. This new technology is ideally suited to support the U.S. air traffic management system in evaluating methods to safely improve operational efficiency. The proposed effort is to enhance and repackage this technology in a manner targeted directly toward modeling "series" and "parallel" fixed (and rotary) wing aircraft approach patterns. The large body of recent data obtained from field tests and advanced CFD will be utilized to provide a new level of accuracy and efficiency in the prediction of the influence of turbulence, wind shear, stratification and ground effect on vortex wake evolution and decay. The final tool will be unprecedented in its range of application, accuracy and ease of use in modeling the wake interactions of multiple fixed wing and rotary-wing aircraft operating in a terminal area environment and will be ideal for planning and evaluating NASA's multiple corridor and simultaneous non-interference operational concepts.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed analysis would extend NASA's ability to evaluate potential air traffic patterns from the viewpoint of wake hazard. The tool would assist greatly in design and evaluation of new operational concepts, reducing or eliminating the need for expensive flight tests while providing a means for assessing pilot workload. The tool will be particularly useful in evaluating potential multiple corridor air traffic patterns and simultaneous non-interfering operations made possible with the implementation of NASA's WakeVAS system. This has the potential to provide a significant increase in airport capacity which is one of NASA's most important strategic objectives.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed tool will be of great use to the FAA and U.S. airports as well as NASA, as new air traffic patterns and operation procedures are evaluated in terms of safety and increased capacity. Coupling of a real-time version of the analysis into the Air Traffic Management (ATM) system could lead to improved predictions and display of wake hazard conditions. The tool would also be useful to aircraft manufacturers in assessing the impact of aircraft design on wake hazard issues as well as to contractors designing upgraded wake safety crew advisory systems.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Metron Aviation, Inc.
131 Elden Street, Suite 200
Herndon, VA 20170-4758
(703)456-0123

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Laurel Stell
stell@metronaviation.com
131 Elden Street, Suite 200
Herndon, VA 20170-4758
(703)456-0123

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
There is a very large variation in the difference between scheduled and actual flight arrival and departure times, which results in a high degree of uncertainty in the airport demand. Consequently, there is a great need for tools that provide awareness of both the current and predicted future situation. The Surface Management System (SMS) developed by NASA Ames has partially addressed this need; but both its display and its modeling currently assume that the locations of aircraft on the airport surface will be provided by surface surveillance. In this SBIR, Metron Aviation will study the prediction of airport demand with varying levels of surface surveillance. The Phase 1 objective is to demonstrate the feasibility of predicting, with limited or no surface surveillance, flight OOOI times accurately enough to enable airport surface automation. In Phase 2, we will investigate decision support display designs appropriate for the lack of surveillance and evaluate them at Atlanta.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA could use the product of Phase 2 to adapt the Surface Management System (SMS) to airports that do not have surface surveillance. SMS currently requires accurate positions, matched to flight numbers, for aircraft near or on the airport surface. Without complete surface surveillance, SMS requires changes to both its model and displays, and this effort will provide solutions for this need. Furthermore, some developments from the proposed work may also increase the benefit of SMS even when there is surface surveillance data or when surface surveillance coverage is sporadic or missing in only part of the airport.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The FAA is investigating the deployment of a system with surface management functionality at the 30 top airports. Since not all these airports are on the ASDE-X waterfall, this system will require the model enhancements from this SBIR. Output from this system is expected to be available to airlines, so they would be interested in the decision support tools developed under this funding. ETMS could also use the output to replace its predicted takeoff times. For airports without this system, ETMS might incorporate the taxi time prediction algorithms to replace its estimates based on recent historical data.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Evigia Systems Inc.
2805 Windwood Dr. #10
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-1487
(734)302-1140

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Navid Yazdi
nyazdi@evigia.com
2805 Windwood Dr. #10
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-1487
(734)302-1140

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This Phase I SBIR effort initiates development of a high-sensitivity low-noise all-silicon CMOS-MEMS accelerometer for quasi-steady measurements of accelerations at sub 1 micro-g levels. The accelerometer module includes integrated low-noise CMOS circuitry with active offset and low-frequency noise cancellation to enable high-precision DC measurements. The high-performance of the sensor is enabled by innovation in both MEMS accelerometer and readout circuit technologies: i) Single-crystalline silicon capacitive accelerometer structure. The device has high sensitivity and low thermo-mechanical noise; ii) Innovative high-yield fabrication process that enables formation of high-sensitivity devices on top of CMOS wafers; iii) New and improved low-noise capacitive sensor readout CMOS circuit. This novel microaccelerometer has several NASA applications including measurement of residual accelerations on spacecraft and ground-based low-gravity facilities.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed CMOS-MEMS accelerometer will reduce the size, mass, power requirements and cost of the instruments for measuring the residual accelerations on spacecraft or in ground-based low-gravity facilities. By using innovative device and circuit technologies the proposed MEMS sensor can resolve sub micro-g quasi-static accelerations as solicited by GRC and MSFC under topic B1.01 (Exploiting Gravitational Effects for Combustion, Fluids, Synthesis, and Vibration Technology). Also this device can be employed for space platform stabilization, and miniature self-contained or GPS-augmented navigation systems for micro-satellites, spacecrafts, aircrafts, and ground vehicles.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
High precision accelerometers with micro-g sensitivity have several non-NASA applications including self-contained and GPS-augmented navigation and guidance systems, oil-exploration and earthquake prediction, tilt measurements, and underwater acoustic measurements. The impact of low cost, small, high-performance micromachined accelerometers in these applications is not just limited to reducing overall size, cost and weight. It opens up new market opportunities such as personal navigators for consumer applications, and it enhances the overall accuracy and performance of the systems by making formation of large arrays of devices feasible (i.e. large sensor arrays for oil and gas exploration).

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Vista Photonics, Inc.
67 Condesa Road
Santa Fe, NM 87508-8136
(505)466-3953

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jeffrey S Pilgrim
jpilgrim@vistaphotonics.com
67 Condesa Road
Santa Fe, NM 87508-8136
(505)466-3953

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The danger from fire aboard spacecraft is immediate with only moments for detection and suppression. Spacecraft are unique high-value systems where the cost of failure is measured in lives and dollars. Space crews have little or no chance to escape vessels on fire. It is imperative to detect the onset of combustion in microgravity at the earliest possible moment. Present fire detectors onboard spacecraft are inadequate due to sensitivity, time response, or both. Smoke detectors are insufficient for detecting the early stages of combustion, sensors are needed to detect the products of combustion directly. These sensors must meet stringent size, weight and power requirements. Vista Photonics proposes to develop rugged, compact fire detection instrumentation capable of selectively and simultaneously measuring the combustion species HCN, acetylene, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide at parts-per-million (ppm) or better sensitivities in a 1 Hz bandwidth. The enabling technology for meeting NASA's stringent mission requirements is a new rugged, compact, and lightweight optical path length enhancement cell that recovers the theoretical sensitivity of proven high-performance optical absorption detection techniques.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed technology, if successful, will find application in fire detection on high-value systems, especially spacecraft. Fire detection applications extend to aircraft and some buildings. The technology will be a general trace gas detection technique with applications in spacecraft habitability, air revitalization, waste processing, and plant production facilities during long-duration space flight.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The technology will find application in trace gas monitoring in chemical process streams. Human breath-based diagnostics of specific pathologies. Environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance in industrial settings.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Orbital Technologies Corp
Space Center, 1212 Fourier Drive
Madison, WI 53717-1961
(608)827-5000

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Marty A Gustafson
gustafsonm@orbitec.com
1212 Fourier Drive
Madison, WI 53717-1961
(608)827-5000

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA's new exploration initiative created immediate need for materials science and technology research to enable safe human travel and work on future lunar or Martian long-duration missions. To conduct this research, NASA must have lunar and Martian regolith simulant for materials experiments and prototype testing of transportation equipment, advanced life support systems, and in situ resource processing. This SBIR will conduct a feasibility study on a new generation of lunar and Martian simulants with improved composition and mineralogical analysis. For lunar regolith, Orbital Technologies Corporation (ORBITEC) proposes to recreate the JSC-1 material and study post-production processes to add additional percentages of glass particles to improve composition. A study to assess the feasibility of creating a lunar highlands-type simulant will also be conducted. For Martian regolith, ORBITEC will mine the raw material for the JSC Mars-1 simulant with an improved extraction process to avoid the contamination of the soil that resulted in the non-Martian magnetic component. Additional grain-size particles will also be prepared and combined with the material to improve its grain-size distribution comparison. These innovations combined with the well-documented and received original JSC-1 and Mars-1 source materials will produce simulants that will assist NASA on its future exploration quest.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Materials science and technology research is crucial for safe human travel and work on future lunar or Martian long-duration missions. NASA needs the development of techniques and processes for in-space fabrication of critical path components for the exploration of space. To conduct this research, NASA must have lunar and Martian regolith simulant for materials experiments and prototype testing of transportation equipment, advanced life support systems, and in situ resource processing. The demand for these simulants is increasing daily. ORBITEC has already compiled a list of interested NASA scientists and engineers who have requested samples as soon as it becomes available.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
One of the most impressive outcomes of the past lunar and Martian regolith simulant production was its tremendous appeal for education and outreach. Educational supply companies purchased the material for educator kits and teacher workshops, and companies have already expressed interest in new simulant for classroom plant growth kits as well. In addition to education, the success of the Spirit and Opportunity rovers combined with NASA's ambitious exploration plans have energized the country's interest in space. A market for space souvenirs and display items is developing. Simulants neatly packaged for display or children's toys could be launched immediately after production.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Applied Sciences Inc
141 W. Xenia Ave. PO Box 579
Cedarville, OH 45314-0579
(937)766-2020

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Michael Matuszewski
matuszewski@apsci.com
141 W. Xenia Ave. PO Box 579
Cedarville, OH 45314-0579
(937)766-2020

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Improvements in radiation shielding materials are needed to support NASA's human and robotic exploration programs. Shielding for both electromagnetic radiation (gamma and x-rays) and particles (protons and neutrons) are critical. Ideally, the shielding should be part of a multifunctional, structural composite material to maximize mission payload. To meet this need, ASI will develop structural composites enhanced by novel carbon nanofiber (CNF) materials. One version is CNF whose hollow cores are filled with heavy elements for electromagnetic by a novel intercalation technique. Another is hydrogenated CNF for particle shielding. The enhanced CNF will then be included in the resin of a standard carbon fiber reinforced structural composites where they will add radiation blocking functionality and enhance strength properties. In addition, the intercalated nanofibers will be compounded into polyethylene, a known proton absorber, to create a shielding material that simultaneously blocks all relevant forms of radiation. Materials will be tested for gamma, x-ray, and proton shielding, as well as multifunctional structural and electrical properties.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed technology would have application as multifunctional shielding-structural components in a variety of NASA missions requiring radiation hardening for electronics or radiation protection for humans. The Phase I team has an existing relationship with Northrop Grumman who has expressed an interest in this technology and possible in-house research efforts. During the course of the Phase I effort, the Phase I team will solidify a working relationship with Northrop Grumman, and work to define a specific NASA platform or program in which to demonstrate the new technology.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Applications in the commercial aerospace sector are comparable to those for NASA, though with a greater focus on radiation hardening for electronics.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
ZYVEX CORPORATION
1321 N. Plano Road
Richardson, TX 75081-2426
(972)235-7881

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Jian Chen
jchen@zyvex.com
1321 North Plano Road
Richardson, TX 75081-2426
(972)235-7881

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Polyethylene (PE), due to its high hydrogen content relative to its weight, has been identified by NASA as a promising radiation shielding material against galactic cosmic rays and solar energetic particles. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), due to their small diameter, high-mechanical strength, and high-electrical and thermal conductivity, are recognized as the ultimate carbon fibers for high performance, multifunctional composites. Prior studies failed to produce the CNT/polymer composites that fully exploit nanotubes' outstanding mechanical, electrical and thermal properties because of poor dispersion of nanotubes in polymer matrices and poor adhesion between nanotubes and the polymer matrix,. Zyvex has developed a versatile and non-damaging chemical platform that allows us to engineer specific nanotube surface properties to permit homogeneous dispersion of nanotubes in various solvents and polymer matrices, and enables the significantly enhanced adhesion between nanotubes and the polymer matrix. The major innovation of our technical approach is to marry these two outstanding materials using Zyvex's chemical platform technology to produce a novel CNT/PE complex composite that not only has high radiation shielding performance, but also has high mechanical strength, high electrical conductivity, and improved thermal stability. Multifunctional CNT/PE complex composite will find broad applications in shielding humans in spacecrafts and habitats.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
?Lightweight, multifunctional structural components for aerospace transportation vehicles that will enable increased radiation shielding, increased strength and longevity, improved energy efficiency, and improved vehicle payload mass to lift-off mass ratios.
?Multifunctional structural components for the space structures (examples include space stations, orbiters, landers, rovers, habitats, etc.) that combine strength and radiation shielding.
?Components for liquid hydrogen tank.
?Components and coatings for deep space power systems, and in-space manufacturing and repairing.
?Advanced materials for fabrics and coatings used in space suits and other space applications.
?Coatings and bonding agents for high-value components and equipment (examples include EMI shielding materials, ESD protection, ultra-strong adhesives, and conductive coatings for aerospace systems and components).
?Composites for satellite armor.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
?Space and aerospace crafts and habitats for commercial space travel.
?Components for particle accelerators and nuclear reactors.
?Radioactive chemical, biological and nuclear waste containment vessels.
?Advanced materials for medical applications such as fabrication of prostheses and splints.
?Structural components for high-value civilian transportation applications (for example, more extensive use of composites for airframes, helicopter rotors, and skins).
?Lightweight, multifunctional materials for soldier uniforms, armor, and helmets.
?Professional sports and leisure equipment such as golf clubs, fishing rods, and tennis equipment.
?Advanced flywheels capable of significantly higher rotational speeds
?Materials for competitive yachting and car racing

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
RWBruce Associates Inc.
1594 Chickasaw Rd.
Arnold, MD 21012-2526
(443)822-3605

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Ralph W. Bruce
rwbruce@ieee.org
1594 Chickasaw Rd.
Arnold, MD 21012-2526
(443)822-3605

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
For a space-based fabrication effort to be effective, the weight, power requirements and footprint must be minimized. Because of the unique beam forming properties at the millimeter-wave frequency of 83 GHz, a compact and efficient materials heating system can be devised that can satisfy this need. To date, microwave and millimeter-wave based systems for materials processing have been developed only for terrestrially based manufacturing operations. The purpose of this SBIR proposal is to begin the development and to perform proof-of-concept tasks to demonstrate the feasibility of the microwave approach to space-based materials processing. Current conventional heating technology requires the heating of the complete volume of the furnace in order to achieve the temperatures necessary to perform a fabrication activity. This is typically a slow and energy intensive process. At 83 GHz, technology is available that can focus a multi-kilowatt beam into an area of 4 cm2 or smaller. Based upon the absorptive capability of the material, this may result in a temperature rise of several hundred degC/min which is confined to the immediate area of beam impingement. The result is one of putting the energy where it is needed to perform the task (e.g., ceramic joining, glass melting) more effectively.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA's need to construct radiation shielding, pressure vessels, storage containers, habitat structures, roadways, pathways and work surfaces, on the Moon or Mars, relies on In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU). NASA thus requires efficient technologies that will allow for in-space fabrication of needed structural and functional materials such as ceramics and ceramic composites. Millimeter-wave processing technology is an enabling one that should help reduce significantly the space requirements (i.e., footprint) needed to set-up a high-temperature materials processing facility.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The joining of high-purity ceramic materials is a continuing challenge. A recent project focused on the joining of precision ceramics to be used in an advanced accelerator design for the Department of Energy. This project demonstrated that millimeter-wave processing is advantageous to this type of application. Although this is a niche, it is indicative of its commercial potential. Also, the ability to join advanced ceramics in specific well-defined areas without significantly heating the surrounding material will find widespread use. Additionally, the ability to join at high temperatures while using low-temperature fixturing is a significant advancement of ceramic joining technology.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
CFD Research Corp
215 Wynn Dr.
Huntsville, AL 35805-1926
(256)726-4800

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
S. Krishnamoorthy
jls@cfdrc.com
215 Wynn Dr.
Huntsville, AL 35805-1926
(256)726-4858

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA's vision for Space Exploration aims for human interplanetary missions that have significant challenges on crew health and safety including fluid shifts, and post-flight orthostatic intolerance. A predictive software tool that advances the understanding of underlying biofluid dynamics is critical to affordably analyzing and designing protective systems and countermeasures. CFDRC proposes to develop such software that will enable new insights and techniques to significantly increase the knowledge base through simulations and dramatically increase the leverage of limited in-flight cardiovascular investigations. In Phase I, we seek to develop an innovative network-based System Physiology Software tool, leveraging an ongoing NASA funded lab-on-a-chip system design effort. In the proof-of-concept study, a physiologically relevant component network representing elements of the human circulatory system will be assembled in a user-friendly GUI environment. This network, interfaced with high-fidelity multiphysics software (CFD-ACE+) will be solved for detailed analysis of local hemodynamic stresses on vascular endothelial cell structure, and compute microgravity effects on fluid shift. In Phase II, component models will be refined with detailed representation for arterial, venous and lymphatic effects, along with incorporation of metabolite transport and baroreflex models. Interface to systems biology models (cellular regulatory networks) will also be developed. CFDRC is the technology leader in multiscale biological simulations and very well placed to successfully undertake this challenging task of delivering System Physiology Software to NASA.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed software will allow NASA decision makers to implement knowledge-based (as opposed to ad-hoc or empirical) practices and deploy preventive/protective measures against adverse health effects due to space environment on system physiology. The software will provide detailed understand of several problems including fluid shift, post-flight orthostatic intolerance, muscle atrophy, hematology, etc. Interfacing the software with high-fidelity or systems biology software will enable (Digital Astronaut) studies to understand gravity-mediated tissue stresses, effect of mechanical stresses on various cellular processes, which lead to a better understating of the impact of low-gravity conditions on human health.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Computational modeling of hemodynamics in cardiovascular systems is a useful means for predictive medicine, which may be implemented in a form of Computation-Aided Diagnosis (CAD) and/or Computation-Aided Surgery (CAS). Home, clinical and pharmaco diagnostic systems (combined multi-billion dollar market) are increasingly being used to assist in the diagnosis, disease management and drug discovery. A software platform that can interpret the raw sensor data in order to accurately assess the patient's current health status will be of significant benefit to public health. In addition, the software will also provide a multiscale simulation environment for the design and optimization of several biomedical devices.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Southwest Sciences Inc
1570 Pacheco St Suite E-11
Santa Fe, NM 87505-3993
(505)984-1322

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Kristen Peterson
peterson@swsciences.com
1570 Pacheco St Suite E-11
Santa Fe, NM 87505-3993
(505)984-1322

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Southwest Sciences proposes to develop innovative instrumentation for the rapid, 3-dimensional imaging of biological tissues with cellular resolution. Our approach is a variant of optical coherence tomography that will use a very small, low power and compact white light source to provide 2 micrometer or better image resolution. This device will enable NASA researchers to non-invasively study the structure of living, functioning tissues and cells. The instrumentation is based on a compact, low cost, low power white light source and can be designed for operation in spaced-based laboratories.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Applications of interest to NASA are studies of cells and tissues of animals and plants grown in micro-gravity, studies of cells exposed to space stresses such as micro-gravity and radiation and studies of cell functioning in response to environmental or physiological stresses. In addition, this technology can be applied to micro-gravity developmental biology studies, such as inner ear development in xenopus tadpoles or zebra fish model organisms.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
A rapid, high resolution 3-dimensional optical imaging method will have important commercial applications in clinical and biomedical research including detection of cancerous and precancerous tissues, imaging of venous and arterial structures, optical biopsy and microsurgery guidance. This technology can be incorporated into endoscopes, catheters and similar devices for in vivo applications.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Los Gatos Research
67 East Evelyn Avenue, Suite 3
Mountain View, CA 94041-1518
(650)965-7772

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
An-Dien Nguyen
a.d.nguyen@lgrinc.com
67 East Evelyn Avenue, Suite 3
Mountain View, CA 94041-1518
(650)965-3459

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Los Gatos Research (LGR) proposes to develop a low-cost, compact, lightweight, rugged and easy-to-use environmental monitoring optical fiber sensor device based on the principle of cavity-enhanced absorption technique. This novel instrument will record concentration measurements of multiple gases including CO and CO2 with ultrahigh sensitivity, stability, and accuracy in real time with low power consumption and without external calibration. By increasing the measurement sensitivity of CO and CO2, the proposed device will allow reliable, gravity-independent monitoring of ecological stability in environments at arbitrary gravity range. In Phase I, LGR will develop and test the prototype fiber-optic-based ICOS device and algorithm that can simultaneously measure CO and CO2 with state of the art accuracy, specificity, repeatability, and sensitivity. The compact sensor device will measure both CO and CO2 concentrations in air with an uncertainty of less than 1 part in 1000 in less than 30 seconds, and require no calibration or reference gas. In Phase II LGR will construct a field deployable device optimized for this application. We will demonstrate the unit's inherent stability, ruggedness and performance in the field at a facility to be specified.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Optical fiber sensor technology offers significant advantages for advanced aerospace platforms because they are low cost, lightweight, compact, environmently rugged, insensitive to harsh environment, and consumes low power. Combined with a cavity enhanced absorption technique, the fiber sensor offers ultrahigh sensitivity for chemical detection applications such as environmental monitoring in air, liquid, or solids systems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed fiber-based ICOS sensors may be applied to a wide range of chemical, biochemical, biological, and environmental monitoring applications such as industrial real-time monitoring, medical diagnostics, industrial process control, and atmospheric research.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
NOVAWAVE TECHNOLOGIES
230A Twin Dolphin Drive
Redwood City, CA 94065-1411
(650)610-0956

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Joshua Paul
jbpaul@novawavetech.com
230A Twin Dolphin Drive
Redwood City, CA 94065-1411
(650)610-0956

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This Small Business Innovative Research Phase I proposal seeks to develop a low cost, robust, highly precise and accurate CO2 monitoring system. This system will employ a novel mid-infrared laser source, which will be demonstrated during Phase I and integrated into a bench-scale laboratory instrument to perform CO2 concentration measurements. The results of these tests will demonstrate the precision and accuracy of the approach, and will be used to determine specifications for the Phase II instrument. The Phase I research will identify COTS sources for the system subcomponents of the Phase II prototype, which can potentially modified for the detection of other target species such as CO2 isotopes, methane, and CO. Commercial systems based on the Phase II prototype will be refined and marketed during Phase III.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA's Fundamental Biology Program seeks to improve our understanding of gravitational effects on plants and animals. The success of this proposal will directly impact this effort by providing compact fieldable CO2 analyzers with the requisite precision and accuracy to aid this effort. Additionally, NASA's Earth Science Enterprise has taken a lead role in understanding Earth's atmospheric dynamics. In particular, to better understand climate change and global warming, a more detailed knowledge of carbon exchange between terrestrial ecosystems and the atmosphere is required. The success of this effort will directly impact this area as well.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The worldwide market for low cost, high precision CO2 monitors is quite large due to the need to monitor greenhouse gas emissions and enforce world-wide emissions standards. Other commercial arenas for the technology include trace gas monitoring, pollution monitoring, and industrial process monitoring.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Nanotrope, Inc.
2033 Cambridge Ave
Cardiff, CA 92007-1707
(760)942-0301

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Donald Ackley
donackley@cox.net
2033 Cambridge Ave
Cardiff, CA 92007-1707
(949)697-7195

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The objective of this proposal is to provide a demonstration of a nanodroplet synthesis of multifunctional liposomes for drug delivery based on immiscible microfluidics processing. In this initial study, the functionality of the liposomes will include (1) the surface functionalized particles for targeting specific cells and (2) the protected packaging of protein therapeutics that may be released upon specific binding of the liposome to a targeted cell. This goal will be accomplished using nanodroplet technology that exploits the properties of immiscible fluids to transform continuous fluid streams into highly monodispersed, isolated droplets with tight control of droplet size and generation rate. The nanoparticles are formed at room temperature with low pressure and shear forces to prevent the denaturation of protein drugs, which will be important for the treatment of major diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Since cells rapidly uptake nanoparticles with sizes less than 500 nm, the major objective for this proposal is demonstrate highly monodisperse particles in this regime. Furthermore, we anticipate that producing such particles in a microgravity environment will lead to an improved fundamental understanding of droplet formation itself and to the production of homogeneously distributed therapeutics in a perfectly spherical nano-particle.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Potential NASA applications for the nanodroplet technology are for space medicine. The need for highly effective therapeutics and neutriceuticals are important for astronaut health, especially on long duration missions. Such a technology would provide an individualized approach to space medicine that is tailored to each crew member. The prospects of a technology that is capable of programmable drug dosage 'on-the-fly' that may be readily integrated into a drug delivery platform would be an attractive approach for preventative and high performance measures. The nanodroplet technology may be utilized for treating illnesses, traumatic events and psychological disorders on long term missions.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The Nanotrope targeted drug particles have the potential to successfully target drugs to specific cells in the human body with a high success rate. The technology provides a compact device that is capable of titrating particle compositions on demand, which can allow specific protocols for individual patients to be used, according to the response to initial treatment. In addition, the drug particles are delivered using inexpensive microfluidic devices that are readily adapted to conventional devices such as syringes or inhalers. Thus, we anticipate the facilitated integration of our on-demand, monodisperse drug formulation technology with a reduced time to market.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc.
1046 New Holland Avenue
Lancaster, PA 17601-5688
(717)295-6061

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
David Sarraf
dave.sarraf@1-ACT.com
1046 New Holland Ave.
Lancaster, PA 17601-5668
(717)295-6059

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Current manned spacecraft heat rejection systems use two heat exchangers and an intermediate fluid loop to provide isolation between the crew compartment air and the exterior fluid loop. Isolation is required because the fluids used are either toxic or can cause suffocation. The extra hardware doubles the mass of the system, consumes more power, and reduces reliability. Advanced Cooling Technologies, Inc., supported by Hamilton Sundstrand, proposes to use a heat pipe heat exchanger to provide two levels of isolation between the two fluid streams. This will allow the safe use of the otherwise toxic or harmful exterior fluids with no danger to the crew and will avoid the mass and power penalty of the existing approach. This approach is also potentially lower mass than an incremental improvement to the existing exchanger. The Phase I work will include conceptual design of a liquid/liquid and liquid/air replacement for the existing exchangers and a liquid/air exchanger that replaces both system exchangers. A system-level trade study will be conducted to assess the impact of the new exchanger designs on power and volume consumption and on thermal performance. Representative exchanger segments will be fabricated and tested to demonstrate readiness of the technology.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Potential NASA applications involve life support system for manned spacecraft. If successful, the program will allow the use of heat rejection systems using thermally-favorable fluids such as ammonia or Freon while avoiding the risk of contaminating the crew compartment with those fluids. This will reduce the mass, volume, and power consumption of the cooling system

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Non-NASA Commercial applications of the technology include bleed air coolers and oil coolers for Navy vessels, heat exchangers for ammonia refrigeration plants, and heat exchangers for food and pharmaceutical processing. The Navy expects to need between 10 and 50 bleed air coolers and at least 200 oil coolers per year. They require absolute isolation between the seawater coolant and the fluid stream being cooled to assure availability of the systems and to prevent catastrophic damage to other equipment.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Umpqua Research Company
P.O. Box 609
Myrtle Creek, OR 97457-0102
(541)863-7770

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
James E. Atwater
jatwater@urcmail.net
PO Box 609
Myrtle Creek, OR 97457-0102
(541)863-2652

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Development of a microgravity and hypogravity compatible catalytic methane pyrolysis reactor is proposed to recover hydrogen which is lost as methane in the conversion of carbon dioxide to water via the Sabatier process. This will close the hydrogen loop which currently requires 50% resupply and also produce carbon nanotubes, a high value product which may be employed as an adsorbent or catalyst for removal of atmospheric trace contaminants, thus further lowering the resupply burden for manned spacecraft. Microgravity compatibility of Gradient Magnetically Assisted Fluidized Beds (GMAFB) has been demonstrated through a series of KC135 flight experiments. Metallic cobalt, which has been fluidized in microgravity using the GMAFB method, is an excellent catalyst for promotion of methane pyrolysis. Recently, fluidized bed catalytic methods have been shown to efficiently recover hydrogen, and produce single walled carbon nanotubes. Using the GMAFB method, this process can be rendered totally compatible with operation in the microgravity of spaceflight or the reduced gravity of planetary environments. By recovering all of the hydrogen which is lost as methane in the Sabatier reactor, the requirement for production or resupply of hydrogen is reduced to the absolute minimum.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The NASA application will be as Flight Hardware for deployment in support of future long duration exploration objectives such as a lunar base, Mars transit or Mars base. The primary application will be for the recovery of hydrogen lost in the Sabatier process for CO2 reduction to produce water in Advanced Life Support systems. Secondarily, this process may also be used in conjunction with a Sabatier reactor employed for propellant and fuel production from Martian atmospheric CO2. This process will also produce carbon nanotubes which may be employed for adsorption or catalytic destruction of toxic airborne or waterborne contaminants.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Production of carbon nanotubes is an area with extremely high economic potential. Numerous potential applications for these materials, include: nanometer sized semiconductor components and devices, field emission displays, hydrogen storage, sensors, energy storage and energy conversion devices, catalysts, and conductive and high strength composites. Carbon nanotubes, are extremely valuable products for which there are currently no efficient methods of high volume production, particularly for the production of single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNT). A secondary commercial application of the innovation will be as a means for the production of hydrogen with extremely low CO contamination for use in fuel cells.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
T3 Scientific LLC
1839 Noble Road
Arden Hills, MN 55112-7834
(651)353-7429

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Chung-Yi (Andy) Tsai
Andy.Tsai@t3scientific.com
1839 Noble Road
Arden Hills, MN 55112-7834
(651)353-7429

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Space life-supporting systems require effective removal of metabolic CO2 from the cabin atmosphere with minimal loss of O2. Conventional techniques, using either metal hydroxide or metal oxide sobent, require after-mission regeneration or replacement, thus putting a critical cap on mission duration. More recent techniques, such as pressure swing adsorption-based process also require regeneration and use expendable resources. A novel approach to the problem is the use of a membrane device that can effectively separate CO2 in the presence of moisture, using space vacuum as the driving force. Such a membrane device has minimal mass, volume and power penalty and does not require regeneration; therefore, long-duration space exploration can be realized. In Phase I, we will develop a novel nanocomposite membrane with a microporous aminosilicate structure for enhanced CO2 separation with simultaneous humidity control. CO2 preferentially adsorbs onto the pore surfaces of the aminosilicate membrane and transports via surface diffusion, thus resulting in pore blockage or pore size reduction to prevent other inert gases such as O2 and N2 from permeating through. With the combination of molecular sieving and surface diffusion mechanisms, the proposed membrane can be expected to achieve superb CO2 separation performance for effective spacecraft cabin air revitalization.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Potential NASA applications for the proposed novel membrane include environmental CO2 partial pressure control for spacecraft, space station, and spacesuit applications. This proposed novel composite membrane could be an enabling technology for NASA manned space program, allowing potential extended mission duration with less consumables compared to the baseline technologies.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Potential non-NASA applications for the proposed novel membrane include enhanced oil recovery, separation of CO2 from natural gas streams, CO2 recovery from fermentation processes, building CO2-level active control, and fruit and vegetable preservation.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Compact Membrane Systems Inc
325 Water Street
Wilmington, DE 19804-2410
(302)999-7996

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Kenneth J Pennisi
ken.pennisi@compactmembrane.com
325 Water Street
Wilmington, DE 19804-2410
(302)999-7996

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Current Technology for CO2 removal from enclosed air of spacecraft utilizes LiOH canisters for CO2 absorption. This absorption is irreversible so longer flights require more LiOH. For long duration flights it is essential that a small, lightweight system that recovers the CO2 be developed. This allows the CO2 to be used to regenerate O2 for re-use.

Compact Membrane systems (CMS) has identified a novel membrane contactor process for absorption and subsequent desorption of the CO2. Key to the process is that the contactor both operate effectively and that loss of the absorption/desorption fluid be kept to a minimum.

In Phase I, CMS will build system and demonstrate systems capability with a focus on key desorption unit operation. Analysis will demonstrate ability to transport CO2 while maintaining minimal loss of absorbent. System stability will be demonstrated by evaluating performance over wide temperature range (30-90o C). Chemical stability with absorbants will also be demonstrated. With all the above basic data in hand, we will evaluate the needed system size, weight and power consumption. Lastly we will compare results to molecular sieve adsorbants which are the incumbent for long duration flights.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
As humans increase their presence in space, the problem of CO2 removal will become more difficult. The long duration missions of the future will be technologically more demanding than the relatively short duration missions of the past and the current missions in earth orbit. There will be a greater need to reduce mission mass, reduce power usage and recover oxygen. The technology offered in this proposal addresses these critical issues.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This is a cornerstone technology with numerous potential commercial opportunities. This includes (a) capturing CO2 for CO2 sequestering, (b) acid gas removal from natural gas, and (c) CO2 removal from submarines. There is a major CO2 sequestering initiative associated with global warming and low cost way to recover CO2 is essential. A parallel major initiative is developing greater supplies of natural gas. Removal of CO2 and other acid gasses will significantly enhance this objective. Submarines have similar CO2 removal needs and would therefore benefit from this technology.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
PHYSICAL OPTICS CORPORATION
20600 Gramercy Place, Building 100
Torrance, CA 90501-1821
(310)320-3088

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Tin M. Aye
sutama@poc.com
20600 Gramercy Place, Building 100
Torrance, CA 90501-1821
(310)320-3088

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
In response to the NASA need for a free-standing immersive virtual scene display system interfaced with an exercise treadmill to mimic terrestrial exercise experience in space, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Earth Virtual-environment Immersive Scene (EVIS) display system based on omnidirectional image projection and a wraparound multiplexed holographic collimating projection screen. A single unique, high-resolution omnidirectional wraparound image projector projects continuous wraparound imagery onto thin, curved, three-color-(RGB)-multiplexed holographic optics, which collimate the projected light into a virtual image. EVIS will thus display a greater than 180 degree (up to full 360 degree) free-standing FOV of flowing virtual earth scene to a crew member on a treadmill. Without multiple projectors, bulky optics, or a tiled screen, EVIS will be compact, lightweight, and power-efficient. It is producible at low cost by integrating commercially available microdisplays for the omnidirectional projector and by mass producing the multiplexed holographic collimating screen by means of established POC technologies. In Phase I POC will design in detail an EVIS display system for a treadmill, and fabricate a proof-of-concept model to demonstrate feasibility. Phase II will focus on optimizing both the material technology and components so that a fully operational prototype is completed.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed EVIS display system will benefit the psychological and physiological well-being of NASA space crews on ultralong-duration missions to the Moon or Mars. It can also benefit real-time telepresence, remote space exploration, and EVA applications, space flight training, flight navigation, and spacecraft and space station design.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The EVIS display system with a personal exercise machine will create a more inviting and pleasant environment (e.g., jogging in New York's Central Park or along a California beach) than the home or gym. It can also be used for simulation and training for government and civilian personnel programs such as commercial airplane flight simulation. Additional applications include remote-controlled robot telepresence for bomb and mine disposal, inspection and surveillance, and scientific and medical imaging.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
GENEXPRESS INFORMATICS INC.
13091 Ponds Springs Road, Suite 150
Austin, TX 78729-6442
(512)219-8588

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Robert Chin
rchin@genexpressinfo.com
13091 Ponds Springs Road, Suite 150
Austin, TX 78729-6442
(512)219-8588

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Technology is needed to provide real-time assessment and evaluation of hematological parameters during prolong space flights and planetary missions. A key hematological parameter is the monitoring and measurement of emboli in the brain especially during Extra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) on planetary surfaces as well as orbital flights. A non-invasive, compact Transcranial Doppler (TCD) measurement device will provide monitoring of flight crew blood physiology during extended duration missions and deliver this data to onboard flight surgeons.

To address this need, GeneXpress Informatics (GXI) and Leonid Bunegin and Dr. Claudia S. Miller of the University of Texas Health Science Center (UTHSC) at San Antonio proposes to develop a non-invasive, portable TCD sonogram based diagnostic system for real-time monitoring and detection of cerebral artery air embolisms. The detection system uses intensity audio signals and Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis to detect and locate the TCD audio signals of air bubbles in the middle cerebral artery (MCA).

In Phase I, GXI proposes to develop and demonstrate the non-invasive use TCD measurements for the determination of air emboli. In Phase II, GXI will proceed to a prototype development which will include construction and fabrication of a handheld field portable frequency-domain TCD measurement system.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Technology is needed to provide real-time assessment and evaluation of hematological parameters during prolong space flights and planetary missions. A key hematological parameter is the monitoring and measurement of emboli in the brain especially during Extra-Vehicular Activity (EVA) on planetary surfaces as well as orbital flights.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Total mortality rates in severe trauma occurrences show that 90 percent die within the first hour. Whether in war time situations or automotive accidents, there is a need for technologies which can provide more expertise in the forward area at the site of the incident. This non-invasive TCD technology developed in this program will provide an aid to paramedics in evaluating a trauma patient on site and in real-time.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Triple "F", inc.
10104 Douglas Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50322-3600
(515)254-1200

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Wilmot Wijeratne
wilmot@insta-pro.com
10104 Douglas Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50322-3600
(515)254-1267

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Insta-Pro International, proposes the design and development of a versatile, compact, lightweight, energy efficient, and easy maintained seed processing equipment that can be operated in low gravity environments. The proposed equipment, a scale down refinement based on successful current large scale Insta-Pro processing systems, can be used for cooking, shaping, texturizating, dehydration, phase separation, and stabilization of crops such as rice, beans, peanuts and soybeans to support human planetary explorations. The equipment will be designed to use internally generated heat for processing food to reduce or eliminate the need for inherently inefficient heating from an external source. In addition, the equipment will be optimized to minimize the Equivalent System Mass (ESM) while maximizing the quality of the final product. Anticipated results for Phase I will be detailed plans for the design of the optimized food processing equipment attained by computational simulation of various concept designs . This optimum design will provide the basis for hardware development and testing in Phase II and the manufacture and marketing (in Phase III) to a wide array of users.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)

The primary NASA application will be for cooking, forming and shelf life extension of food crops in long duration space missions such as Lunar or Martian mission. Additional applications include liquid extraction in a low gravity environment to produce vegetable oil from peanuts or soybeans as well as potential use for dehydration and volume reduction of wet solid foods, and heat treatment for microbial or enzyme inactivation to reduce biological hazards associated with wastes.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Potential non-NASA commercial markets for the proposed multipurpose food processor include: federal agencies such as the Department of Defense food services; private sector markets such as commercial airline, rail, and maritime food preparation systems and the fast food industry, as well as institutions of higher education such as food engineering research and educational programs. Customized versions of the proposed processor has the potential to be commercialized as low capacity equipment to process seed materials available only in small quantities for organizations involved in biotechnological innovations, for small agribusiness in developing countries and for home use.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Chi's Research Corporation
5354 Beachside Drive
Minnetonka, MN 55343-4117
(952)945-0230

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Uchenna Chukwu
doctoru@usfamily.net
5354 Beachside Drive
Minnetonka, MN 55343-4117
(952)945-0230

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Advanced life-support systems, which use chemical, physical, and biological processes, are being developed to support future long-term human planetary exploration. As a result, there is a need to develop innovative food processes for baseline crops, such as dry beans (legumes) that have a shelf-life of more than one year and can support human life during extended space travel. Legumes are hydrated in large volumes of water to about 50% moisture to help reduce process times. Hydration is lengthy often requiring more than 8 hours using room temperature water, or boiling water for 2-3 minutes followed by soaking for at least one hour. Additionally, long cooking times ranging from about 30 minutes to over 2 hours are also required. We propose a reduction in the time, energy, and water requirements for processing legumes by using a novel combination of food grade carbohydrases to enhance the processing characteristics of legumes (Pinto, Navy and Kidney beans) prior to implementation of conventional (boiling, cooking, canning or microwaving) techniques.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Long-duration, shelf-stable food: Food-grade enzymes can be used to develop highly acceptable, shelf-stable food items derived from other plant-based food sources.
Food Processing: Food-grade enzymes can be applied to baseline crops, such as beans, wheat, soybeans, rice, and other grains to reduce the time, water, and energy requirements during processing.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Market and commercialize the high-fiber, gas-free beans as functional foods to consumers and bean processors.

Develop a food processing aid, tentatively termed "Vegizyme" containing the proprietary blend of enzymes.

License and/or sell Vegizyme to consumers engaged in home preparation of beans.

License the technology to bean processors and other food manufacturers.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Microcide, Inc.
2209 Niagara Drive
Troy, MI 48083-5933
(248)526-9663

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
John Lopes
lopes@microcideinc.com
2209 Niagara Drive
Troy, MI 48083-5933
(248)526-9663

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Microcide proposes to develop novel multipurpose non-toxic sanitizing wipes that are aqueous based, have shelf life of 3-5 years, have broad spectrum microbicidal activity, detergency for cleaning and chelating properties to bind toxic metal ions. The proposed wipes can eliminate undesirable characteristics of presently used commercial sanitizing wipes by NASA. The commercial sanitizing wipes use ethyl and isopropyl alcohols, hydrogen peroxide, quaternary ammonium compounds (Qacs), bezyl-4-chlorophenol and phenylphenol as active microbicidal agents.

The proposed sanitizing wipes will use FDA approved food additive non-corrosive ingredients. By raising the pH, the microbicidal activity of the wipes can be terminated, which can help biodegradation and recycling the wipes. The wipes will also use recyclable cellulose carrier fabric. With food additive ingredients, these wipes will be safe for use on environmental and food contact surfaces, on fruits and vegetables as well as on skin, hands and outer body parts. The wipes will be free from any undesirable organoleptic properties. The wipes will have efficacy against a broad spectrum of environmental, pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms and also against both antibiotic sensitive and resistant bacteria. These wipes will be suitable for prolonged space missions for use on the shuttle, the ISS and the Planetary Outposts.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed Microcide wipes are novel multipurpose non-toxic sanitizing wipes that can prevent food contamination, improve hygienic conditions and indirectly save healthcare expenditure. The proposed wipes can serve not only the needs of prolonged space missions but also of all other commercial NASA activities. These sanitizing wipes will have broad-spectrum microbicidal activity against environmental, pathogenic and spoilage bacteria. These biodegradable and recyclable wipes can be used on environmental and food contact surfaces, on fruits and vegetables as well as on skin, hands and outer body parts.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
In addition to their use in space, the nontoxic multipurpose sanitizing wipes proposed by Microcide will have wide-ranging commercial applications. Because of potential application on environmental and food contact surfaces, on fruits and vegetables as well as on skin, hands and outer body parts, the sanitizing wipes will be an everyday use item for general population. The numerous places the wipes can be used are homes, restaurants, offices, healthcare institutions, nursing homes, day care centers, food processing plants, school systems, travel industry, military and other consumers locations.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
ZIN TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
3000 AEROSPACE PARKWAY
BROOK PARK, OH 44142-1001
(216)977-0300

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Robbie A. Bruewer
robbie.bruewer@zin-tech.com
3000 AEROSPACE PARKWAY
BROOK PARK, OH 44142-1001
(216)977-0611

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
ZIN Technologies in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic Foundation will use their combined experience and research and development expertise to develop a new compact ambulatory biometric data system for space and commercial terrestrial use. This design will improve on the existing design onboard the International Space Station and other available systems by increasing the system resolution from 12 to 24 bits, reducing the weight by 40%, decreasing the overall volume by 70%, increasing usability, extending the dynamic range of biological signals that can be recorded, increasing on-board memory capacity, and providing additional instantaneous feedback to users through an extended local processing capability. Data will be acquired through a cell phone sized unit possibly attached to a subjects belt loop. Data is transmitted wirelessly to a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) where it can be accessed and viewed by the subject. Data will also be wirelessly transmitted to a processing unit for real-time transmission to ground. When out of range of the processing unit, data will be stored onboard the monitoring device for later transmission. The design will allow for real time data streaming to ground stations and easy accessible viewing of metrics by astronauts on-orbit (or medical subjects terrestrially).

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Numerous NASA applications exist. Of course the most obvious application is support of health monitoring on human space flight and exploration missions. Additionally, numerous opportunities exist in support of ground based investigations that may or may not be directly related to human space flight. This includes baseline monitoring of astronauts health, health monitoring during strenuous training procedures, on-ground evaluation of physical training techniques and muscle/bone loss countermeasures.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The availability of an economical, user-friendly device such as the one proposed here could open new directions for the study of many biological processes and offer clinicians the opportunity to monitor aspects of their patients' health that are not currently accessible. Among the applications contemplated are: feature detection and alert generation for electrocardiograms; long duration analysis of electromyograms; home-based sleep disorder analysis via EEG; seizure detection and alert generation via EEG; analysis of limb loading and joint motion after joint replacement surgery; Analysis of respiration data; physiological monitoring such as continuous blood glucose recording.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Luna Innovations Incorporated
2851 Commerce Street
Blacksburg, VA 24060-6657
(540)552-5128

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
John E Lynch
keena@lunainnovations.com
130 Research Drive Suite 300
Hampton, VA 23666-1339
(757)224-0687

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Luna Innovations, Inc., in collaboration with the SUNY Stony Brook, proposes to extend ultrasonic pulsed phase locked loop (PPLL) derivative measurements to the noninvasive assessment of bone strain during exercise. The PPLL is a high-resolution ultrasonic spectrometer that measures changes in natural velocity with parts in ten million accuracy. With this resolution, the PPLL can be used to measure a material's nonlinear elastic constants, which are related to changes in the speed of sound as it is loaded. Nonlinear elastic constants are more closely linked to bone strength than traditional absolute measurements of the speed of sound, thus providing an important new capability for bone health assessment.

This technology has been demonstrated on a number of engineered materials, including fasteners, heat-treated aluminum, heat-treated steel, composite materials, railroad rails, and adhesive bonds. In Phase ILuna's PPLL technology will be tested on bone ex vivo at Stony Brook's Biomedical Engineering Department to develop a strong physics-based model of how natural velocity changes as a bone sample is loaded. This research will lay the groundwork for Phase II, in which Luna's PPLL technology will be combined with Stony Brook's scanning confocal acoustic diagnostic (SCAD) technology for in vivo studies.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Spaceflight is known to cause a range of physiological changes to the musculoskeletal system, including decreased durability of bony tissue. To counter these changes, NASA must develop exercise regimens and assess the effectiveness of these regimens. Luna's PPLL monitoring system, when combined with Stony Brook's SCAD technology, will provide a real-time, noninvasive measurement of bone strength during exercise, allowing NASA to develop more effective exercise countermeasures against the loss of bone strength.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Bone strength monitoring is a widespread concern, particularly for the diagnosis of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a major public health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans, or 55 percent of the people 50 years of age and older. In the U.S. today, 10 million individuals are estimated to already have the disease and almost 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis. The technology can also be used to assess fracture healing and the affect of exercise regimens on athletes.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
TDA Research, Inc.
12345 West 52nd Ave
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033-1916
(303)422-7819

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
David T. Wickham
wickham@tda.com
12345 W. 52nd Ave.
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033-1916
(303)940-2350

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
In February 2004 NASA released "The Vision for Space Exploration". The important goals include extending human presence in the solar system culminating in the exploration of Mars and other remote destinations. To accomplish this goal, affordable, new technologies to support long-term missions must be developed. One of the most critical problems facing such space missions is identification of effective methods to control solid waste. With current waste models, 1300 kg of waste occupying a volume 20 m3 will be generated in a 180-day mission to Mars. Unprocessed waste poses a biological hazard to the crew and continual exposure to odors from untreated waste is a serious threat to crew health and morale. The waste processing methods currently under consideration include incineration, microbial oxidation, pyrolysis and compaction. Although each has advantages, no single method has yet been developed that is safe, recovers valuable resources including oxygen and water, and has low energy and space requirements. In this Phase I SBIR project, TDA will conduct tests with a new, low temperature oxidation process that converts waste to carbon dioxide and water. In addition to having low power requirements, the system will be compact and reliable.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The most immediate NASA application for a low temperature oxidation process would be to control solid waste on a long-term space mission. In addition, the process would find use in removing carbon deposits from heat exchangers in high-speed aircraft that utilize fuel for cooling. In some cases, thin layers of carbon are deposited on the heat exchanger walls, which if left to accumulate, can cause the unit to fail. Therefore, identifying a cost effective, simple, and safe procedure to remove coke between missions represents enabling technology for the continued development of reusable high-speed aircraft.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
In addition to the use our process would find in controlling waste, there are several commercial applications. The process can be applied to any situation where oxidation at low temperatures is necessary. For example the process can be used to clean hydrocarbons from semiconductors, magnetic disks, medical devices, flight hardware, etc. High temperature processes would damage these components, however at the moderate temperatures required with this process, these components would not be harmed.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Umpqua Research Company
P.O. Box 609
Myrtle Creek, OR 97457-0102
(541)863-7770

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
James R. Akse, Ph.D.
akse@urcmail.net
PO Box 609
Myrtle Creek, OR 97457-0102
(541)863-2653

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Future Exploration Initiative missions will require substantial reductions in ESM for water processing hardware. Significant reductions can be achieved using water treatment systems based upon thermally regenerable ion-exchange (TRIX) resins. Ion-exchange (IX) has been the preferred method for removal of aqueous ionic contaminants due to the efficiency of flow-through beds. Attributes of IX systems include ambient temperature and pressure operation, minimal energy use, rapid and efficient contaminant removal, and compared to other purification technologies, failure mechanisms are relatively benign. However, strong acid and alkali are required to regenerate these beds, making regeneration aboard spacecraft impractical. New hybrid TRIX resins developed at UMPQUA RESEARCH COMPANY offer the potential to remove ionic contaminants from water with an acceptable ESM, while retaining the intrinsic advantages of flow-through IX beds. Testing and further development of TRIX is proposed for removal of ionic contaminants from wastewater generated by future transit and early planetary base missions. The primary program objective will be the demonstration of efficient salt removal from different wastewater sources using TRIX resins. Phase I will demonstrate feasibility of water purification based upon TRIX. Phase II will result in development and testing of a fully functional system suitable for further independent testing by NASA.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The ESM for current and future water reclamation systems will be lowered by replacement of ion-exchange sub-processes with a TRIX system. TRIX systems can also be designed to augment other water treatment methods, such as for ammonia removal and nitrate recovery from biological water processor (BWPs), salt removal from post-treated photocatalytic or catalytic oxidation effluents, or salt removal from intermediate treatment processes such as reverse osmosis (RO).

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Employment of TRIX as a salt-free water softener for domestic and commercial uses, will be a major environmental benefit. TRIX will reduce regeneration chemical requirements for commercial ion-exchange systems. Commercial interest has been indicated by Novation Environmental Technologies for development of 'brine free' water softening methods and hardware to treat problematic industrial waste streams. Novation has expressed willingness to provide realistic waste stream compositions which cannot easily be treated by conventional methods, and to facilitate field trials in support of commercialization. Water purification systems based upon TRIX also have strong potential commercial application in the chemical, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical industries.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Umpqua Research Company
P.O. Box 609
Myrtle Creek, OR 97457-0102
(541)863-7770

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
James R. Akse, Ph.D.
akse@urcmail.net
PO Box 609
Myrtle Creek, OR 97457-0102
(541)863-2653

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Volume reduction is a critical element of Solid Waste Management for manned spacecraft and planetary habitations. To this end, a Heat Melt Compaction System is under development at Ames Research Center. During the heating process, certain volatile organic vapors are produced. Here we propose the development of a catalytic system for the treatment of these gaseous byproducts which will decomposed volatile organics into harmless inorganic substances such as carbon dioxide and water. These products may then be rerouted to the Life Support System for reduction to produce water (from CO2), and electrolysis of water to yield oxygen. Feasibility of the catalytic methods will be demonstrated during the Phase I research. The follow-on Phase II effort will result in the design, assembly, rigorous testing, and delivery to NASA of a prototype system, sized to operate in conjunction with the NASA developed compaction system.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The NASA application will be as an adjunct to the Heat Melt Compaction System currently under development at NASA-ARC. The proposed system will treat gaseous byproducts which are created during the compaction process, and which otherwise would be vented into the cabin. This will ensure crew health and minimize any additional load on the Atmospheric Revitalization system.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The primary commercial application will be as catalysts and catalytic reactors for employment in pollution control and environmental remediation. The proposed research will result in the development of improved catalysts and methods for the destruction of toxic organic vapors. These may be used to eliminate carbon monoxide and organic discharges in industrial stack gases, to remove volatile organics from indoor air (i.e., sick building syndrome), and to decompose organics which are volatilized during pump & treat methods for removal of contaminants from groundwaters and hazardous waste sites.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Eltron Research Inc
4600 Nautilus Court South
Boulder, CO 80301-3241
(303)530-0263

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jesse W. Taylor
eltron@eltronresearch.com
4600 Nautilus Court South
Boulder, CO 80301-3241
(303)530-0263

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The objective of this project is to develop advanced catalysts for a volatile removal assembly used to purify spacecraft water. The innovation of the proposed catalysts is improved oxidation activity for organic compounds relative to conventional systems. Additionally, by minimizing or avoiding noble metals in the compositions, catalyst cost is reduced and the materials are less susceptible to fouling. These characteristics will translate into lower weight, volume, and power requirements relative to current systems. Catalysts will be derived from a subset of Eltron-patented materials with demonstrated low-temperature oxidation activity and inherent water resistance. The technical goals will be to minimize the temperature and pressure requirements for operation, and resist catalyst leaching and hydrothermal sintering. These goals will be achieved by performing systematic studies that relate fabrication variables and compositions to catalyst characteristics. Candidate catalysts will be evaluated for destruction of representative organic contaminants, and activity will be determined as a function temperature and pressure. Coarse optimization of catalyst compositions will be performed, and the most promising compositions will be manufactured into grains with optimal dimensions and porosity.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The target NASA application for this technology is a catalytic component for a volatile removal assembly used to purify spacecraft water. Derivatives of this technology could be used by NASA for a catalytic air filtration unit.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Non-NASA applications will focus on catalysts for catalytic wet-air oxidation (CWAO). CWAO is used to purify harsh wastewater from a variety of industries, such as paper pulp mills, breweries, and chemical processing plants. This same technology also could be used for purifying municipal and residential water.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Applied Optical Materials
744 Stewart Canyon Rd
Fallbrook, CA 92028-8996
(760)451-0546

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
J Kevin Cammack
kevinc@aomat.com
744 Stewart Canyon Rd.
Fallbrook, CA 92028-8996
(760)451-0546

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This SBIR proposal aims to develop all-passive fiberoptic lighting systems that can be used on long space missions or here on earth. By addressing the traditional problems of concentration and solar tracking in a novel way, we will create a high efficiency lighting system that is also very durable and inexpensive. In this Phase I work, Applied Optical Materials will research two distinct methods for improving on conventional plastic fiber lighting technology. These innovations are directly relevant to the concentration efficiency of the system and have very high potential to reduce the cost and maintainability of passive lighting systems to a level commensurate with business and consumer applications.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
There is a need to find inexpensive, durable and power efficient means of lighting crops, promoting biomass decomposition, illuminating living quarters, etc. for longer space missions.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Americans spend over $40 billion annually to light homes and offices, and our consumption of electricity is directly related to dire ecological consequences such as global warming. The proposed system can address the needs of residential and commercial lighting in an economical and ecologically sound way.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Orbital Technologies Corp
Space Center, 1212 Fourier Drive
Madison, WI 53717-1961
(608)827-5000

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jeffery C. Emmerich
emmerichj@orbitec.com
1212 Fourier Drive
Madison, WI 53717-1961
(608)827-5000

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The innovation of the proposed project is the development of High Efficiency Lighting with Integrated Adaptive Control (HELIAC) systems to drive plant growth. Solar radiation is not a viable option for growing plants on the moon or on Mars for multiple reasons. On the other hand, lighting plants with electric lamps and rejecting the associated waste heat has energy costs that have driven NASA toward other options to provide food and fresh air to future Mars crews. The solution offered by this project improves upon the efficiency of a novel new light-distribution technology involving low-power, solid-state sources that emit specific-wavelength photons to match plant photoreceptors. The HELIAC lighting system consists of small individual "light engines" that provide a level of control precision far in excess of standard lamps. This precision enables lamp configuration to be adapted to species specific growth habits so that photons can be absorbed efficiently by all available photosynthetic tissues. HELIAC will also provide the capability to adapt spectral balance automatically to plant development stage. Finally, it will have the capability to automatically detect the proximity of plant tissue and power only adjacent light engines, thereby greatly decreasing power requirements, particularly during early plant development.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The production of edible biomass in closed or nearly-closed environments is essential for the future of long-term planetary exploration and human settlement on the moon or Mars. The proposed lighting system is well suited for use in large space-based applications. In addition to the potential for significant power savings over existing lighting systems, the use of solid-state lighting eliminates problems associated with traditional lighting in closed systems such as short operational life (requiring resupply), high mass and volume, limited control options, and safety concerns including high temperatures, glass envelopes, and toxic materials.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Controlled-environment agriculture profitability often is most limited by energy costs. Dense crop stands block overhead light from reaching the majority of lower leaves in closed foliar canopies, thereby compromising yield and requiring high light levels that are not absorbed efficiently. Light-distribution systems that are low power, relatively cool, that uniformly irradiate all leaves within a stand only with wavelengths most efficiently absorbed by photosynthetic tissue, and that 0automatically adjust emissions to target new tissues as plants grow in height or spread without wasting photons by lighting empty space will substantially lower energy costs of controlled-environment production and will improve profitability.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Kebaili Inc.
316 Magnolia Drive
Laguna Beach, CA 92651-1752
(949)494-5892

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mo Kebaili
mo@kebaili.com
316 Magnolia Drive
Laguna Beach, CA 92651-1752
(949)494-5892

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)is the leading chemical agent causing human fatalities following inhalation exposures. The overall aim of this project is to develop and produce an inexpensive, highly selective and sensitive solid-state chemical micro-sensor with low power consumption that is suitable for rapid detection of very low-level (ppb) concentration of H2S in ambient air.
The technology principle used to develop the micro-sensor is based on the knowledge that H2S is adsorbed into gold at an operating temperature range. By using a gold thin-film, and MEMS technology, we will produce a micro-sensor with the following specifications 1 mm x 1 mm micro-sensor, 3 seconds response and recovery time, 10 mW power consumption, and detection in the ppb range.
Phase I will investigate the feasibility of the design, fabrication, testing, and validation of the micro-sensor in collaboration with researchers from the Integrated Nanosystems Research Facility at the University of California Irvine.
During Phase II, the innovative solid-state micro-sensor will be integrated in a miniaturized battery powered wireless instrument for applications in biomass fouling detection.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The H2S micro-sensor can be integrated with other chemical micro-sensors to form an intelligent multi-gas sensors.
The design of a micro-miniature H2S monitor, that is wireless, and with very low power consumption, can be used in the following application areas:
Environmental monitoring and control for human life support.
Environmental control of spacecraft cabin atmosphere.
Monitoring of biomass production for planetary missions.
Biomass fouling detection

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
H2S is generated by bacteria in the mouth, and it is the cause of bad breath. An inexpensive, highly sensitive H2S detector, can help people with their oral hygiene, since they cannot smell their own bad breath.
A low cost H2S monitor for environmental and industrial applications.
A miniature H2S detector can be used as an H2S cartridge filter end of life indicator for respirators.
Atmospheric H2S monitoring with weather balloons.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Anvik Corp
6 Skyline Dr
Hawthorne, NY 10532-2165
(914)345-2442

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Marc Zemel
mzemel@anvik.com
Anvik Corp., 6 Skyline Drive
Hawthorne, NY 10532-2165
(914)345-2442

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
It is desirable to develop a high-efficiency lighting source for large-area irradiation of space-based crops. The key requirements for such a system include high efficiency, light weight, easy and rapid deployment, compact storage, ruggedness, and low cost. Furthermore, in order to maximize the rate of photosynthesis, it is desirable that the light source deliver an emission spectrum that matches the absorbance spectrum of chlorophyll as closely as possible while minimizing the effects of emission outside of the visible spectrum. To address these demanding requirements and overcome the limitations of alternative technologies, we propose to develop a large-area, high-efficiency, flexible sheet light source using microdischarge arrays using the combined talents of Anvik Corporation and a team from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, led by Prof. J. Gary Eden. The development of a new technology to enable the fabrication of large-area, high-density microdischarge arrays on flexible substrates, possibly powered by solar cells, will enable dramatic advances in the portability, ruggedness, efficiency, and light quality of light sources for space-based crop irradiation and a wide variety of commercial applications, including LCD backlighting, large-area UV-curing, decorative lighting, photodynamic therapy, and germicidal applications.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed microdischarge array flexible light source can be used for high-efficiency irradiation of plants grown on planetary or lunar stations, space stations, or other spacecraft. Further, this light source could be integrated with an inflatable structure and powered by photovoltaics, making it a very low-cost and lightweight option for transport and deployment of such space-based greenhouses. Finally, the same technology used for crop irradiation could also be used for interior lighting of space structures.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The development of a new technology to enable the fabrication of integrated, large-area, high-efficiency microdischarge arrays on flexible sheets would enable the construction of a wide variety of devices, including flexible sheet light sources for LCD backlights, large-area UV curing, photodynamic therapy, automotive interior lighting, decorative lighting, and germicidal applications. Finally, through the use of roll-to-roll processing, such devices could be manufactured economically in high volumes. Such devices would be ideal for lighting applications where portability, efficiency, conformability, ruggedness, and low cost are required.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
MER Corp
7960 S. Kolb Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85706-9237
(520)574-1980

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Witold Kowbel
mercorp@mercorp.com
7960 S. Kolb Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85706-9237
(520)574-1980

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The NASA vision of Space Exploration requires new approaches to radiation shielding. Both Spiral 2 and Spiral 3 concepts are extremely sensitive to weight reduction. Currently used thermal protection (TPS) and radiation shielding concepts are separate identities. As a result, the net weight of current TPS/radiation shielding concepts is very significant. In an effort to greatly reduce the mass of the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV), a totally new concept is proposed. It merges a novel approach to TPS combined with a totally new approach to radiation shielding. A boron carbide foam will be produced by a novel method. This foam will be integrated into a CEV TPS concept. As a result, the TPS will serve a multiple function including radiation shielding resulting in a significant weight saving.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The primary NASA application is in the area of the Crew Exploration Vehicle for Spiral 2 and Spiral 3.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The novel boron carbide foam can be used as radiation shielding in future commercial space travel.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Materials Modification Inc
2721-D Merrilee Drive
Fairfax, VA 22031-3723
(703)560-1371

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Ramachandran Radhakrishnan
radha@matmod.com
2721-D Merrilee Drive
Fairfax, VA 22031-4428
(703)560-1371

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA's Advanced Extravehicular Activity (EVA) program requires the need for materials that can protect astronauts and spacecrafts from ionizing radiations such as low and high energy X-rays. Currently, lead and lead-based material are used to fabricate shields not only for X-rays but for other types of radiation as well. Lead is heavy and toxic. In this Phase I project, MMI proposes to develop a polymer composite that utilizes a nanocrystalline heavy metal salt for radiation shielding.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The composite developed will be suitable for incorporation in protective clothing and gear for astronauts during NASA's missions such as the Advanced Extravehicular Activity (EVA) program, as well as radiation shields for large space structures such as space stations, orbiters, landers, rovers and habitats and enclosures that house X-ray detectors and sensors.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The polymer composite can be used to fabricate medical gowns that can be worn instead of the heavy lead shields that are used during routine medical X-ray examination. The material can also be used to fabricate lab coats and other protective gear for personnel working with radioactive materials.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Advanced Fuel Research Inc
87 Church Street
East Hartford, CT 06108-3728
(860)528-9806

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Eric Rubenstein
ericr@AFRinc.com
87 Church Street
East Hartford, CT 06108-3728
(860)528-9806

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This project addresses two vital problems for long-term space travel activities: radiation shielding and hydrogen storage for power and propulsion. While both problems have been studied for many years, there is currently no satisfactory technology for providing adequate non-parasitic shielding. Even in low-Earth orbit, astronauts must be closely monitored for radiation exposure, and some missions simply cannot be performed due to the current inability to shield astronauts (e.g. Mars or surface Lunar bases). The overall objective of the proposed project is to construct, test, and deliver a prototype for hydrogen storage and radiation shielding. The Phase I objectives are to validate/verify the radiation shielding capability of these systems and to operate it in a relevant environment, i.e. while being bombarded by ionizing radiation at a nuclear accelerator. These objectives will be accomplished in four tasks: (1) prototype preparation and characterization; (2) empirical study of radiation shielding at BNL Accelerator Facilities; (3) complementary computational study to broaden shielding characterization and to validate shielding code performance with respect to this nonparasitic shielding concept and (4) process and product assessment. The successful operation of the prototype would raise the TRL from 4 to 5 or 6 (system operated in a relevant environment).

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The main NASA applications for the proposed technology is dual-use hydrogen storage and radiation shielding systems on board spacecraft, space station, and also smaller versions used for innovations in spacesuit design, possibly a specially modified Hard Upper Torso (HUT). The primary purpose of this effort is to develop a piece of hardware for NASA that can ultimately be an important component of a Controlled Ecological Life Support System (CELSS), providing at the same time energy-storage functionality. The systems developed as a results of the proposed study will be useful to NASA in at least two respects: 1) radiation shielding for people and electronics, and 2) fuel storage for propulsion or electrical power generation. The multi-functional material in the current study significantly boosts the hydrogen storage ability of compressed gas cylinders and provides excellent radiation shielding characteristics.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Commercial areas that are under exploration are primarily related to fuel cell systems, with automobiles and other transportation vehicles of particular interest. The main application of the developed carbons would be in gas-storage systems (automobiles, trucks, buses, locomotives, spacecraft, submarines, UAV's, etc.), with additional applications including radiation shielding in other aerospace environments (satellites, military/astronomical detectors sensitive to obscuring background radiation, high-altitude, long-duration aircraft, etc.). AFR has also been approached by a firm specializing in hazardous gas packaging for their interest in storing gases at less than atmospheric pressure. In such an application, our sorbent has the potential to double or triple the amount of gas in a cylinder. Other uses of carbons with well-controlled pore structure include carbon molecular sieve membranes for gas separations, ultracapacitor electrodes, and catalysts. AFR is actively working with Maxwell Technologies, our industrial partner, to bring our ultracapacitor electrode technology to market.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Eloimagnus Advanced Sciences & Technologies
6701 Democracy Boulevard, Suite 300
Bethesda, MD 20817-7500
(301)214-9076

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Sarah John
sarah.john@eastresearch.com
6701 Democracy Boulevard, Suite 300
Bethesda, MD 20817-7500
(301)214-9076

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
A database of nucleon-nucleon elastic differential and total cross sections will be generated by stochastic simulation of the quantum Liouville equation in the Wigner representation, incorporating innovations of: (1) antisymmetrization effects of spin ? nucleons in phase space; (2) the first order quantum corrections as a stochastic process for two-nucleon dynamics; and (3) a linked list algorithm to streamline and speed computing. Phase I will produce a prototype 4-dimensional phase space simulation of one dimensional spatial scattering, which will be extended in Phase II to three dimensional spatial scattering with a full 12-dimensional phase space model. Significance includes design of radiation shielding materials for manned NASA missions into deep space, where galactic cosmic rays pose a serious health hazard. Computer codes simulating nuclear transport through materials, with associated input databases of interaction cross sections, enable radiation risk assessment of shielding materials. The proposed database of nucleon cross sections forms a subset of the input database. The simulation may potentially be extended to generate databases for nuclear elastic, inelastic, and fragmentation cross sections. Commercial applications include radiation protection for humans on earth under hazardous conditions. The simulation also has applications to nanotechnology and quantum information technologies.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
For manned NASA deep space missions, the challenge of protecting humans and onboard instrumentation from galactic cosmic rays, while meeting the stringent requirements on spaceship design and payload, demands optimal design of radiation shielding materials. Computer codes simulating nuclear transport through materials, with associated input databases of interaction cross sections, enable radiation risk assessment of shielding materials. The proposed database will form a subset of the input database. Also, if nuclear fueled energy plays a role in NASA missions, appropriate shielding materials may be required to reduce the risk of radiation exposure to sensitive payload.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed innovation will have a commercial spin off, in conjunction with NASA technology, for developing protective radiation shielding materials for use in high radiation environments on earth. The proposed simulation is also of interest in atomic, molecular, nuclear, and interstellar sciences, and nanotechnology and quantum information technology at which scales purely quantum effects begin to gain dominance.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Lynntech, Inc.
7607 Eastmark Drive, Suite 102
College Station, TX 77840-4027
(979)693-0017

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jinseong Kim
jinseong.kim@lynntech.com
7607 Eastmark Drive, Ste. 102
College Station, TX 77840-4027
(979)693-0017

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Water reclamation is one of the basic functions of the closed regenerative life support systems needed for manned space missions. To assure the quality of the recycled water, particularly for human consumption, monitoring of key water quality parameters, such as total organic carbon (TOC), pH, and conductivity is critical. TOC instruments are used to assess the levels of organic contaminants present in recycled water. NASA seeks for significant improvements in miniaturization, accuracy, precision, and operational reliability, as well as long life, real-time measurement, in-line operation, self-calibration, reduction of expendables, low energy consumption, and minimal maintenance for those monitors. Current available TOC analyzers do not meet those standards. This proposal concerns the development of a small, effective, energy-efficient, reagentless carbon analyzer (RCA). It will combine (i) electrochemical technology to produce two key elements in TOC analysis, acid and oxidant, and (ii) photolysis for the complete oxidation of organic carbons to carbon dioxide. It will also incorporate a microfluidic design. During the Phase I effort, the feasibility of the proposed system will be demonstrated. During the Phase II project, a microgravity-compatible, automated system will be fabricated and delivered to NASA.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Successful development of the second generation of a reagentless carbon analyzer (RCA) will lead to water quality monitoring assuring that the chemical contents of the water environment of the astronaut crew habitat falls within acceptable limits for potable or hygienic water, which is essential to enable human planetary exploration missions ranging from a return to the Moon and through an initial Mars mission, including using the International Space Station.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Total organic carbon (TOC) analysis is a well-defined and commonly used analytical tool. Many water utilities monitor TOC to determine raw water quality or to evaluate the effectiveness of processes designed to remove organic carbons. Successful development of the reagentless carbon analyzer (RCA) as a hand-held device will have a high commercial applicability to a wide range of industries where water quality assurance and control is important, such as semiconductor industries or pharmaceutical industries.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
AlphaSniffer LLC
1865 33rd Steet #A
Boulder, CO 80301-2514
(303)545-5550

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Oyvind Nilsen
o.nilsen@comcast.net
1865 33rd Steet #A
Boulder, CO 80301-2514
(303)545-5550

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
New challenges and mission requirements constantly emerge, establishing the need for versatile equipment and instruments to perform the new/expanded tasks. AlphaSniffer propose the development of a compact chemical monitoring system that provides highly sensitive, selective, and rapid detection of trace contaminants that will be able to meet such new requirements. The monitoring system will have low power consumption and remain stable and reliable for 12 months or longer. The system is based on unique technology of detecting a chemical reaction/interaction of the sought-after chemical in a (polymeric) transducer material through real-time dynamic optical holography. Significant advantages over other competing sensor technologies include: fast response and recovery times (sub second), low ppb sensitivity, low power and compact size. Additionally transducer elements may easily be replaced if they are damaged/contaminated. The implementation of a single optical contact between the polymeric transducer element and the holographic detection system minimizes complications of replacing the sensing agents/transducers. Due to the rapid response, the transducer elements are only briefly exposed to the reacting/interacting chemical, drastically improving long-term stability and repeatability. When completed, this research should lead to the development of a compact state-of-the-art trace chemical monitoring system, with superior versatility and performance over other sensors.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Due to the rapid measurement cycle of our holographic instrument, new possibilities in terms of measurements emerge. NASA for instance, does significant research in life support systems and bio-habitats environments. In addition to cabin environment monitoring, a rapid monitoring system would be able to perform real time monitoring of the environment in a closed habitat with plants or mice, where ethylene, CO, NO or other agents may provide critical understanding of potential space habitats.
Potential monitoring of liquid in the future will also open for new applications. Waste monitoring, water quality monitoring, detection of hyrdazine and biomedical testing in space for human diagnostics are applications of interest.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
AlphaSniffer's holographic detection technology can potentially become inexpensive and compact, while maintaining high performance. Together with low cost, replaceable transducers will enable AlphaSniffer to produce chemical and biological detection instruments that would not only target niche markets, but the general "consumer market" as well.
Potential applications include: detection instruments for first-responders, personal alert equipment for soldiers, inspection tools for law enforcement and customs, medical diagnostics tools, sensor networks for buildings and liquid process monitoring for the pharmaceutical industry.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Luna Innovations Incorporated
2851 Commerce Street
Blacksburg, VA 24060-6657
(540)552-5128

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Matthew S Hull
keena@lunainnovations.com
2851 Commerce Street
Blacksburg, VA 24060-6657
(540)552-5128

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Luna Innovations proposes to adapt its current aqueous-based, fiber-optic microcantilever sensor technology for real-time, monitoring of ammonia in air. Phase I studies will focus on confirming sensor operation in a vapor-phase detection format and will build upon Luna's current NASA SBIR Phase II program to develop novel affinity microcantilever-based biosensors for monitoring bacterial and chemical contaminants in space-station water supplies. The biosensor is based on the principle that as target organisms or molecules bind to a reactive microcantilever beam, coating deformation caused by the binding event deflects the beam in proportion to the concentration of bound target. Using gold-based coupling chemistries, any assortment of reactive polymers, oligonucleotides, or other suitable ligand can be attached to multiple microcantilever beams in an array format. This allows discrimination of select targets from a complex mixture of other compounds. Using patented interferometric measurement and signal interrogation technology, researchers at Luna have confirmed microcantilever beam deflection with subnanometer sensitivity in water. During the proposed Phase I program, Luna will focus efforts on vapor phase detection of ammonia using novel reactive polymers developed. The microcantilever sensor inherently lends itself to multiplexing using micromachined arrays and can be integrated with virtually any type of air-sampling device.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed research applies directly to NASA research focused on detection of toxic vapors. NASA is specifically concerned about monitoring for ammonia and hydrazine, which are associated with space-craft temperature regulation. Ammonia leaks in particular can damage couplings and jeopardize critical space-craft cooling features. More importantly, ammonia leakage within space-craft poses a danger to human health. The proposed sensor technology provides NASA with a low-cost, robust, real-time monitoring format for protection of both crew and space-craft.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The affinity microcantilevers will not only be useful for space-craft-based air monitoring applications, but also will be adaptable for numerous other applications including homeland defense, smart-building HVAC systems monitoring, water quality and environmental monitoring, food safety, process monitoring, and medical diagnostics.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Odyssey Space Research
2525 Bay Area Blvd., Suite 460
Houston, TX 77058-1572
(281)488-7953

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
David Strack
dstrack@odysseysr.com
2525 Bay Area Blvd., Suite 460
Houston, TX 77058-1572
(281)488-7953

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA's safety mandate for crewed and high value spacecraft currently necessitates design requirements that create a cost barrier for commercial companies trying to provide on-orbit logistics services for NASA. The proposed innovation offers a means to facilitate commercial involvement in on-orbit servicing by developing a spacecraft that removes this burden from commercial vehicles. The spacecraft will:
? Perform automated rendezvous and capture to ferry commercial spacecraft to target spacecraft
? Provide a safe interface between simple, low cost, commercial spacecraft and high value targets (ISS, CEV, Lunar Lander, propellant depot, or high value satellites)

This will serve as key infrastructure element to enable emerging commercial space companies and other developers of low cost systems to play significant roles in NASA's Exploration program and/or ISS re-supply activities. This infrastructure will:
? Prevent restrictive and extremely expensive fault tolerance, safety, and Human Rating requirements from being levied on the commercial vehicles,
? Remove the need for commercial vehicles to design, develop, and test independent automated rendezvous and docking (AR&D) systems,
? Reduce the amount of expensive AR&D and safety related hardware launched and discarded on each flight, and
? Reduce the cost of integrating each spacecraft through standardized interfaces.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The primary purpose of the SBIR project is to create a new element of NASA's infrastructure that will enable the use of low cost commercial spacecraft in NASA's overall development strategy. Some examples are:
? Low cost ISS re-supply using commercial launch and spacecraft developers
? Unique solutions to some of the mission challenges for the exploration program
? Support and servicing of NASA satellites

The use of the spacecraft does not need to be limited to low cost commercial spacecraft. It can also be used for:
? Any automated rendezvous and docking program
? Test platform for Exploration program

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Any infrastructure that supports the introduction of low cost commercial spacecraft will have longer term commercial applications. Some of these include:
? On-orbit spacecraft servicing
? Commercial support of NASA's exploration mission or ISS re-supply

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
AZ Technology Inc
7047 Old Madison Pike, Suite 300
Huntsville, AL 35804-2188
(256)837-9877

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
James Chamberlain
jimc@aztechnology.com
7047 Old Madison Pike, Suite 300
Huntsville, AL 35806-2188
(256)837-9877

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The Command, Control, Communications and Information (C3I) environment will be significantly different for Constellation than for Shuttle and International Space Station (ISS). Missions will operate not only in Near Earth round-trip latencies (RTLT) of seconds but also Near Mars RTLT of 10 to 40 minutes. New classes of collaboration services are required to support the spectrum of Constellation missions and infrastructure. Integrating popular collaboration tools such as Groove Virtual Office on Constellation C3I space-based components and networks will be a major innovation. This project proposes experimental use in SBIR Phases II/III of ISS flight and ground capabilities to demonstrate new collaboration services for use in the Constellation program. These new space-based and terrestrial services will greatly improve communications among all Constellation personnel over current techniques. The approach includes: 1) Integrate instant messaging, e-mail, transcription, etc. with voice and video communications; 2) Design for automation and autonomy of space-based Constellation components; 3) Evolve development collaboration services into mission collaboration services over time; 4) Promote new collaboration standards, interoperability, standardized interfaces, and modularity; 5) Adapt the collaboration architecture to the ground and space networks and frameworks. Client-server, peer-to-peer, or a hybrid architecture may be most suitable.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Phase II will develop prototype collaboration services to be proposed for trial use by International Space Station (ISS) ground facilities - Payload Operations and Integration Center (POIC) and Mission Control Center (MCC) - for use in mission operations and support, including remotely-located experimenters. Phase II will also evaluate the possibility of flying a new collaboration tool on an ISS crew laptop for use in crew-ground-experimenter communications. Phase III will market these new collaboration services to NASA for standard ISS mission operations as well as for Constellation program development and support collaboration, which by 2008 should be maturing.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Collaboration system popularity is booming (e.g., WebEx annual revenues rose from $0M to $200M in 5 years). COTS will be ideal for day-to-day business use; however, many organizations want to control and customize their own systems rather than relying on commercial services. There is great sales potential for systems that are integrated with and customized for large projects. Customers: corporate, military C3I, healthcare training, and grids used by distributed teams of research scientists. Specific products: add-on software tools for Apache JetSpeed and Groove Virtual Office developed for ISS/Constellation and adapted for business use. Services: software reseller-integrator for Groove, WebEx.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
UTOPIACOMPRESSION, CORPORATION
11150 W. Olympic Blvd. Suite 1020
Los Angeles, CA 90064-1825
(310)473-1500

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Pierre Grinspan
pierre@utopiacompression.com
11150 W. Olympic Blvd. Suite 1020
Los Angeles, CA 90064-1825
(310)473-1500

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The use of truly autonomous vehicles (UV) has been hampered by a lack of sophisticated and resource efficient obstacle avoidance systems. Current approaches have focused on either expensive active sensor systems or inferential processing techniques that are computationally intensive. In this proposal, UtopiaCompression Corporation (UC) presents a layered, intelligent and adaptive system concept that will facilitate true UV autonomous operations by solving the collision avoidance problem using inexpensive imaging sensors and modest computational resources.
UtopiaCompression proposes focused research to push the limits of automation in the 3D arena by providing a real-time, end-to-end solution tailored to NASA's sensor data and mission requirements. This would be accomplished by deriving and using 3D structures obtained from inexpensive sensors to compute and model a spatio-temporal vector field. UC's novel, iterative refinement, multi-resolution registration algorithms enable the inexpensive and efficient generation of the 3D structures. These methods would be integrated into navigation strategies utilized to command UVs for safe cruising (avoiding collision) through cluttered environments.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
UC/DRA's technology, if integrated into the payload delivery and control mechanisms of orbiting and exploration machinery, would enable automated collision avoidance. This capability would measurably increase the safety of space exploration, both manned and unmanned, and decrease costs associated with equipment damage resultant from collisions. The proposed technology will minimize the crew time required for spacecraft operations through automation, enabling the most productive use of minimal personnel. In addition, the object avoidance capabilities can be integrated into unmanned space vehicles and exploration machinery such as the Mars Rovers, enhancing their mission capabilities and facilitating a greater degree of remote exploration.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
UC/DRA's adaptive obstacle avoidance technology has extensive utility for military and commercial uses. First, intelligent collision avoidance will greatly enhance the combat effectiveness of autonomous air vehicles in heterogeneous, 3D environments. The technology could be extended to include auto detection and tracking capabilities to detect anomalies, identify unusual or risk-associated patterns as well as appearances of certain targeted objects. Second, the commercial benefits would be to greatly increase the safety and effectiveness of public roads and highways as a means of transportation for trucking and passenger transport.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Steven Winter Associates Inc.
50 Washington Street
Norwalk, CT 06854-2721
(203)857-0200

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Ravi Gorthala
rgorthala@swinter.com
50 Washington Street
Norwalk, CT 06854-2721
(203)857-0200

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Steven Winter Associates, Inc. (SWA) proposes to develop a nation-wide informal technology education program that integrates math, science, engineering and technology (STEM) through its Think Tek Learning Lab. The goal of the Lab is three-pronged: providing an after-school enrichment program for teens; arousing interest in math and science; and achieving outreach for NASA commercial technologies. The Lab will serve middle/high school students through after-school and Saturday classes, summer institutes, and school visits. The focus of this informal technology learning laboratory includes hands-on experimentation and exploration, design and construction, and interaction with a variety of technologies, scientists, and learning materials. The Lab will be a living NASA outreach spin-off with experiments that showcase real-life NASA commercial technologies. The project will support NASA's efforts to publicize the positive ripple effects that the space funding generates on the domestic front.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed Think Tek Learning Lab will significantly reinforce NASA's efforts on STEM education. In addition, the Lab will serve as a living NASA outreach spin-off that highlights the importance of space funding on day-to-day commercial and consumer technologies.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
While informal education is a multi-billion dollar industry in the U.S., there are several successful nation-wide companies in the field of education. Examples include KAPLAN, Huntington Learning Center, Sylvan Learning Center and Kumon. There is no nation-wide education company with a focus on hands-on STEM education. That presented SWA with an opportunity to develop Think Tek . SWA will develop a pilot program in Asheville, NC, modularize it and market it throughout the country.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
TRS Ceramics Inc
2820 East College Ave Suite J
State College, PA 16801-7548
(814)238-7485

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Paul W. Rehrig
paul@trstechnologies.com
2820 East College Ave Suite J
State College, PA 16801-7548
(814)238-7485

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
TRS Technologies proposes large stroke and high precision piezoelectric single crystal and electroactive polymer actuator concepts?HYBrid Actuation System (HYBAS) for cryogenic passive optics devices such as Fabry-Perot interferometer and Fourier Transform Spectrometer for NASA remote sensing applications. Both single crystal piezoelectrics (PMN-PT and PZT-PT crystals) and electro-active polymer (EAP) are well known novel materials with large strain under electric activation. TRS has lead the development of single crystal actuators for applications with broad temperature range (<20K-300K). The National Institute of Aerospace has been extensively involved in electroactive polymer materials and device development and they recently invented the hybrid actuation system (HYBAS) which exhibits significant strain improvement by combining single crystal piezoelectrics and EAP. HYBAS actuator design considering special properties of single crystal with different crystal cut will be carried out using both analytical and FEM modeling. A HYBAS actuator with stroke of 1~2 mm will be prototyped and tested with and without pre-loading. The characterization data of HYBAS will be compared with the performance of the existing TRS actuators for consideration in Phase II etalon designs. In Phase II cryogenic etalons using HYBAS and/or other TRS cryogenic actuators will be designed, prototyped and characterized.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
HYBAS actuator controlled etalon for -Perot interferometer and Fourier Transform Spectrometers will allow broader range of spectral scanning for NASA remote sensing. Cryogenic HYBAS actuator technology also offer capability of large stroke, high precision and fast responsive for cryogenic adaptive optics, vibration control and smart structures in many future NASA missions such as JWST, SIM, SAFIR, TPF and others.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
HYBAS actuators are also attractive for many DOD remote sensing applications and adaptive optics programs as well such as DM technology for directed energy applications. Apart from the active and passive optics applications, large stroke, high precision and fast responsive HYBAS actuators are also good candidates for fiber optic steering, microwave tuning, vibration control and smart structures, electromechanical optical switch, and micro/nanopositioning for photonics and biomedical tooling, etc.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Lake Shore Cryotronics Inc
575 McCorkle Blvd.
Westerville, OH 43082-8699
(614)891-2243

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Marc Christophersen
marc.christophersen@lakeshore.com
575 McCorkle Blvd.
Westerville, OH 43082-8699
(614)891-2243

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This SBIR Phase I proposal describes a novel method to make optical filters based on mesoporous silicon multilayers, for use at cold temperatures in the far infrared spectral region. This type of filter consists of a lattice of different porosity layers formed in monocrystalline silicon by electrochemical means. Due to the nature of the material, mesoporous silicon filters do not suffer from thermal, mechanical, and environmental instabilities. More over, due to the high transparency of the mesoporous silicon throughout a large part of the far IR range, such filters can be made for wavelengths far longer than those that can be addressed with conventional interference filter technology. They will considerably outperform filters based on metal meshes. Such filters are expected to impact astronomical, commercial, military and scientific communities in many filter applications. In Phase I, it is proposed to demonstrate the feasibility of the method by fabricating porous multilayers with ultrahigh thickness and to evaluate a sintering technique to enhance environmental stability. In Phase II, optimized filters will be fabricated and their properties compared with design predictions. Phase III will involve product design, fabricating filter structures to meet customers' physical as well as optical needs, and marketing and sales investments.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Far-infrared imaging is a powerful technique to study the center of our galaxy and beyond. However, this wavelength range is difficult to work in. At these wavelengths, room temperature objects emit strongly. The strong Earth background causes weak signal-to-noise ratios. Far IR filters are needed to separate extraterrestrial signals from this background to build a meaningful picture. Currently used filters suffer from problems stemming from the lack of materials that are transparent, stable and compatible with each other at these wavelengths. The proposed type of filter can solve these problems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Narrow band pass, band pass and band blocking mid and far IR filters are used in environmental monitoring, chemical and biological analysis, imaging and other areas. Customers include manufacturers of production equipment, as well as manufacturers and users of "consumer" optical components and equipment. Lake Shore proposes a new design for optical filters that has the potential to be an enabling technology. Hence, all these applications may be considered as potential markets for mesoporous filters.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
ADVR Inc
910 Technology Blvd Suite K
Bozeman, MT 59718-4012
(406)522-0388

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Tony Roberts
roberts@advr-inc.com
910 Technology Blvd., Suite K
Bozeman, MT 59718-4012
(406)522-0388

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The proposed optical device is a fiber-based multi-channel switch to quickly switch a fiber-coupled laser among many possible output channels to create a fiber-based fixed-array laser transmitter for next-generation NASA lidar systems. The key innovation is the use of an arrangement of electro-optic prisms created in a nonlinear optical crystal through domain reversal to direct the laser into one of many possible output fibers. This design will provide several important features that are required, yet not currently available in a fiber switch, in order to achieve a fiber-arrayed lidar source, such as high optical power handling, reduced crosstalk, low optical loss, fast switching times, low power consumption, and robust construction in a monolithic package with no moving parts. The Phase I effort will demonstrate feasibility of the approach by creating a preliminary device with representative features to assess the suitability of the technology for use in lidar systems.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed switching array will enable the creation of a fiber-based fixed-array laser transmitter that, combined with a fiber-arrayed detector, can provide laser imaging with a shaped field of view for an enhanced lidar return signal and image resolution. Furthermore, the monolithic construction, low power consumption, and predicted high reliability will make the device suitable for airborne and space-based deployment.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
In addition to its use as a electro-optic switching array for NASA lidar, the device will have applications in the areas of optical remote sensing and environmental monitoring, military applications, and basic research. In addition to lidar applications, the proposed switching device will also be useful in applications requiring all-fiber switching and multiplexing using high power lasers.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
NP Photonics, Inc.
9030 S. Rita Road
Tucson , AZ 85747-9102
(520)799-7424

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Shibin Jiang
jiang@npphotonics.com
9030 S. Rita Road Ste 120
Tucson, AZ 85747-9102
(520)799-7407

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal is for the development of new compact, high power and extremely reliable 2 micron seed laser using newly developed Tm3+ doped germanate glass fibers, which exhibit high quantum efficiency. This type of fiber based seed laser is needed for constructing high energy pulsed 2 micron Ho-doped crystal lasers for LIDAR applications. We propose to use highly Tm3+ doped germanate glass fibers with high gain per unit length to form a short linear cavity to generate single frequency fiber laser operation. Germanate glass exhibits lower phonon energy compared to silica glass, increasing the quantum efficiency of 3F4 level of Tm3+ ions. Importantly, Tm3+ can be highly doped into germanate glasses, which results in so called cross-relaxation, dramatically improving the gain per unit length and the quantum efficiency. The single frequency fiber laser will be used to construct seed lasers by integrating with controlling electronics.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)

This fiber based seed laser can be used to generate high energy pulsed 2 micron Ho-doped crystal lasers, which are generally used for LIDAR applications in NASA. This proposed device is much more reliable compared to existing technology in NASA's touch operating environment.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This single frequency 2 micron fiber laser and seed laser can be used for many commercial applications, especially for fiber optic sensor where a long coherence light source is needed.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Orbits lightwave, inc.
101 Waverly Drive
Pasadena, CA 91105-2513
(626)795-0667

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
yaakov Shevy
yshevy@orbitslightwave.com
101 Waverly Drive
Pasadena, CA 91105-2513
(626)795-0667

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This is a proposal to investigate the feasibility of developing a low cost, compact, lightweight, high power (>500m W) and narrow linewidth 1.5 and 1.06 micron fiber lasers based on a "virtual ring" laser cavity. We have already demonstrated "virtual ring" laser prototypes at 1.5 micron that push the performance envelope to unprecedented levels in a number of important parameters but with powers below 40 mW. In this research will increase the laser oscillator power to (>100 mw) and also boost it with a MOPA section. We will also investigate the feasibility of exending the virtual ring technology to the 1.06 micron band.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Coherent laser radar (LIDAR) use heterodyne detection by mixing the laser light scattered from a remote target with a reference local coherent laser oscillator. This technique offers high sensitivity as well as providing detailed phase and velocity information important for many current and future NASA missions. These include: velocimetry, wind sensing and aerosol particle size distribution. In addition, coherent lasers are important for deep space and inter-satellite communications systems especially at 1.06 ?m.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
We have already sampled mederate power "virtual ring" laser prototypes for potential defense applications. These include acoustic sensor system important for homeland defense. This application benefits from the low phase noise, low RIN and the outstanding frequency stability of the Ethernal laser. This and other applications can benefit from further R&D of our base-line technology. In addition, a high power Ethernal laser system can be importtant for coherent free space communications. LIDAR sytems are also needed commercially for measurement of wind speed and vortices.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Wasatch Photonics, Inc.
1305 North 1000 West, Suite 120
Logan, UT 84321-6832
(435)752-4301

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Richard D Rallison
rdr@ralcon.com
8501 South 400 West
Paradise, UT 84328-0142
(435)245-4623

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Current shared aperture diffractive optical elements (SHADOE) have intrinsic residual wavefront errors on the order of 20 waves which limits the angular resolution of the LIDAR application to a range between 150 and 400 micro-radians. It is possible to reduce these aberrations by constructing a secondary holographic correction plate using the aberrated wave from the SHADOE as one of the two construction waves. The other construction wave is either a collimated wave or an f#2 focused wave. All five overlapping apertures require individually constructed plates. This method of correction requires the use of the final playback wavelength for construction and so is useful for 532 and 355nm but not for 1064 nm. Computed diffractive optics can be used for 1064 nm using measured aberrations at the same wavelength. This proposal deals just with fabrication and test of the 355 nm LIDAR applications for which an entirely optical recording set up is adequate. Correction plates in the 2 inch diameter range are proposed with likely reduction in angular spread to under 50 micro-radians, which will greatly improve the signal to noise numbers in a LIDAR application.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Applications include improvement to LIDARs used in terrain and vegetation mapping with possible uses in coherent Doppler and other wind detection LIDARs. The UV elements may also be space qualified.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Commercial LIDAR applications such as terrain mapping, wind speed measurements near runways, pollution monitoring and possibly standoff material identification. The same technology can be used for production of big photon buckets for laser communications, fast spectro-photometers, solar collection and dispersion, solar laser pumping, improved resolution of large monochromatic telescopes and architectural lighting.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Biospherical Instruments Inc.
5340 Riley Street
San Diego, CA 92110-2621
(619)686-1888

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Charles R. Booth
booth@biospherical.com
5340 Riley St.
San Diego, CA 92110-2621
(619)686-1888

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Radiometers are a crucial element in NASA's studies of Planet Earth. This proposal addresses the basic need for a miniature spectrometer, flexibly configurable and optimized for above and in-water optical property measurements. The innovation we are proposing develops a 1 cm diameter photodetector module, called a "microradiometer." The microradiometer will consist of a photodetector, preamplifier with controllable gain, high resolution analog to digital converter (ADC), microprocessor, and an addressable digital port, all on one small, thin circuit assembly. We anticipate that the design will result in significant improvements in dynamic range, sampling speed, reliability, and reduced power consumption over existing instruments. In one embodiment, a single microradiometer forms the basis of a very small (much less than 2.5 cm diameter) single-channel submersible light sensor. In another application, clusters of microradiometers can be matched with front-end optics (collector/window/filter stack) to form small, fast, less expensive multiwavelength radiometers for a variety of measurements ? even hyperspectral applications. The envisioned microradiometer-based systems can be packaged into small underwater housings suitable for deployment on drifters, moorings, towed vehicles, and vertical profilers. Networks of these multiwavelength radiometers, configured to measure irradiance or radiance, can be operated synchronously by a central data acquisition computer.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
As the heart of a wide variety of new, flexibly deployed radiometers, this product directly supports current and future NASA satellite and aircraft missions and associated cal/val activities (e.g. AVIRIS, SeaWiFS, MODIS, VIIRS). The flexibility of the designs (standard profilers, multi-instrument free fall, castaway) support both inland, coastal, and oceanic research. This includes quantification of carbon budgets at sub-regional to global scales, coastal carbon dynamics, or even terrestrial applications such as tropical deforestation.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
We see this development being used in our instruments literally wherever a photodetector has been used in the past. Non-NASA benefits in technology parallel the direct benefit to NASA, with the extension that the ease of networking microradiometers affords increased opportunity for multidisciplinary studies, both in the field and in the lab.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Anasphere, Inc.
6597 Maltse Lane, Unit D
Bozeman, MT 59718-6954
(406)994-9354

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
John Bognar
jbognar@anasphere.com
6597 Maltse Lane, Unit D
Bozeman, MT 59718-6954
(406)994-9354

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The water content of clouds, whether in liquid or ice form, is a key variable to be measured when either calibrating remote sensing systems or when calculating the climatological effects of clouds. While a variety of sensors exist for making these measurements, all of the existing sensors require far too much power or other energy input to be used on small platforms with limited payloads such as UAVs, balloons, and kites.
Anasphere has developed and completed preliminary testing of a novel cloud water content sensor which does not require any external energy input, but is capable of measuring both liquid water and ice content of clouds. Preliminary results have been extremely promising.
Phase I work will include the fabrication and demonstration of proof-of-concept sensors based on the designs investigated in the preliminary research, culminating in a balloon-borne flight with a radiosonde through a cloud. Phase II work will include the refinement of the design, extensive laboratory testing, and extensive field intercomparisons and trials.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
One area of application will be in supporting the development of remote sensors (including passive sensors, active radars, etc.) that are designed to measure these same cloud properties. Such sensors may be ground-, aircraft-, or satellite-based. Another area of application is the measurement of cloud water content in support of studies related to cloud properties, radiation transfer, and climate change. Until highly accurate remote sensors become available, field researchers will have a need to directly measure cloud water properties using in-situ sensors.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Researchers in several other governmental agencies (including NOAA, DOE, and NCAR as examples) and universities will have applications similar to those of NASA researchers. Private businesses engaged in remote sensor development will also find the sensor useful in the testing and calibration of their sensors.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
EMAG Technologies, Inc.
1340 Eisenhower Place
Ann Arbor, MI 48108-3282
(734)973-6600

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Kazem F. Sabet
ksabet@emagtech.com
1340 Eisenhower Place
Ann Arbor, MI 48108-3282
(734)973-6600

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) can render microwave radiometer measurements useless. We propose a method and an architecture that can be used to identify sources of RFI and be used to identify an optimal scheme for the mitigation of RFI. The system consists of a fully functional digital radiometer that can collect data in the field and pipe the pre-detected signal into, for example, a spectrum analyzer for in-situ analysis or into removable flash memory for later analysis. The digital radiometer employs a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) for employing flexible mitigation strategies. It will also use a programmable noise source for generation of artificial RFI in the laboratory setting, allowing for efficient mitigation algorithm development in a laboratory setting, independent of actual RFI, which may be intermittent. Thus this one instrument can be used to identify RFI, develop mitigation approaches for RFI, and validate the mitigation strategy. A flexible system is essential for this task since RFI takes many forms.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA is seeking techniques for the detection and removal of RFI in microwave radiometers. Techniques which are proven to mitigate RFI will be incorporated into future spaceborne and airborne microwave radiometer instruments. The device under consideration here could serve either as a product or service to NASA. Systems that could benefit from this technology include, but are not limited to, Lightweight Rainfall Radiometer, GeoSTAR, ACMR, HYDROS, and future AMSR instruments.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Aerospace corporations, Universities, government agencies other than NASA, and international groups also construct radiometers that could benefit from the results of this technology. Indeed, RFI mitigating radiometer technology developed by NASA will increasingly be exploited by other institutions, especially as enabling technologies like validated RFI mitigation techniques are developed. These institutions known to the authors to manufacture radiometers include, but are not limited to, Aerospace Corporation, ProSensing, Inc., Radiometrics, Inc., U. S. Navy, NOAA Environmental Technology Laboratory, The University of Michigan and The University of Massachusetts.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Hittite Microwave Corp
12 Elizabeth Drive
Chelmsford, MA 01824-4147
(978)250-3343

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Michael Koechlin
koechlin@hittite.com
12 Elizabeth Drive
Chelmsford, MA 01824-4147
(978)250-3343

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
MMIC technology provides the technology base to reduce the size and weight of microwave and millimeter wave (MMW) equipment on board airborne and space-based platforms. Signal sources at MMW frequencies, however, have not been available in MMIC form widely. Hittite has developed a family of MMIC products to implement complete phase-locked synthesizers in using MMIC and mixed-signal ICs and demonstrated miniaturized frequency synthesizers representing size reduction of several orders of magnitude without sacrificing performance. Based on recent success in demonstration of critical MMICs and ICs, Hittite proposes to apply its novel MMIC concept to design MMW signal sources for application in earth monitoring sensors. Two different synthesizer architecture, one direct and one indirect, are proposed as candidate approaches. In both cases, frequency synthesis will take place at about 1/8 of the output frequency and then translated up to the final output with a fixed tone. The proposed approach relies on components operating at lower frequencies for better phase noise performance, and the method is applicable to generation of higher frequencies. The proposed program will lead to a family of novel miniaturized MMIC products for commercial communications.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The products to be derived from the proposed program are commercial signal sources for applications in wireless personal communications, wireless local loops, multi-point distribution networks, and satellite communications terminals.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The products to be derived from the proposed program are commercial signal sources for applications in wireless personal communications, wireless local loops, multi-point distribution networks, and satellite communications terminals.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Remote Sensing Solutions, Inc.
P.O. Box 1092
Barnstable, MA 02630-0001
(508)362-9400

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
James R Carswell
carswell@rmss.us
P.O. Box 1092
Barnstable, MA 02630-0001
(508)362-9400

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA is committed to measuring precipitation on a global scale. In 1997, NASA launched the Tropical Rain Measuring Mission which carried the first spaceborne precipitation radar (PR). Operating at 13.8 GHz, the PR demonstrated the potential of spaceborne radars to map global precipitation. To improve rainfall estimates, the next generation system being proposed for the NASA Global Precipitation Mission is a dual-wavelength (Ku/Ka-band) precipitation radar (DPR). Operating at Ku and Ka-band, it will yield additional information on the drop size distribution (DSD). Advanced ground-based Ku/Ka-band DPR systems are needed to develop and validate the retrieval algorithms that will be used by GPM.

This proposed Phase I effort will investigate the required innovations to design and construct a novel, low-cost, scanning, dual-polarized DPR senor and sensor network. The focus will be on developing a low-cost ruggedized compact antenna, transceiver, power amplifier and real-time processing and communication subsystems. This advanced DPR sensor network will provide unprecedented spatial/temporal sampling and coverage and multiple methods to determine DSD: polarization, differential extinction, multi-look radar measurements of extinction. As a sensor network, limitations due to earth curvature, topography and ground clutter that affect the existing weather radar infrastructure can be overcome.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed novel low-cost scanning DPR sensor network system will support GPM efforts by providing an essential and unprecedented data set to validate and improve GPM retrieval algorithms and aide in calibration/validation studies. Deployed at the GPM super sites and elsewhere, it will provide direct and statistical comparisons with horizontal scanning radars, such as S-Pol, Chill and other systems, such that the new data from the DPR radars, either stand-alone or in networked configuration, can augment that of the established lower frequency radars.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed low-cost Ku/Ka-band DPR sensor and sensor network will enable many research institutions, such as universities, government and private sector research labs, to advance their efforts in the areas of precipitation studies, weather forecasting and long-term climate forecasting while fitting within their budgets. With billions of dollars being spent on weather products and forecasting, this unique and low-cost sensor network will improve local QPE measurements and forecasts. Initial market research shows a strong need for such a system and RSS plans to aggressively pursue this opportunity.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Remote Sensing Solutions, Inc.
P.O. Box 1092
Barnstable, MA 02630-0001
(508)362-9400

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
James R Carswell
carswell@rmss.us
P.O. Box 1092
Barnstable, MA 02630-0001
(508)362-9400

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA is committed to measuring clouds on a global scale and will soon launch CloudSat, which will carry the first space borne cloud-profiling radar (CPR). Operating at 94 GHz, the CPR will conduct a 2 year global survey of cloud properties, collecting quantitative information on cloud-layer thickness, base and top altitudes, cloud optical thickness, and cloud water and ice contents. A follow-on mission is envisioned that will fly a low-mass cross-track scanning antenna. This will provide future missions with much improved spatial coverage for comparison with numeric models and reduced time between subsequent measurements over the same region.

This proposed Phase I effort will investigate the required innovations to design and build a novel airborne prototype W-band (94 GHz) cross-track scanning antenna and wideband radar system. The proposed antenna will utilize a low-mass offset reflector and a frequency-scanned line-feed to achieve for the first time at W-band a cross track scan width of approximately 60 degrees. This design will lead to a prototype scanning radar system that can be flown on high-altitude platforms such as the NASA ER-2, WB-57 and Proteus. The prototype antenna will be compatible with existing space-qualified transmitters and can be scaled for space flight.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed electronically scanning W-band antenna and airborne scanning cloud radar will support various NASA research efforts by facilitating three-dimensional cloud radar coverage over a much larger domain than can be measured with existing nadir-pointing cloud radars. These data can be combined with those colleted simultaneously by scanning radiometric instruments to facilitate cloud microphysical retrievals over a large domain. Once proven these measurements can ultimately be collected on a global scale by flying the scanning radar on the next generation cloud sensing satellite.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed antenna system can be adapted for a variety of uses. Coupled with a high power transmitter and sensitive receiver it is an ideal tool for quantifying cloud properties. Such high performance radar has obvious applications for high-resolution tracking and target detection. The lightweight-scanning antenna feed may also be used in conjunction with inexpensive low power transmitters for high-resolution object detection over short distances such as in vehicle collision avoidance systems. RSS plans to aggressively pursue these opportunities

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Hittite Microwave Corp
12 Elizabeth Drive
Chelmsford, MA 01824-4147
(978)250-3343

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mitchell Shifrin
mitchs@hittite.com
12 Elizabeth Drive
Chelmsford, MA 01824-4147
(978)250-3343

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal is specifically written to address the need for improved L and P band T/R modules. The solicitation calls for investigation and development of core technologies that will significantly improve T/R module performance. Improvements needed include reduced power consumption, mass, size and increased data rates. Hittite microwave corporation is a fables semiconductor company that has been developing microwave monolithic integrated circuits (MMIC) for over 19 years. As described in this proposal Hittite will use the Phase I program to determine the optimal partitioning of the T/R module considering the subsystem requirements, process technology and circuit topologies. The T/R module circuit functions are diverse imposing several different process requirements. For example the key process specification for the LNA is the minimum noise figure (Fmin) of the process, for the control functions the switch cutoff frequency, and for the PA the power added efficiency. Relevant processes to be considered include SiGe, PHEMT, MHEMT, PIN, MEMs, GaN and SiC. Actual process selection will be determined during the Phase I effort once specifications have been fully defined in cooperation with NASA technical personnel. The Phase II program will include the design, development and fabrication of MMICs to implement an L/P band T/R module.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed program will lead to a family of MMIC-based products useful in the commercial communication bands for personal communications, W-CDMA, GPS, GSM and ISM systems operating in the frequency range of 0.4 to 1.25 GHz. Hittite expects to develop a market for low-cost MMIC products operating in those bands.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed program will lead to a family of MMIC-based products useful in the commercial communication bands for personal communications, W-CDMA, GPS, GSM and ISM systems operating in the frequency range of 0.4 to 1.25 GHz. Hittite expects to develop a market for low-cost MMIC products operating in those bands.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
SI2 Technologies, Inc.
200 Turnpike Road
Chelmsford, MA 01824-4000
(978)606-2601

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Erik S. Handy
ehandy@si2technologies.com
200 Turnpike Road
Chelmsford, MA 01824-4000
(978)606-2601

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
SI2 Technologies, Inc (SI2) proposes to develop membrane compatible transmit/receive (T/R) modules for flexible, space-deployable synthetic aperture radar (SAR) antenna arrays. Large-aperture, yet lightweight SARs are desired for many Earth science monitoring applications as they may be placed at higher orbits which offer greater coverage and shorter interferometric repeat times. However, the technology for manufacturing T/R modules on flexible membranes has limited the development of these space based arrays. SI2's innovation is to apply its laser transfer Direct Write techniques to fabricate a flexible T/R module which can be integrated with each array element. SI2's proprietary laser transfer processes will be used to "print" pre-fabricated active electronics (e.g. conventional semiconductor devices such as amplifiers, switches, etc.) on large area, flexible substrates directly from off-the-shelf wafers. The result of the proposed effort will be a demonstrated pathway for manufacturing T/R modules on flexible substrates which will further the development of lightweight, large-aperture, electronically-steerable space based radar arrays.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed technology will advance the state-of-the-art in large-aperture, electronically steerable, space-based radar arrays which are required by future NASA Earth science monitoring missions. In order to reduce the cost of such systems, membrane antennas are being developed due to their lower weight and storage volumes compared to rigid systems. Conventional transmit/receive (T/R) modules are not compatible with membrane antenna technology due to their rigid packaging. The proposed effort will develop flexible T/R modules to meet this need. Specific NASA applications of a large-aperture space-based radar system include monitoring geophysical processes such as seismic activity, volcanism and glacial flow.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
In addition to NASA missions, large-aperture, electronically steerable, space-based radar arrays are required for a number DoD applications as well where greater resolution and real-time data are desired. Non-government applications of the technology are vast and range from electronic textile products to flexible displays and radio frequency identification (RFID) tags.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
MicroLink Devices
6457 Howard Street
Niles, IL 60714-2232
(847)588-3001

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Noren Pan
noren_pan@mindspring.com
6457 Howard Street
Niles, IL 60714-2232
(847)588-3001

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
High-speed devices using InP play a critical role in the realization of power amplifiers for wireless and optical communication systems. Current gain cut-off frequencies in excess of 200 GHz have been demonstrated for InP HBTs, indicating the potential of these devices for use in high bandwidth communication systems and high-speed direct digital synthesizers. To achieve a higher output power and higher efficiency, InP HBT based on GaAsSb base layer is proposed in this research effort. This novel material technology offers the highest potential to achieve the highest output power and efficiency at W-band. We would like to achieve at least 1W of output power at W-band with at least an efficiency of 40%.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
InP based HBT technology is a platform technology that can be used
for MMIC applications from X-band to W-Band. It offers the highest
output power and efficiency at these frequency ranges. There is no
other technology that can offer this type of performance

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
InP based HBT has the potential to migrate to lower frequencies such
as L and S-band. The potential exist for these amplifiers to be applied
to cellular applications which would significantly increase the volume
requirement.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
WaveBand Corporation
17152 Armstrong Ave
Irvine, CA 92614-5718
(949)253-4019

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Vladimir Litvinov
vlitvinov@waveband.com
17152 Armstrong Ave
Irvine, CA 92614-5718
(949)253-4019

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
WaveBand Corporation in collaboration with Virginia Commonwealth University proposes to design and fabricate a new sub-millimeter source based on an InAlGaN superlattice (SL). Semiconductor SLs have proven their ability to deliver high-frequency current oscillations caused by specific electron dynamics in a narrow miniband. For this project, WaveBand proposes to demonstrate SLs based on one of the GaN-family materials that deliver high temperature and high power operation superior to those provided by conventional III-V materials based on GaAs and InAs alloys. The idea of Bloch oscillators has been around for a while, yet actual example has not been demonstrated. The reason is that dc-current instability prevents oscillations at high frequency. The innovation of the proposed work is that we plan to use short-period SLs with complex miniband electron energy dispersion that suppresses the dc-instability and allows electrons to oscillate at multiples of the fundamental Bloch frequency. MBE-growth of short-period SLs will be performed using formation of spontaneous superlattices from an immiscible composition.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Proposed source may serve as a compact local oscillator in a heterodyne receiver integrated system.
The innovation will benefit measurements testing the Earth's atmosphere: climate and meteorological parameters, including water vapor, clouds, aerosols; air pollution; and chemical constituents such as ozone and carbon monoxide. The device will be responsive to NASA needs for Advanced Communication Technologies for Near-Earth Missions where wide bandgap III-Nitride devices are sought for high-power high-efficiency solid state power amplifiers and integration of electronic devices with optoelectronic components on III-Nitride templates.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Solid-state terahertz-range sources are urgently needed in various applications including sensors for detection and analysis of hazardous chemical and biological agents, and sub-millimeter wave imaging systems for concealed weapons detection and spectroscopy,

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Physical Sciences Inc
20 New England Business Ctr
Andover, MA 01810-1077
(978)689-0003

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Joel M. Hensley
hensley@psicorp.com
20 New England Business Ctr
Andover, MA 01810-1077
(978)689-0003

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Scientists at JPL measure radiation emitted in the far-infrared (or terahertz) region of the spectrum to study the history of the universe and the Earth's atmosphere. The most commonly used detection technique is frequency mixing between that emission and a local oscillator operating at a frequency close to the emission line. The local oscillators available today, such as optically pumped terahertz lasers or frequency-multiplied millimeter-wave sources, suffer from a number of shortcomings including limited tuning range, inadequate wavelength coverage, large size, and low wallplug efficiency. Physical Sciences Inc. has recently demonstrated a novel, tunable THz laser source based on an external cavity stabilized THz Quantum Cascade Laser with discontinuous tuning over a 30 GHz band at 147 wavenumbers. In the proposed Phase I program, we will use an available 158 wavenumber THz QCL to optimize the external cavity design for continuous, mode-hop free tuning over an expected range of 100 GHz with a target laser linewidth below 1 MHz. Such a laser has never been previously demonstrated. During Phase II we will prove practicality by optimizing the properties of the laser, packaging it into a form suitable for terahertz emission experiments, and delivering it to JPL.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
By using the laser source developed under this project as a local oscillator, JPL scientists will be able to measure terahertz emission from at least one new target species of importance to astronomy or atmospheric science. Future versions of this laser source will be tailored to match other target species, until the entire terahertz region of the spectrum has been covered. As a result, the JPL scientists will develop a better understanding of the evolution of the universe. In addition, they will learn more about problems with Earth's atmosphere, including global warming, ozone destruction, and pollution.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Compact, tunable terahertz lasers will be useful for container-penetrating detection of dangerous substances for homeland defense applications, detecting contraband substances for law enforcement applications, and detecting trace amounts of moisture for industrial process control.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mesoscopic Devices LLC
510 Compton Street, Suite 106
Broomfield, CO 80020-1651
(303)466-6968

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jerry L Martin
jmartin@mesoscopic.com
510 Compton Street, Suite 106
Broomfield, CO 80020-1651
(303)466-6968

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Advanced instruments used for earth science missions require improved cooling systems to remove heat from high power electronic components and maintain tight temperature control for sensitive instruments. Mesoscopic Devices proposes to develop a pumped two-phase cooling loop that will provide high heat flux cooling (> 100 W/cm^2) in a lightweight system. In Phase I, an extremely compact pump optimized for two phase cooling will be demonstrated, along with advanced lightweight cold plates. A complete two-phase loop using the advanced pump and cold plates will be constructed and tested.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed two-phase pumped loop will enable cooling of multiple distributed loads, decreasing the mass and increasing the sensitivity of advanced instruments for terrestrial, aircraft, balloon and satellite missions. It can be used for cooling instruments, high power electronics, radar and laser systems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Two-phase pumped cooling loops are expected to be enabling technology for high-power motor drives, rack-mount computers, advanced workstations, and microwave systems for vacuum deposition. The proposed system could be adapted for cooling phased-array radars, communications and industrial lasers.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Power Electronics Leveling Solutions L.L.C.
607 Gray Avenue
Fayetteville, AR 72701-3037
(479)444-8377

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jeremy Junghans
pels_llc@yahoo.com
607 Gray Ave.
Fayetteville, AR 72701-3037
(479)444-8377

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This NASA SBIR project will develop modular spray-cooled assemblies that satisfy NASA power and mass budgets and can be scaled to cool multiple heat sources subjected to high heat fluxes and microgravity conditions. Much of the work on spray cooling has been experimental in nature and technological improvements have been the result of extensive experimental work. There is a need for a better theoretical understanding. Power Electronics Leveling Solutions L.L.C. (PELS) analytical team has formulated mathematically the conditions for extracting high heat fluxes from a heated surface in addition to the latent heat of vaporization that takes place in the formation of the bubble under phase change. PELS has now the opportunity of combining its analytical and experimental capabilities to develop modular assemblies based on spray cooling with the goal of achieving heat fluxes in excess of 100 W/cm2 while satisfying power and mass budgets.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The technology developed in this project has numerous potential NASA applications which can be broadly classified into the following two groups:
(1) Power amplifiers for T/R modules and transmitters.
(2) Modular microwave integrated circuits.
(3) Power lasers.
(4) Power modules for energy storage, flywheels, battery chargers, peak power trackers, motor drives, and smart solid-state switches

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The above applications are not limited to NASA since thermal loads having heat fluxes are found in many military and commercial applications. For example, the ambient temperature under the hood in an automobile could be in excess of 100 degrees C. Silicon-based automotive electronics have maximum junction temperatures such that traditional cooling systems like heat sinks and cold plate are not suitable. Even if they were suitable, the power densities of these systems are impractical for automotive applications. Therefore, systems relying on spray cooling will find many military and commercial applications (e.g., radar systems, dc-dc converters, power supplies).

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
XC Associates, inc
347 NY Rte 43
stephentown, NY 12168-0099
(518)733-0187

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
john bootle
bootle@xcassociates.com
347 NY Rte 43
stephentown, NY 12168-0099
(518)733-0187

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
XC Associates proposes to build on prior work to develop and characterize a very high efficiency, lightweight radiator constructed from high thermal conductivity carbon fibers. The radiator will be suitable for use on instruments carried by future spacecraft. The phase I effort will address the thermal performance and size limitations of the composite design. Since cryogenic applications are becoming more common the thermal characteristics of the radiator will be measured down to 45K. Modern spacecraft thermal control needs to be low mass and low cost. Composite thermal radiators will realize a greater than 60% weight saving compared to aluminum and the costs can be addressed by the use of standard technology that can be easily applied to new designs. The major innovation to be demonstrated by this project is the use of highly orientated fibers that completely eliminates the low through thickness thermal conductivity normally associated with traditional carbon fiber laminates. This highly oriented lay-up also allows the thickness of the radiator to be tapered down to less than 0.020" while retaining very high stiffness. Therefore, the radiator is much thinner than the equivalent aluminum radiator, which combined with lower density of composite construction, accounts for the significant weight reduction.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The lightweight radiator will have direct application for cooling of instruments and spacecraft.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The lightweight radiator will have direct application for cooling of instruments and spacecraft.
The technology also has significance for thermal management of missiles and radar systems

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Nanocomposix, Inc.
4326 Proctor Pl.
San Diego, CA 92116-1060
(619)890-0704

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Steven Oldenburg
Steven.Oldenburg@nanocomposix.com
4326 Proctor Pl.
San Diego, CA 92116-1060
(619)890-0704

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Future NASA instrumentation will require increasingly sophisticated thermal control technology. We propose a next-generation nanofluid that consists of precisely manufactured nanoparticles that are added to existing coolant liquids. Even at very low loading levels, the nanoparticles dramatically increase the thermal conductivity and the critical heat flux of the fluid. Due to their small size, settling, abrasion, and clogging issues are eliminated, enabling the nanofluid to be immediately incorporated into existing thermal management systems.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
For instrumentation that requires tight temperature control, a highly conductive fluid will allow for more efficient and even heat transfer from the fluid to the instrument. Liquid cooling systems that have both high heat capacity and high thermal conductivity will allow for precise temperature control of high heat flux applications. The nanofluids will also reduce the quantity of required coolant resulting in a weight reduction of ground and space based instrumentation.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The nanoparticles will be prepared as an additive that will provide large performance increases in critical heat flux cooling applications without requiring any process or tooling modifications. The nanofluid will also improve the thermal performance of miniaturized heat transport devices that are designed for applications such as cooling small sensors and devices.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
LW Microsystem, Inc
37466 Stonewood Dr.
Fremont, CA 94536-6652
(510)209-7469

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Yin Liu
yinliu@lwmicrosystems.com
37466 Stonewood Dr.
Fremont, CA 94536-6652
(510)209-7469

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal is submitted for research on using MEMS technology to make unique, highly reliable, miniaturized capillary pumped coolers in the application of Thermal Control for Instruments (subtopic: E1.07). The proposed miniaturized thermal-cooler can be fabricated on Si wafer or directly on the back of the IC circuits. The proposed micro-cooler potentially has high mechanical reliability. The proposed micro-cooler has its own coolant supply and needs no extra coolant reservoir and supply.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Small size, low cost micro-cooler can be implemented in any high power IC to control the temperature in NASA and general applications. It can also be used in other equipment that requires operated at low temperatures, such as micro-laser generators, etc.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Small size, low cost micro-cooler has a huge application market. It can be applied at all the micro-processors in PCs to enhance the performance. The potential market can be over billion dollars. Currently, there is no similar product in the market.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
SIWAVE, INC.
400 E. Live Oak Avenue
Arcadia, CA 91006-5619
(626)821-0570

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Kumaraswamy Jayaraj
k.jayaraj@siwaveinc.com
400 E. Live Oak Avenue
Arcadia, CA 91006-5619
(626)821-0570

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Micro-electro-mechanical System (MEMS)-based gyroscopes, accelerometers and rate sensors are essential to miniaturizing the guidance, navigation and control electronics of satellite systems. Wafer level packaging is the preferred method of sealing MEMS devices to achieve low cost. However, devices are currently housed in expensive hermetic packages. In the case of gyros, high vacuum levels need to be created and maintained to achieve high Q values. Current hybrid hermetic packages are expensive, heavy and bulky. Although there is considerable activity in developing wafer level sealing techniques, there is currently no universal approach to seal MEMS devices at the wafer level. SiWave proposes to develop a universal wafer level sealing technology that: does not require processing of the device wafer, achieves room temperature sealing enabling encapsulation of sensitive devices and provides for an evaporable getter to maintain a high vacuum over the life of the package. SiWave will package a very high accuracy, absolute pressure sensor to demonstrate the concept as well as to quantify the effectiveness of the proposed approach. Once sealed at the wafer level, the device can be singulated and packaged using conventional plastic packaging techniques or housed in a low cost, plastic enclosure depending on the application.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This development will allow the realization of low cost, miniaturized GN&C sensors for microsats and conventional satellites. Commercial and space satellite systems requires many sensors for GN&C and packaging remains the last hurdle in benefiting from the numerous technical advancements in the sensor technology. This program will eliminate this hurdle.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
With the explosion of wireless medications across the globe, the need for RF devices such as T/R modules, SAWs, and MEMS RF switches is escalating as never before. The technology proposed here will provide high-performance hermetic encapsulation of the devices at the low costs achieved through batch processing and wafer level packaging.
Applications include wireless pressure sensors for the automotive industry, SAWs for cell phone, RF Datacom, and radio communications, and optical communications. Also, it is estimated that the inertial sensor market is around $0.7-1.4 Billion/year, pressure sensor market is about $1-2.5 Billion/year and market for other sensors around $1.2-2.5 Billion/year.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
BROADATA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
2545 W. 237th St., Suite K
Torrance, CA 90505-5229
(310)530-1416

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Matheos Kazantzidis
alewis@broadatacom.com
2545 W. 237th St., Suite K
Torrance, CA 90505-5229
(310)530-1416

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA requires innovative guidance, navigation and control (GN&C) technology that addresses the high performance, reliability, power and volume requirements of future Earth Science (ES) missions. Specifically, ES architectures will include platforms of varying size and complexity in a number of mission trajectories and orbits. Novel approaches for autonomous control of large fleets of spacecraft, rockets, balloons and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are desired. Special interest is apportioned to augmenting and providing alternatives to GN&C, relative range and attitude determination during close formation, and proximity operations using video image processing technology. Broadata Communications, Inc. (BCI) proposes a novel vision-based attitude determination and relative range GN&C system called Guiding Stars, Sun and Light (GSSL). It is based on an innovative, real-time, video image, point distance set based, recognition technology that works well with the problem at hand.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed technology is designed for spacecraft attitude determination, relative ranging and on-board GPS validation. Due to its interoperable design it has a wide commercialization potential. Other direct NASA applications include instrument pointing and and stabilization, the Microsat attitude determination problem, spin and three-axis stabilization in Microsats, miniature spacecrafts, orbit determination, formation flying, pointing control and GN&C for stratospheric balloons, autonomous navigation of UAVs, and groups of UAVs. The video and imaging based recognition technology presented can further be used off-line in a non-real-time fashion. As such, it can perform post-processing of available imaging and image/video querying based on content. The location of the camera of the image and/or image content can be automatically determined and queried. Queries using specific Guides can be performed allowing for scientific, learning, and entertainment applications that promote NASA missions.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Non-NASA commercial applications include both the technology's real-time and non-real-time capabilities. The former includes, GN&C automated systems toys, robotics and advertising, security, mapping, or photography blimps. The latter includes, content based image search and warehousing, high volume automated location or timing recognition in photography used by real estate agencies, filming scouting, state attractions (e.g., find pictures and photos that contained the Twin Towers on the Internet), police investigations based on video/image/camera location, etc.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
BROADATA COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
2545 W. 237th St., Suite K
Torrance, CA 90505-5229
(310)530-1416

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Matheos Kazantzidis
alewis@broadatacom.com
2545 W. 237th St., Suite K
Torrance, CA 90505-5229
(310)530-1416

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA requires protocols and architectures that will allow reduced levels of mission funding, shorter mission development schedules, and facilitate high availability of flight electronic components. The administration is strategically moving towards Internet based architectures and technologies. Internet protocols, however, are not designed for space communications and must be seamlessly adapted to support the characteristics of this environment. We are proposing the development of a Universal Space IP Transparent Proxy that leverages an innovative modular architecture to achieve accurate network monitoring and measurement as a means to effectively deal with design and performance problems of IP protocols in space environments.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The USIT system, once deployed, will allow NASA to plan missions with reduced levels of funding through the use of technology developed for common widespread Internet. It is not only applicable to Command and Data Handling for ES missions, but generically supports IP use in NASA missions. Besides near-earth, space, and deep space communications, it is directly applicable to general purpose satellite communications, specifically networks that are characterized by "Long Fat Pipes" (LFNs) or narrow bandwidth, long propagation, RF telecommunications systems. It can be used to direct the use or Error Control and Compression in an on/off board system. Due to its support for reproducible experimentation it has direct commercialization potential as a sophisticated emulation platform for NASA research and development.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Many non-NASA applications and markets exist that have similar characteristics and requirements for USIT. Potential applications include wireless Internet access networks, especially satellite, Internet Service Provider performance management of backup links (that usually employ wireless technology), Mobile Enterprise Networking (for example, construction and real-estate industry), packet cellular networks, etc. The modularity of the USIT design allows the product to enhance performance in different types of access networks including 802.11, fiber optics, Ethernet, Bluetooth Scatternets, etc. The USIT system can also be used as a tool for research and development in universities and companies.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
CompSys Technologies Inc.
435 Creekside Drive
Amherst, NY 14228-2112
(716)564-0881

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Sumita Mishra
mishra@compsystech.com
435 Creekside Drive
Amherst, NY 14228-2112
(716)564-0881

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA's vision of data exchange between space and ground nodes would involve the space network accessing public infrastructure such as the internet. Hence, advanced security measures have to be developed to ensure information integrity and authentication.
The proposed innovations in this work are 1) A hierachical security model, where each level has a different security requirement and varying capabilities (such as power and ad hoc measure), 2) An adaptive key management protocol suite that would cater to the security needs of the network at the various levels, and 3) A novel key management scheme that uses threshold cryptography and group key management concepts.

The significance of our approach is to provide a key management solution that provides strong authentication and data integrity, a solution that is flexible and can be adapted according to different security requirements and capabilities of the network and a scheme that considers the performance capabilities of the participating nodes and provides solutions accordingly.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
In order to realize NASA's vision of Sensor-Web entailing a host of in-space and terrestrial communication links, enhanced network protocols and technologies are desired. Hence the developed authentication and data integrity methodology will be highly applicable to future NASA networks that would support secure communication among NASA spacecraft, commercial GEO networks and the ground systems. The proposed methodology will ensure authenticated data transfer between the public domain (Internet) and space-based networks. It will also satisfy the goals and objectives of NASA's Space Communications project, particularly for Proximity Wireless networks that aim to develop "energy-efficient, reliable, miniaturized, integrated wireless network technologies to enable robotic missions on planetary surfaces and in-space vehicles."

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Wireless handheld devices are in use in several commercial applications including office buildings, universities and industrial plants. However, secure communication is one of the primary limitations of current commercial/military wireless networks. Current IEEE standards and solutions are inadequate as far as Information Assurance is concerned.

Hence, the proposed authentication and key management solution is attractive for NASA as well as the private sector because it provides a unique methodology that ensures secure transmission of data between the nodes of any wireless network. It can be easily extended for mobile environments that include both wired and wireless segments based on varying commercial standards. With the availability of secure wireless access, organizations can provide wireless access to their servers outside their firewalls and buidings.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Cornerstone Research Group Inc
2750 Indian Ripple Road
Dayton, OH 45440-3325
(937)320-1877

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Stephen D Vining
viningsd@crgrp.net
2750 Indian Ripple Road
Dayton, OH 45440-3325
(937)320-1877

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Cornerstone Research Group inc. (CRG) proposes to demonstrate the feasibility of a lightweight, deployable Veritex ^TM supporting annulus structure to support large radio frequency (RF) antennas. Veritex^TM composites are similar to other high-performance composites, with the exception that CRG's shape memory polymer (SMP) resin, Veriflex^TM, is used as the matrix resin. This allows for easy manipulation of the composite above the activation temperature, making it a unique material for use in dynamic structures and other applications requiring both load strength and "shape-shifting" modulus flexibility. In this Phase I program, CRG will develop and evaluate materials and related fabrication technologies based on Veritex^TM, and develop a deployment scheme with built-in redundancy. This technical approach fulfills NASA's requirement for a very large, lightweight, on-orbit deployable RF antenna aperture structure by offering a practical, deployable, structural support that will address the short comings of current rigidized inflatable structures.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Supporting NASA's Earth Science Enterprise, this project's technologies directly address requirements for inexpensive, lightweight, highly compact launch configurations, and reliable precise deployment for thin-film space-based RF antennas.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This project's technologies developed for NASA systems would directly apply to systems operated by other government and commercial enterprises.
Government systems that would derive the same benefits would include but not be limited to space-based sensor and communication systems operated by Department of Defense.
This technology's attributes for deployable antennas should yield a high potential for private sector commercialization for RF applications by Ball Aerospace and Technologies has documented their interest in this commercialization opportunity (see letter of support on page 25).
Deployable Veritex(TM)tubes may also be useful for terrestrial structures in disaster areas such as shelters and bridges.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Space Micro Inc.
12872 Glen Circle Road
Poway, CA 92064-2029
(858)487-9295

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Peter Nolan
pnolan@spacemicro.com
9765A Clairemont Mesa Blvd
San Diego, CA 92124-3443
(858)309-7000

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Space Micro Inc. proposes to develop an innovative Turbo-Coded Orthogonal Frequency Division Modulation (TC-OFDM) ASIC device. The proposed device provides data transmission at very high data rates (1 ? 10 Gbps), with high bandwidth efficiency (up to 8 bps/Hz), and with excellent bit error rate (BER) performance at signal-to-noise ratios approaching Shannon's theoretical channel capacity limit. The TC-OFDM modulator is programmable so that a single ASIC device can support a wide variety of communication links, with different data rates, FEC code rates, and RF channel bandwidths. The modulator also supports dynamic adaptation of FEC code rate and modulation during operation, to maximize data transmission in systems with time-varying communication link conditions. The proposed TC-OFDM modulator is radiation hardened for operation on spacecraft and high altitude airborne platforms. The end result of the proposed SBIR program is innovative TC-OFDM communication link technology and components that will enable greatly increased data transmission rates from space-to-space and space-to-ground, to meet the needs of future NASA earth science missions.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed TC-OFDM modulation scheme will increase the data transmission capacity for NASA's near-earth missions by more than a factor of 10 as compared to existing systems. The TC-OFDM modulator device that is developed under this SBIR program can be used directly on a variety of future NASA Earth Science platforms, including the next generation TDRSS spacecraft, LEO/MEO earth science satellites, and high altitude airborne platforms such as drones and balloons, as well as manned aircraft.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The technology developed under this SBIR is directly applicable to other commercial systems, including: very high data rate telemetry systems (both line-of-sight and space-based), line-of-sight microwave links for telecommunications, and foreign government space systems. There are also non-NASA applications in the U.S. Government DoD, including the transformational satellite (TSAT) RF downlinks, and data transmission from other reconnaisance satellites and aircraft.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Eltron Research Inc
4600 Nautilus Court South
Boulder, CO 80301-3241
(303)530-0263

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
James H. White
eltron@eltronresearch.com
4600 Nautilus Court South
Boulder, CO 80301-3241
(303)530-0263

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposed Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) Phase I addresses the development of advanced gel propellants and determination of their suitability for selected applications. Currently, propellant gels consist of fuel (or oxidizer) combined with a polymeric gellant such as a cellulose derivative and suspended aluminum (or silica) particles. However, higher specific impulse and density specific impulse, more efficient (i.e., finer) spray formation, and reduced pumping requirements are desired so that formulations incorporating combustible particulate species (solid additive and particulate gellant, which, ideally would be the same) are sought. Phase I will consider a matrix of formulations drawn from various highly combustible solid nanoparticulate species and additives. Properties (density and Isp) of various formulations will be calculated. Formulations with the desired calculated Isp will be prepared and measurements of surface tension between various system components performed. Rheological properties of the resulting gels will be measured and the flow and spray characteristics of candidate formulations evaluated. Finally, initial testing of preferred gel systems arising from Phase I will be conducted. Phase II will consist of extensive testing of preferred propellant formulations and determination of their suitability for various applications.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Successful completion of the proposed program will lead to formulation and characterization of advanced gel propellants for a number of applications, including those for thrust and maneuvering. The technology will enhance Isp, increase density, and reduce sloshing in a variety of liquid propellants. Application to toxic propellants will reduce safety and environmental concerns as well.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The technology would attract interest from companies involved in fuel and propulsion manufacture. Additionally, the use of nanoparticles in other applications such as fluid properties modification are conceivable. The use of the propellants in APUs for aircraft or ballast blowing in ships are other potential applications.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
PHYSICAL OPTICS CORPORATION
20600 Gramercy Place, Building 100
Torrance, CA 90501-1821
(310)320-3088

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Michael Gertsenshteyn
sutama@poc.com
20600 Gramercy Place, Building 100
Torrance, CA 90501-1821
(310)320-3088

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
To address the NASA need for innovative, advanced, high-precision micropropulsion technologies to increase the operational capabilities and reduce the cost of Earth Science under-10-kg spacecraft for long-life missions, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new Silicon Digital Propulsion (SIDIP) system. SIDIP will be inexpensive and power efficient, with minimal mass, and will deliver digitally controlled, high-precision attitude control and in-space maneuvering through micropulses of regulated duration and frequency. The SIDIP system is based on two key innovations: development of a novel, MEMS-based periodic structure of subminiature microthrusters; and unique implementation of the microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology that POC has developed for processing Si wafers for precise micromachining of the hundreds (or more) of subminiature field emission electric microthrusters on a 1 in. x 1 in. Si microthruster plate (MTP). SIDIP will remarkably increase the precision of in-space maneuvering, and improve attitude and orbit control. NASA Earth Science missions will benefit from SIDIP, especially for miniatusre satellites in a cluster or constellation. In Phase I POC will optimize the SIDIP system geometry, develop technology for micromachining silicon MTPs, and demonstrate technologies for fabricating pyrimids and oxidizing matrix channels. In Phase II POC will demonstrate an engineering prototype SIDIP.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
POC's Silicon Digital Propulsion system will have a wide range of NASA Earth Science applications. It will support many drag-free Earth Observation Missions, which require ultraprecise attitude control, and will, for example, maintain submicron accuracy in relative position of separated elements of a large-array optical telescope. SIDIP technology will also find wide application in satellite electrical potential control and mass spectrometry.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
In addition to nanosat control, the SIDIP system will have applications in ion lithography, and in ion sources for nanofabrication; protein mass spectrometry; and nuclear research. POC's initial market research indicates that the SIDIP system will have a particularly high commercial potential as an innovative technology for large-format field-emission devices; for large plasma TV screens, especially, it will reduce manufacturing cost, operating voltage, and power consumption, and will increase the brightness and resolution of the screens.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Material Methods, LLC
3720 Campus Drive, Suite C
Newport Beach, CA 92660-2677
(949)474-4487

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Alexander A Gorkovenko
agorkovenko@materialmethods.com
3720 Campus Drive, Ste B/C
Newport Beach, CA 92660-2677
(949)474-4487

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Summary
Lithium-ion battery technology will not provide significant breakthroughs beyond 200 Wh/kg. It will not provide adequate specific energy and cycle life for Earth Science missions. It will not enable the United States to reestablish its position of strategic technical advantage in portable energy storage. However, the next generation of secondary Li batteries is being developed in the US. It is based on lithium metal anodes and sulfur containing liquid cathodes. The sulfur-based cathode delivers a theoretical specific energy of 2450 Wh/kg, more than any other known cathode material of secondary cell. The Li-S battery needs advanced technology for improved stabilization of the Li anode in the corrosive environment of the liquid sulfur cathode. We propose a novel application of modern rocket fuel chemistry to create a self-healing, solid-electrolyte interface (SEI) layer. Li-S cells equipped with this robust passivation will stably perform at 400 Wh/kg level for ~ 300 cycles. At 200 Wh/kg a cycle life of ~ 1000 cycles is expected. The good low temperature performance and excellent rate capability features of Li-S cell will remain intact. These features are the next leap toward the advanced energy storage technologies required for Earth science observation platforms.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Advanced energy storage technologies for Earth science observation platforms that include traditional spacecraft, airborne platforms, such as piloted and unpiloted aircraft and balloons, terrestrial platforms, micro-spacecraft, and surface penetrators.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Li/S will replace Li/Ion in majority of commercial applications requiring portable energy sources, such as cell phones, laptops and pen tabs computers, camcorders, digital cameras. Since rate capability of Li/S cell (liquid cathode versions) is much higher than LiIon and is comparable with aqueous electrolyte systems, it will also penetrate high rate applications markets such as power tools. Aqueous electrolyte-based batteries, such as Ni/Cd and Ni/MeH, currently dominate power tools market. It is expected that the developed Li/S technology will penetrate this market. In this case one Li/S battery will be replacing four (by weight basis) counterparts.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
ITN Energy Systems, Inc.
8130 Shaffer Parkway
Littleton, CO 80127-4107
(303)285-5111

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Lawrence Woods
lwoods@itnes.com
8130 Shaffer Parkway
Littleton, CO 80127-4107
(303)285-5135

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
ITN Energy Systems (ITN) proposes to take the next step in spacecraft solar array development, building upon previous development and new findings to make the definitive light-absorber layer for high-power, lightweight and flexible thin-film photovoltaics (TFPV). ITN's innovative approach is to alloy CuInSe2 (CIS) with both aluminum and gallium bandgap widening elements in the chalcopyrite matrix to form CuInGaAlSe2 (CIGAS) for simultaneous optimization of the bandgap and material properties. Both Ga and Al will be used to take advantage of the alloy enhancing properties that each offers when used in moderation, while avoiding the detrimental issues when using too much of any one element to achieve the optimum bandgap of about 1.45 eV for a single-junction in the space solar spectrum. Furthermore, a recently available novel lightweight, flexible and transparent substrate will be used that was specifically designed to enable high-temperature CIGAS depositions as needed for the highest efficiency TFPV. TFPV specific power of over 1500 W/kg at the blanket/module level would be achievable The novel transparent substrates would also enable additional power from bifacial visible light collection and lower temperature operation, from improved infra-red (IR) transmission, in addition to enabling TFPV fabrication by low-cost roll-to-roll processing.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
ITN's proposed technology, potentially decreasing the weight of spacecraft solar power by 75%, would have broad impact on NASA spacecraft weight and launch costs. NASA applications would also benefit from a wide-bandgap PV device, as proposed, for better thermal stability, better temperature coefficients, and higher-voltage solar arrays. Furthermore, the high specific power (W/kg) and ability of the proposed TFPV to be integrated into the balloon, high-altitude airship (HAA) or tent fabric, would enable balloon or HAA applications, in addition to modular and quick deploying tents for surface assets or lunar or Mars base power. The high specific power and power density would also enable Earth and Mars unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) applications.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Two of the most important, near-term markets for high-efficiency flexible lightweight photovoltaics are spacecraft and aerostats/high-altitude airships (HAA). The target customers for this market are aerospace companies, defense, and communications industries. The largest market is in the evolving HAA industry, but there is also an opportunity in the well-established satellite community. Market projections indicate that approximately 16.5 MW of flexible thin film PV power will to be launched for HAA's, and 1.0 MW of space PV power will be launched between 2007 and 2011. In the long term, as the costs eventually come down with manufacturing process improvements and economies of scale, the PV space/HAA product technology can be leveraged for the implementation of the low-cost monolithic tandem PV terrestrial product. The terrestrial PV market is projected to be a $163 ? 302 M (min and max estimates) per year market by 2010 for thin-film technologies in North America alone, with a compound annual growth rate between 16.1% and 32.3%.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Sest, Inc.
18000 Jefferson Park, Suite 104
Middleburg Heights, OH 44130-3440
(440)234-9173

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
L. Barry Penswick
lbpenswick@ameritech.net
18000 Jefferson Park
Suite 104, OH 44130-3440
(440)234-9173

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Sest, Inc. proposes to perform a detailed evaluation at the both convertor and component levels of a small, low electrical output power (50 to 500 mW) Stirling cycle based convertor utilizing light weight radioisotope heater units (LWRHU) as the heat source. The proposed milliwatt radioisotope Stirling convertor (MRSC) will be optimized for output power with source temperatures in the range of 480 to 560 oK so as to provide electric power at convertor efficiencies in the range of 15 to 20% and sized to make maximum use of the existing LWRHU heat source. These efficiency levels are on the order of 2 to 4 times those of thermoelectric conversion systems. The evaluation processes will incorporate an in-depth evaluation of the structural materials and fabrications techniques required to maximize convertor specific power while at the same time insuring high reliability and long operating life. Due to the unique operating characteristics of convertors of this size a proof of concept linear alternator will be developed and tested during Phase I. At the completion of the proposed Phase I effort a specific final configuration for the detailed hardware design and fabrication in the Phase II effort will be fully defined. In addition a scaling study will be performed identify optimal configurations over the entire power range of interest.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed low power generating system, operating at power outputs in the range of 50 to 500 mW, has a number of potential NASA and US government agency applications. It provides small, robust stand-alone power systems for sensors and communication equipment integrated into single unit. The significantly greater efficiency of the proposed system will minimize the number of LWRHU, or related, heat sources dramatically reducing system cost and minimizing environmental concerns with the use of isotope heat sources. Extremely "aggressive" environments such as high external pressures, low temperatures, and chemically active sites represent areas of use of the proposed system. Another application is the use of the proposed system as the power supply for very small satellite systems that may find wider use in the future. The simplicity of the isotope heat source combined with the proposed MRSC convertor will yield high efficiency power supplied with long maintenance free operating lives.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
While the radioisotope heat source generally is limited to space applications, the potential also exists that this type of small self contained power source could be used for terrestrial applications. While recovery of the device will be critical, applications such as underwater environmental monitoring in deep-sea areas or under ice in cold climates represents strong possibilities. In these cases the power supply would be directly coupled with the sensor package forming a compact self-contained unit.

The advent of MEMS level combustion devices may also provide a long life, combustion driven heat source that could supply the necessary thermal energy for the low power MRSC system described in the proposed work. These combustors could be based on "conventional" combustion techniques yielding source temperatures well above those provided by the LWRHU configuration or utilize less conventional techniques such as low temperature catalytic reactions providing source temperatures in line with those of the LWRHU system. Application for such devices could include environmental monitoring, metering of remote / dangerous facilities (for example gas / oil wells) where non-conventional combustion techniques may have a premium and a wide range of self powered industrial and consumer products.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Essential Research Inc
6410 Eastland Rd. Suite D
Cleveland, OH 44142-1306
(440)816-9850

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
William King
king@essential-research.com
6410 Eastland Rd. Suite D
Cleveland, OH 44142-1306
(440)816-9850

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Quantum dots are nanoscale materials that have already improved the performance of optical sensors, lasers, light emitting diodes and solar cells. The unique properties of these nanomaterials offer tremendous benefit in developing high efficiency thermophotovoltaic cells as well. Theoretical studies predict a potential efficiency of 63.2% for an array of quantum dots sandwiched between the emitter and base layers in a typical photovoltaic junction. Significant gains can also be expected in the case of thermophotovoltaic cells.

We propose an InGaAs TPV cell which incorporates InAs quantum dots to provide sub-gap absorption and thus improve the short-circuit current. This cell could then be integrated into a MIM to achieve a TPV cell whose efficiency would significantly exceed (by about 15% to 20%) current SOA standards. These TPV cells can be used for deep space missions, with a radioisotope thermoelectric generator (RTG) fueled by plutonium-238 as the on-board source of heat.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Quantum dots will allow NASA not only to improve device efficiency by expanding the spectral response of individual cells, but to improve the temperature coefficients and radiation tolerance as well. The inherently radiation tolerant quantum dots can be used to take advantage of thermal assist in carrier generation which will actually benefit form higher temperature operation. This is extremely important as NASA attempts to increase array specific power with new designs and continues to expand the range of environments to be encountered in future missions.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Successful completion Phase I and Phase II of the proposed work will lead to the development of radiation-resistant thermophotovoltaic cells that will deliver power beyond the realm of any thermophotovoltaic cell that is now available, or under development. Upon achieving this goal, Essential Research plans to enter into licensing arrangement with Emcore Photovoltaic to manufacture and market this product, while working with them for a successful technology transfer and continuing R&D work on the product.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
ARKANSAS POWER ELECTRONICS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
700 W Research Blvd
Fayetteville, AR 72701-7174
(479)443-5759

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Alexander B Lostetter
alostet@apei.net
700 W Research Blvd
Fayetteville, AR 72701-7174
(479)799-6578

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This Small Business of Innovation Research Phase I proposal seeks to investigate and prove the feasibility of developing highly efficient, ultra-lightweight SiC semiconductor based power electronic converters for Earth science mission vehicles. With high temperature operation of power electronics components, heatsinking and active cooling thermal management strategies can be significantly downgraded; thus reducing the size, volume, and weight of the overall power electronic systems by as much as an order of magnitude. This would translate directly to savings in space launch costs and in improving vehicle payload capacity. SiC power devices have a theoretical junction temperature operational limit of over 600 ^oC, and with the recent advancement of these devices, high efficiency ultra-lightweight power electronics system will become a reality within the next 5 years. SiC power devices also offer other improved performance characteristics over their silicon counterparts, including 10? the blocking voltages, 10? the power densities, reduced switching losses, and improved switching frequencies up into the 10s of GHz range. Modularizing these SiC power converters for easy utilization in all facets of NASA vehicular power management and distribution applications would provide the potential for substantial financial savings, improved reliability, and improved performance.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The development of ultra-lightweight SiC power converters would find application in a number of NASA orbital, aerospace, marine, and deep space missions. These converters would offer volume, weight, and performance benefits for energy conversion power systems, including; solar arrays, fuel cell or battery banks, nuclear powered cores, or other power sources. The same technology could be used in a wide range of other power electronics systems as well, including DC actuator/motor drives for vehicle or spacecraft appendages, AC motor drives, and power distribution/protection systems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The ability to operate at high temperatures and high power densities makes the SiC technology attractive for deep earth petroleum exploration equipment, military motor drive applications (such as for hybrid-electric combat vehicles), commercial fuel cell power converters, or upgrades to the national power grid. Longer term applications would be driven by reduced costs, where it is envisioned the technology will dominate the industrial machines motor drive markets with high efficiency, high power density, motor integrated solutions. Baldor Motors, one of the world's leading manufacturers of electric motors and drives, has shown great interest in the potential of this technology for the commercial market-place, and has provided a letter of support.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
T/J Technologies Inc
P.O. Box 2150
Ann Arbor, MI 48106-2150
(734)213-1637

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Junqing Ma
jma@tjtechnologies.com
3850 Research Park Drive Suite A
Ann Arbor, MI 48108-2240
(734)213-1637

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
NASA's future space science missions cannot be realized without the state of the art high temperature insulation materials of which higher working temperature, high reliability, and low cost are highly desired. T/J Technologies proposes to develop a high temperature, durable, readily processable electrical insulation materials. The key element of our approach is the development and demonstration, in a breadboard configuration, the feasibility of a new high temperature polymeric composite material based on organic-inorganic nanocomposites with tailored structure and composition that will dramatically increase the Glass Transition Temperature and working temperature of the host polymer, polyimides. Future work of this proposed research, during phase II, will be mainly focused on developing all the associated technologies. The development of high working temperature, durable, radiation resistant electrical insulation materials is important for on-board propulsion and power systems for manned and unmanned deep space missions within NASA as well as electrical and microelectronic industries for applications such as capacitors, electric motors, circuit-printing films, semiconductor coating, etc.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
For this program, we are seeking to directly address the market needs of NASA for high temperature insulation materials that are durable for soft x-ray, electron, proton, and ultraviolet radiation and thermal cycling environments, lightweight electromagnetic interference shielding, and high-performance, environmentally durable thermal control surfaces. Based on the unique nano-reinforcement mechanism, the proposed high temperature insulation material will possess superior thermal mechanical properties and will meet all the requirements for NASA's manned and unmanned deep space missions.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed composite material may find its use in the electrical and microelectronic industries for applications such as capacitors, electric motors, circuit-printing films, semiconductor coating, etc. The proposed composite materials may also be used as a new class of high performance engineering plastics.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Inxight Software Inc
500 Macara Ave
Sunnyvale, CA 94085-2807
(408)738-6200

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Ramana Rao
rrao@inxight.com
500 Macara Ave
Sunnyvale, CA 94085-2807
(408)738-6200

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The proposal addresses the NASA's need to enable scientific discovery and the topic's requirements for: processing large volumes of data, commonly available on the Internet, into useful information; intelligent search of large, distributed data archives and data discovery through searches of heterogeneous data sets and architectures; and search agents that support the use of NASA data. A precondition for data discovery in large distributed data environments, is the accurate and consistent characterization of the data stored in the archives. To accurately and consistently characterize data requires an enterprise policy and process for tagging data with metadata. Our proposal for a Taxonomy Enabled Discovery system (TED) provides a process and technology that assists and automates the process of generating and harvesting metadata. The approach employs a highly innovative taxonomy management platform, based on a hybrid of linguistic, statistical, machine learning, and advanced visualization techniques, enhanced with NASA data, supporting open metadata standards and a grid architecture. We demonstrate the feasibility of our approach in a NASA NTRS OAI-PMH (Open Archives Initiative ? Protocol for Metadata Harvesting) environment and prototype.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Potential NASA Applications: Such a system would have broad applicability across NASA. STI (Science and Technical Information) NTRS (National Technical Report Server) network of distributed servers is the primary target. Other applications could include enhanced text mining for applications such as ASRS (Aviation Safety Reporting System), the ExpertFinder database, or the PLLS database (Public Lessons Learned System). More generally TED could enhance any application that processes and stores unstructured content, such as Web Content Management Systems, Document Management Systems, and Email Systems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Potential Non-NASA Commercial Applications: TED could provide enhanced processing of unstructured data in a wide range of enterprise systems including document management, Web content management, email, information retrieval, and knowledge management systems.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
FETCH TECHNOLOGIES
2041 Rosecrans Ave, Suite 245
El Segundo, CA 90245-4789
(310)414-9849

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Steven Minton
Minton@Fetch.com
2041 Rosecrans, Suite 245
El Segundo, CA 90245-4789
(310)414-9849

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
We propose to develop a constraint-based system for automatically integrating online, heterogeneous data sources with geospatial data produced by NASA in order to allow users to easily analyze terrestrial phenomena, such as wildfires. Current commercial technology permits only limited types of integration - usually between structured databases - in this regard. However, particularly with the emergence of the Internet, there now exist an enormous number of other online information sources that can be combined with maps, MODIS products, and other geospatial products in order to better assist human analysis. In this project we will extend an existing constraint-based data integration system that we previously developed to allow users to easily integrate online data, annotate and extend that data (to add a layer of "knowledge" on top of the raw data), and rapidly identify updates to data. This will result in a concise, rich, integrated interface that allows one to more easily and quickly analyze complicated phenomena. We intend to demonstrate the feasability of this approach in the context of a real application, wildfire management and pre-season planning.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The project will directly explore a specific application area, wildfire management and pre-season planning, where NASA products are of critical importance. The project team will collaborate with end users at the Okanogan-Winatchee National Forest, as well as with members of the Ecological Forecasting group at NASA Ames who are developing new data products relevant to wildfire prevention.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The technology described will allow online, heterogeneous data sources to be integrated with geospatial data in a customized fashion, an important capability for our existing military and government customers. In addition, this technology is critical for a new market we are exploring - situation monitoring for emergency planning and response.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
bart-massey.com LLC
17757 Schalit Way
Lake Oswego, OR 97035-5441
(503)636-0320

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Tim Menzies
tim@bart-massey.com
1965 SE 23RD AVE
Portland, OR 97214-3957
(503)231-5277

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Quality vehicle health management systems are critical to the successful operation of modern sounding rockets, and other unmanned vehicles. Unfortunately, the software of these systems tends to be complex and rigid and thus expensive and failure-prone, especially given the several real-time constraints of rocketry. We propose to develop the ``Magic Bullet'' Adaptive Intelligent Vehicle Health Management (AIVHM) System, a novel adaptive control system for sounding rockets based on the technologies of treatment learning and Bayes classification. This system will be able to derive an appropriate control strategy for a vehicle in the event of partial system failure. Our relationship with the Portland State Aerospace Society (PSAS) provides us with a unique opportunity to evaluate and deploy these methods at extremely low cost and with extremely low risk, for simulation and even actual flight testing. The PSAS LV2 rocket has a navigation and control system architecture ideally suited to experimentation with the proposed system. As senior technical advisory to PSAS, our organization is well-positioned to prototype and deploy the Magic Bullet AIVHMs technology with PSAS. We expect this deployment to result in the information needed to scale the technology to larger, more complex, more demanding avionics applications.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The Magic Bullet AIVHMS is highly general: it should be useful wherever autonomous vehicles with intelligent VHM are required. Sounding rockets within NASA and elsewhere are prime candidates for the the AIVHMS. We believe that there is a strong potential for NASA to contract for either COTS avionics navigation and control packages containing Magic Bullet technology, or for consulting to apply the technology in-house.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Because of its expected simplicity and low cost, the Magic Bullet technology should be of near-term interest to commercial developers of inexpensive, high quality avionics. Groups exploring Unmanned Aerial Vehicle avionics (including NASA) should find the AIVHMS useful. Indeed, almost any kind of unmanned autonomous vehicle, including land and underwater craft, should be able to benefit from Magic Bullet. While it may be difficult to safety-qualify the Magic Bullet AIVHMS as a primary controller for human flight in the short term, it should nonetheless be usable in controlled-responsibility ancillary systems for commercial avionics.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Seagull Technology Inc
1700 Dell Avenue
Campbell, CA 95008-6902
(408)364-8200

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Gregory C Carr
gcarr@seagull.com
1700 Dell Ave.
Campbell, CA 95008-6902
(408)364-8200

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
We propose to design and develop easy-to-use Ground Control Station (GCS) software for low-altitude civil Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operations. The GCS software will allow a UAV user to 1) specify the mission in the user's language, rather than the traditional jargon of mission and flight plan-ning, and 2) execute the mission without relying on additional personnel who have specialized piloting skills. The user specifies the mission through a combination of natural-language instructions and graphi-cal interfaces, and the GCS software translates the user instructions into a mission plan that is executed autonomously. This innovation will enable a paradigm shift in UAV operations by freeing end users from their dependency on expert operators to fulfill the mission. The proposed Phase I work focuses on requirements analysis and the design and demonstration of a prototype GCS User Interface. We will also develop a plan for a Phase II effort to further develop and demonstrate the GCS software with an existing UAV platform for a specific application. This research directly addresses the NASA Earth Science Enterprise requirement for Automation and Planning technologies that "allow either spacecraft or ground systems to robustly perform complex tasks given high-level goals with minimal human direction."

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA envisions that the results of the AIST topic work will "reduce the risk, cost, size, and development time of ESE space-based and ground-based information systems." The development of easy-to-use UAV GCS software directly addresses the requirements and goals of the AIST Topic. This innovative technol-ogy could substantially reduce the risks and costs associated with both the development and use of UAVs for observation and measurement. The software technology would be of immediate value to a number of the Earth Science Enterprise national applications including Agricultural Efficiency, Air Quality, Avia-tion, Disaster Management, and Homeland Security.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
A significant market exists for low-cost UAV systems for non-military applications ranging from wildfire fighting to traffic surveillance to crop spraying. A number of UAV technologies have been designed and developed to meet the demands of these civil applications. These include small and "low-cost" fixed-wing and rotorcraft UAV platforms, CNS technologies, and mission planning applications. In most existing UAV systems, the Ground Control Station (GCS) software and hardware require highly special-ized skills to plan and execute a mission. An analysis of the marketplace indicates that there is a need for easy-to-use ground stations for both commercial and scientific applications.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
SPLASHNOTE SYSTEMS, INC.
3080 Olcott Street, Suite 125-B
Santa Clara, CA 95054-3229
(408)986-6098

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Scott Tse
scott@splashnote.com
3080 Olcott Street, Suite 125-B
Santa Clara, CA 95054-3229
(408)986-8098

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
SplashNote Systems is proposing to develop a more effective and innovative approach to project collaboration in distributed teams. The proposed system uniquely gives a non-technical user the ability to configure and structure ? within minutes ? the information context for team action as well as the functionality of the interaction. A key innovation is an intuitive Design Builder, which allows users to assemble a project page via drag-and-drop commands. Another key innovation is a transformation grammar, which converts semantic-based instructions into machine codes.

The resulting technology is especially well suited to the operational requirements of NASA. A web-based architecture allows distributed teams to collaborate from anywhere with Internet access. The project portal design enables everyone on the team to share the same contextual information, and to take action based on the latest information. Importantly, the ease with which the project interface can be defined allows each project to be quickly customized to the specific interactive demands of that project.

Phase I will focus on developing the design of the system, showing its feasibility, and researching the system's usability for NASA. Phase II will perform the engineering development of the system, and will result in a field-installable prototype ready for trials at NASA.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This project collaboration portal system is especially well suited to the conditions of project team operations at NASA, where teams are often widespread and projects are typically information intensive. Examples of potential applications can be found from the most esoteric scientific projects (e.g., collaboratory) to interplanetary mission planning to the most mundane daily administrative tasks (e.g., inventory collection, budget analysis).

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This system is especially valuable for dispersed groups that need to act within an information context. Examples can be found in many team-based, information-intensive industries, such as consulting, legal, accounting, and finance. Other examples include enterprises that require tight coordination with suppliers or customers (e.g., automobile, aircraft). Applications can also be found in government entities, such as branches of Defense, which often need to gather or share time-critical information and data in a structured format across several agencies. This system would be invaluable in such situations as coordination of supplies and logistics, resource allocation, and mission planning.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
NVISION SOLUTIONS INC.
Suite 146J, Bldg 1103, SSC
Stennis Space Center, MS 39529-6000
(228)688-3951

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Craig Harvey
charvey@nvs-inc.com
Suite 146J, Bldg 1103, SSC
Stennis Space Center, MS 39529-6000
(228)688-2205

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The availability of remotely sensed data has been improving with each new high-resolution satellite obtaining operational capability in orbit. However, the ability of commercial and government entities to efficiently share or sell this data has not kept pace. The proposed GeoSpatial data distribution system will exploit recent improvements in advanced computing environments and processing algorithms to provide on demand products with a "no minimum purchase" requirement.

The inability of data providers to efficiently create and disseminate small foot prints or even on-demand data products has been a limiting factor in expanding the use of remotely sensed data. Creating a system that can efficiently distribute data or products in small foot prints will greatly improve the economic viability of the entire industry.

Providing a customer initiated order system will make ordering up remotely sensed data as easy as creating a Web-based profile and interactively selecting and downloading the raw-data of choice or choosing and executing the real-time development of a data product. Pay by the square kilometer with no minimums. Use of the advanced functions provide unprecedented functionality to create a new, customer defined data product.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The prototype application will allow NASA to distribute data internally and to the public utilizing a fully automated distribution system. Providing data in requested geographic extent, projection, datum, or as a processed data product will create an entirely new set of data users.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The ability or inability to utilize remotely sensed data most often rests with the affordability of the data. The operational costs associated with sub-setting and delivering data are extensive, resulting in the extensive geographic extents required to make a commercial profit. The ability to automatically disseminate data in a user defined geographic extent will greatly increase the potential sales of all data vendors. This methodology can be applied to photography as well as satellite data. Building this hands-off data ordering and dissemination system will revolutionize the methods by which raster data is currently managed and sold.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
DIAMOND DATA SYSTEMS
5732 Salmen St. Suite C
New Orleans, LA 70123-3288
(504)729-9100

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Keith Alphonso
kalphonso@diamonddata.com
5732 Salmen St. Suite C
New Orleans, LA 70123-3288
(228)688-3145

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Diamond Data Systems (DDS) proposes the development of a new, advanced architecture, algorithms and software to support the end-to-end processing of LIDAR data to derive a Digital Elevation Model (DEM). Our approach is innovative in three ways. First, we propose a complete end-to-end system instead of a solution that addresses only a single step of the complex problem of accurately gathering, processing, and reporting of the data. Secondly, we propose a system that is designed to minimize human interaction and manual data entry. Thirdly, and possibly the most important part of this innovation, is that we propose both the implementation of multiple algorithms to perform the data processing, as well as an extensible software architecture which allows new algorithms to be incorporated into the system in the future. This approach allows for the development of a dynamic system which can be extended in the future as better algorithms are developed. Our proposal is relevant to topic E3.03 in that it provides for the efficient production of a DEM product from an active imaging system (LIDAR). Current approaches to this problem only solve parts of the problem and do not provide an integrated system for end-to-end processing.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
All Earth Science: An accurate model of the earth's surface is a key component in almost all earth science applications.
Homeland Security Decision Support: This technology provides the data that makes it possible to perform accurate modeling of gaseous cloud plume propagation.
Flood Prediction: Our technology will make it cost effective to gather the high resolution terrain data needed for this type of modeling.
Space Exploration: The study of the lunar and Martian surface will require extensive terrain mapping. Our technology will make this mapping feasible and cost effective.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The application of this technology will benefit the non-NASA market sector by making the processing of LIDAR data inexpensive enough to be commercially viable for applications such as agriculture, land-use, and urban planning.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Milcord LLC
1050 Winter Street Suite 1000, #10008
Waltham, MA 02451-1402
(617)905-1486

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Peggy Agouris
pagouris@milcord.com
20 Godfrey Drive
Orono, ME 04473-3610
(207)581-2180

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Conflation and co-registration are critical applications for NASA, especially for co-registration of datasets differing in scale, resolution, sensor spectrum range (e.g. optical with IR or thermal imagery). Traditional georegistration solutions in the geospatial, photogrammetric, and computer vision communities select a set of control features in an existing database and identify the same features in an incoming dataset. However, these registration algorithms are not robust due to variations in scale, resolution, and sensor characteristics, where the identification of control features becomes a complex and challenging process. Recent NASA sponsored innovations include Feature Analyst (FA) automation with a registration scheme that is along the lines of traditional tools (e.g. use few control features to co-register two datasets). Here, we propose a new approach based object configuration similarity. Our solution - a departure from traditional approaches ? uses abstract spatial relations (e.g. three square buildings forming an orthogonal triangle with a river running between them) as matching features, and transforms the registration problem into a spatial similarity assessment problem. Our approach results in unparalleled pull-in range as coarse location data are adequate to support the recovery of registration information for a configuration.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA applications include the Earth Observing System Data and Information System (EOSDIS) Core System (ECS) Synergy Program, NASA Distributed Active Archive Centers (DAAC), Remote Data Store (RDS). We intend to pursue opportunities with DAAC prime contractor Raytheon, and University Lab Synergy partners.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Other potential users of our proposed technology is the Geospatial One-Stop Program, NOAA Electronic Navigational Charts Program, various NGA programs, DoD Distributed Common Ground System (AF), Army Common Ground Station (CGS) program (Army), UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) and SWARM (Smart Warfighting Array of Reconfigurable Modules) programs.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
PHYSICAL OPTICS CORPORATION
20600 Gramercy Place, Building 100
Torrance, CA 90501-1821
(310)320-3088

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Andrew Kostrzewski
sutama@poc.com
20600 Gramercy Place, Building 100
Torrance, CA 90501-1821
(310)320-3088

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
National LambdaRail (NLR) offers unprecedented communication capabilities on the National and possibly International levels. Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new 3D multichannel networked (3DMCN) system for visualizing large collections of Earth science data in a highly distributed and networked environment, compatible with the high speed National LambdaRail (NLR), with the necessary interfaces and video processing hardware/software. One of the critical issues in the development of such systems is the capability to transmit high-resolution (High Definition format) multi-channel images/video from a central rendering/processing location to multiple visualization stations, which can be thousands of miles apart. To address 3D video/telepresence on the NLR POC will develop special compression software for multi-channel transmission, removing both intra- and inter-channel redundancy. At the end of Phase I POC will demonstrate 3D video transmission over multi-Gigabit Ethernet channels in a laboratory environment. In Phase II a full system with multiple visualization stations connected to the NLR will be developed, including network interfaces, video compression, and 3D video stations.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The initial application of 3DMCN will be for Earth science data visualization, with particular emphasis on networked true 3D environment visualization. This initial application reflects the focus of this project on the needs of NASA. Other applications of the 3DMCN systems will include mapping: meteorological imagery for weather maps, satellite imagery for satellite image maps, topographic maps, digital elevation models (DEMs), and specialized maps showing geology, hydrology, demography, vegetation, agricultural land use, cities, forests, roads, etc.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed 3DMCN technology is ideal for multichannel live video transmission and storage. This technology has many applications in visualization, video communication, virtual reality, medicine, and related fields. In addition to advanced multi-channel 3D visualization, it will bring new bandwidth efficiency to computer training and simulation, video games, air traffic control, environmental monitoring, and automatic satellite orbit control.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Intelligent Automation, Inc.
15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400
Rockville, MD 20855-2785
(301)294-5200

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Goutam Satapathy
goutam@i-a-i.com
15400 Calhoun Drive
Rockville, MD 20855-2785
(301)294-5249

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Technologies that support the configuration of sensors and satellites, and allow the reconfiguration or retargeting of sensors in response to user demand or significant events require mechanisms to autonomously understand the type and current state of on-board resources and to re-task these resources in such as way that the system achieves its global objectives. Here we propose the development of an integrated framework for onboard dynamic sensor (re)configuration, discovery and classification of data, based on SensorML (Sensor model language). We also model each satellite as a multi-criteria multi constraint optimization problem to optimize the usage of resources in response to significant events without adversely affecting the normal operations. This is achieved through negotiation among various satellites that have overlapping sensing capabilities so that globally optimal solutions can be found by computing joint plan qualities resulting due to sharing of resources. We propose to use IAI's propriety Cybele agent platform (www.cybelepro.com) that provides capability to model and simulate such complex distributed systems. DIVA a case tool developed by IAI would be employed to design and implement negotiation protocols among satellite agents to demonstrate the collaborative global optimization of autonomous planning process for multi-sensor retargeting.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The immediate NASA application is in integrating sensor configuration and control. A unified framework for sensor definition and discovery along with an intelligent autonomous control mechanism will enable a level of autonomy and dynamic responsiveness in remote satellite based monitoring capabilities. It eliminates the need for intensive manual intervention in the event of sensor failures or significant events by providing sufficient on-board intelligence to dynamically reschedule the resources.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Any resource scheduling and control problem can be addressed by this solution. Of special interest is factory scheduling and planning, decentralized control of autonomous robots, team formation in distributed systems, evolutionary systems such as ecological and natural systems.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
SMH Consulting
200 Innovation Blvd.
State College, PA 16803-6602
(814)237-4060

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dmitry L. Varlyguin
dmitry@gdacorp.com
200 Innovation Blvd., Suite 234
State College, PA 16803-6602
(814)237-4060

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
SMH Consulting proposes to develop a web-based decision support system to assist in Rapid Assessment, Monitoring, and Management (RAMM-DSS) on a regional scale. SMH Consulting will focus on the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and collaborate with the Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP) for the RAMM-DSS development during Phase I. The RAMM-DSS will supplement operational decision support tools already in use with tailored data products routinely derived from NASA's MODIS data. Delivery of data products and information will be through a web portal where users can view, query, and download data for a specified area and time period of interest. The RAMM-DSS will support NASA missions by (i) lowering technical and logistical barriers to the use of ESE data, (ii) making ESE data easy-to-use for practitioners, and (iii) supporting educational initiatives on use of RS data in operational scenarios. The web delivery of data and information tailored to client requirements will bridge the gap between RS data providers and applicational users. Further, the educational component consisting of real-world, hands-on case studies and RS and satellite/sensor overviews, will aim to eventually close this gap altogether by making practitioners more knowledgeable and aware of the use of RS data in their daily operations.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This project will meet NASA goals by:
? Making MODIS-based data products and information useful and easy-to-use by practitioners on a routine basis
? Supporting the development of operational decision support systems
? Developing a unique, systematic method for delivery of MODIS-based data products to end-users by further processing Level 2 data to match exact user requirements and incorporating a unique "Alerting service"

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
? Monitoring of soil and crop conditions, identifying "problem" areas, and improving planting/harvesting schedules;
? Monitoring ground conditions and cost effectively allocating resources during, for example, snow storms and floods
? Identifying areas of LC changes to reduce expenses of county and state wide re-mapping programs and introducing information on current LC planning activities and assessments, modeling, and development initiatives;
? Enabling an early warning system for the detection and monitoring of, for example, forest fires and gypsy moth outbreaks; and
? Providing climate/weather modeling and forecasting entities with improved regional and global datasets on cloud and snow cover dynamics.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Microtel LLC
111 Centerway
Greenbelt, MD 20770-1808
(301)345-4005

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Bruce Trout
Bruce.Trout@Microtel-LLC.com
111 Centerway
Greenbelt, MD 20770-1808
(301)345-4005

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Work done at Water Resources Center, University of Minnesota has demonstrated the feasibility of performing regional assessment of lake water quality using Landsat imagery. Microtel LLC is proposing to tune algorithms available from this research to process imagery collected by NASA Advanced Land Imager (ALI) to generate water quality mappings (secchi depth transparency and chlorophyll a) of the Chesapeake Bay. Extensive ground truth measurements collected routinely and specifically during satellite overflights by Maryland DNR will be utilized to verify results. This proposal is innovative because it will determine the suitability of NASA earth science data for managers concerned with stewardship of the earth's inland water resources. This proposal is significant because it will develop innovative technology that allow the routine use of NASA Earth science results in automated water quality decision support tools. This proposal addresses solicitation subtopic E4.01 "Innovative Tools and Techniques Supporting the Practical Uses of Earth Science Observations". Accurate and timely water quality maps of the Chesapeake Bay will provide a valuable source of information for water management and policy decision makers.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Use of satellite imagery to routinely perform Chesapeake Bay water quality monitoring:
? demonstrate the application of satellite imagery to assess critical problems (ie, water quality)
? might provide practical insight into user needs in future NASA remote sensing satellites
? could broaden the customer base for ALI imagery

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Generation of spatially intensive Chesapeake Bay water quality maps has the following applications :
? assist in water quality monitoring required by the 2000 Chesapeake Bay Agreement
? alert water resource managers to areas of concern
? identify point and non-point pollution sources
? measure the success of filtering by oysters at oyster restoration sites
? provide valuable information on Submerged Aquatic Vegation (SAV) habitat and greatly bolster efforts in large scale SAV restoration
? could be tuned for other water environments.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Applied Geosolutions, LLC
10 Newmarket Road
Durham, NH 03824-2808
(603)868-2369

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
william salas
wsalas@agsemail.com
10 Newmarket Road
Durham, NH 03824-2808
(603)868-2369

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal is submitted under the Innovative Tools and Techniques Supporting the Practical Uses of Earth Science Observations topic. We seek to evaluate and demonstrate technical approaches for linking remote sensing rangeland products with a soil biogeochemical model to form a decision support system for improved rangeland management. The resulting decision support system will be unique and innovative by not only providing operational remote sensing observations of rangeland condition, but also web-based tools that utilize these observations to provide critical information on soil fertility/productivity, greenhouse gas emissions, and potential erosion and sedimentation. Our Rangeland Decision Support System will build off of existing RANGES and DNDC tools. Landsat and MODIS prototype processing algorithms for rangeland condition (height, forage production, fractional cover) have been developed under the previous RANGES project. Our decision support system will couple RANGES products with the DeNtrification-DeComposition (DNDC) model. DNDC is a unique, spatially explicit, soil biogeochemical model that simulates both aerobic and anaerobic soil conditions, estimates crop yields based on a detailed crop physiology-phenology model, and is designed for assessing the net impact of alternative management on long-term soil organic carbon (SOC) dynamics and emissions of N2O, NO, CH4, and NH3 for upland and wetland agricultural ecosystems.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Our Rangeland Decision Support System will be designed to facilitate easy use of NASA Earth Observations from existing (Landsat and MODIS) NASA resources and addresses current interests in the Earth Science Application agricultural efficiency and carbon management program areas. Through our web-portal, a wide array of users will have access to remote sensing and model products that are critical for improved and sustainable rangeland management. RDSS would be also useful as a gaming tool for educational applications, natural resource managers and policy applications for better understanding of rangeland management, carbon and nitrogen cycling and sustainability of rangeland forage systems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
We anticipate our routine mapping and monitoring of rangeland products will be a very useful service to support USDA Risk Management Program needs for Risk Management Products for Pasture /Rangeland and forage systems as part of the USDA Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC). In addition, as the US EPA Total Maximum Daily Load criteria are set for rangeland watersheds, tools will be needed to map and monitor pollutant contributions across these watersheds. The RANGES products coupled with the information on C and N cycling and susceptibility to erosion and sedimentation will be extremely useful for the TMDL process.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Nu-Trek, Inc.
16428 Avenida Florencia
Poway, CA 92064-1806
(858)487-8149

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Miriam Rauch
miriam@nu-trek.com
16428 Avenida Florencia
Poway, CA 92064-1806
(858)487-8149

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
"CODE (COrps DEvelopment) STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) ? Moon Mars and Beyond; DLESE-Powered On-Line Classroom" shares the excitement of President Bush's vision of space exploration with 8th grade students. Program fulfills standards-based 8th grade curriculum and will be implemented in two diverse Escondido schools (Grant, Rincon). San Diego County Office of Education will ensure relevance and integration into formal curriculum. Through thematic approach to learning and multi-disciplinary exhibit-centered final project, Program strives to engage broad cross-section of students and teachers.

Focus is on developing a theme-specific DLESE (Digital Library for Earth System Education) collection and portal. On-line learning communities and inquiry based learning protocols (San Diego State University) will enhance DLESE effectiveness. Implementation culminates with multi-disciplinary student exhibit at participating schools and San Diego Aerospace Museum, sharing excitement of space exploration with general public. In Phase II DLESE collection will be expanded to support additional grade levels (3rd, 5th, 8th, high school), there will be broad implementation in San Diego and Nashville (through Fisk University), and teacher training.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
DLESE-Powered On-Line Classroom stocks STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) pipeline at critical 8th grade junction. It is designed to fulfill standards-based curriculum, endorsed by San Diego County Office of Education, and will be implemented countywide in Phase II. This CODE (COrps DEvelopment) STEM concept can be used to deliver other content, fulfilling mandatory NASA outreach requirements (typically several percent of research budget). NASA spends approximately at 450-million dollars/year on outreach and we aspire to capture 1% of the market in CODE STEM Outreach Products.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
DLESE-Powered On-Line Classroom stocks STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) pipeline at the critical 8th grade junction. It is designed to fulfill standards-based curriculum, endorsed by the San Diego County Office of Education, and will be implemented countywide in Phase II. The CODE (COrps DEvelopment) STEM concept can be used to deliver other content, fulfilling mandatory NSF and DoE outreach requirements (typically several percent of research budget). NSF and DoE spend over a billion dollars/year on outreach and we aspire to capture 1% of the market in CODE STEM Outreach Products.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Whereabout LP
8726 Phoenix Ave
Universal City, TX 78148-2619
(210)240-0202

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jason Scarlett
jscarlett@whereabout.net
8726 Phoenix Ave
Universal City, TX 78148-2619
(210)240-0202

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal details a novel mobile data transceiver solution that supports standalone wireless sensors and concurrently acts as a gateway between multiple sensor webs. This innovation uses Software Defined Radio (SDR) technology to communicate with a variety of sensor technologies using many different radio waveforms and communication protocols. The proposed system is designed to be adaptable to mission requirements and all aspects of its operation can be remotely modified after deployment. When possible, the solution uses commercial of the shelf technology (COTS) components and incorporates open data operability standards for information visualization.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
This solution will enable both real-time and delay tolerant data gathering from legacy NASA in-situ sensor webs already deployed by NASA earth science researchers and enable a new class of roving sensors. Applications within NASA include environmental and agricultural monitoring, border security, and resource and facilities management.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Applications that could be created from this research and development effort are found in most of the world's largest markets including military, public safety, agricultural, industrial, utilities, and the facilities management sectors. The innovation includes geo-positioning technology that enables a completely new class of dynamic, mobile data gathering applications that have yet to be commercially targeted.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
MOBITRUM CORPORATION
8070 Georgia Avenue, Suite 213
Silver Spring, MD 20910-4934
(301)585-4040

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Ray Wang
rwang@mobitrum.com
8070 Georgia Avenue, Suite 213
Silver Spring, MD 20919-4934
(301)585-4040

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Wireless technologies are an increasingly attractive means for spatial data, input, manipulation, and distribution. Mobitrum is proposing an innovative Adaptive Wireless Transceiver, which is targeted for NASA's Earth Science applications for field personnel and robotic platforms to interface with various wireless sensor networks, in real time, ingest data sequentially from a variety of input sensors, provide initial field verification of data and distribute the data to various nodes and servers at collection, processing, and decision sites. This effort addresses important technology gap for interfacing with various wireless sensor networks and transmitting/receiving data over long distances. This effort will include: (1) Design of the high-level system architecture of the adaptive wireless interface that employs model-based reasoning to achieve a specified level of competence in radio-related domains, (2) Design of the adaptive wireless module, and (3) Develop rules, procedures, software algorithms, and techniques through modeling and simulation for designing an adaptive wireless module. The proposed enabling technology will provide NASA an effective wireless device for Earth science, data relay, and other situational awareness.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Adaptive transceiver for wireless networked sensors will enable NASA's Earth sciences for spatial data input, manipulation and distribution activities as well as design and engineering collaboration to be more effective. Mobitrum anticipates the following applications that NASA will benefit from the proposed adaptive wireless transceiver technology: 1) Disaster recovery; 2) Field communications device for spatial data input, manipulation and distribution; 3) Sensor, measurement, and field verification applications; 4) Biometric identification applications; 5) Data collaboration and distribution applications; 6) Condition-aware applications; 7) Location-aware applications; and 8) first responders.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The opportunity for adaptive wireless technology lays in future wireless networks and communications. There are tremendous business applications and deployments for cellular 4G networks based on adaptive radios beyond 2004. Mobitrum anticipates the increasing popularity of mobile handhelds including PDA/Cell phones brings with it an exciting opportunities for the adaptive radio, which will serve a key factor to make handhelds deployable throughout heterogeneous wireless networks whether for corporations or for individuals. As a result, "true mobility" is created through the programmable radio bands, hence, more value-added services are deployable and increase revenue to wireless service providers and handheld makers.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Southwest Sciences Inc
1570 Pacheco St Suite E-11
Santa Fe, NM 87505-3993
(505)984-1322

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
David Christian Hovde
dchovde@swsciences.com
Southwest Sciences, Inc., 6837 Main Street
Cincinnati, OH 45244-3470
(513)272-1323

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This Phase I SBIR project will demonstrate sensitive measurements of magnetic field gradients by nonlinear atomic spectroscopy. The gradients are determined by measuring the magnitudes of the magnetic fields in two atomic vapor cells. A vertical cavity surface emitting laser is used to create an atomic coherence. This coherent state is long lived because of the special construction of the atomic vapor cell. A measurement of the Larmor precession frequency of the coherent state gives a precise measurement of the magnetic field. The field measurement precision should be 0.3 fT in a 1 Hz bandwidth. Two such probes can be tethered at the ends of 80 m cables from a rotating space craft. Typical geophysical gradients of ~ 250 fT can be measured from a single spacecraft with excellent signal/noise. The system uses no cryogenic fluids, no consumable chemicals, and will operate from a few Watts of electrical power.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA applications include measurements of fields and field gradients in the magnetosphere from space, measurements of lunar and planetary fields, and more sensitive measurements of magnetic storms from Earth's surface.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Precision magnetometry is used in oil and mineral exploration and hidden object detection at land and at sea. Applications include archeology and marine search and recovery. The extraordinary sensitivity of this approach opens up applications in advanced magnetic resonance imaging. Defense and homeland security applications include the detection of underwater or underground threats including submarines, camouflaged tanks, and mines.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
EERGC Corporation
18A Mason
Irvine, CA 92618-2706
(949)768-3756

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mark Sheldon
msheldon@eergc.com
18A Mason
Irvine, CA 92618-2706
(949)768-3756

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal is responsive to NASA 2004 SBIR objectives (under Topic X6.05) seeking gelled propellant formulations "for long-duration missions involving low-power consumption (i.e., minimal use of heaters)." EERGC Corporation, in cooperation with subcontractor Northrop Grumman Space and Technology (NGST) Propulsion Systems, proposes to develop gelled propellant formulations (and development methodologies) optimized for high combustion efficiency, storability at variable low temperatures including freezing conditions, and firing at reduced temperatures to minimize energy requirements for heat up prior to firing. The approach is an innovation as it enables loaded gels with optimized low-temperature performance. The gel formulations will be optimized with respect to composition of gellants, additives, and loading agents, as well as characteristic size of particulate ingredients. The approach will consider the tradeoff impacts of propellant formulation and loading particle size on maximum attainable loading, solid phase burnout, susceptibility to separation from thermal cycling, and ultimately combustion efficiency. The project is relevant as it improves the competitiveness of gelled bipropellants with equivalent liquids, while incorporating gels' safety and handling advantages. The proposed program takes gel technology beyond that developed by EERGC under prior and ongoing DoD and NASA programs.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
If successful, this project will provide NASA with: specific propellants with minimum energy requirements for storage and preparation for firing, while maximizing combustion efficiency; and improved methods for testing the impacts of freeze/thaw cycling. The methodology developed under this program could in turn be applied for formulations with different ingredients.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The products of this project will provide non-NASA beneficiaries (e.g. DoD and commercial space flight) the same advantages as listed above for NASA. DoD gel applications will utilize the methodology with different formulation constraints due to DoD requirements for plume signature minimization. The minimization of product quality impacts due to thermal cycling, and development of test methodologies for determining such impacts, has implications for optimization of gelled consumer product formulations.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Busek Co. Inc.
11 Tech Circle
Natick, MA 01760-2213
(508)655-5565

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Rachel Tedrake
rachel@busek.com
11 Tech Circle
Natick, MA 01760-1023
(508)655-5565

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
In the proposed Phase I program, Busek Co. will demonstrate an innovative methodology for clustering Hall thrusters into a high performance, very high power propulsion system. The concept uses multiple thruster discharge assemblies with a common (shared) magnetic structure. The concept combines the benefits of clustering that include modularity, reliability, reduced beam divergence and throttleability with the cost, mass savings and power loss reduction of a shared magnetic structure. In Phase I, Busek will conduct a sub-scale demonstration of a shared magnetics cluster based on our existing BHT-600 (nominally 600 W input power) Hall thruster.

A methodology for shared magnetics clustering will be developed that can be applied to the full range of Hall thruster power requirements (100 kW ? 1 MW) envisioned by NASA for obit insertion, planetary transfers and manned exploration. In Phase II a 200 ? 400 kW shared magnetics thruster based on NASA's existing high power Hall thruster technology will be designed and built.

Busek is uniquely positioned to implement the proposed program having expertise in both the clustering of Hall thrusters and shared magnetics thruster development.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The cluster will enable cargo and propellant transport, pre-positioning missions for lunar and Mars exploration, and enable a reusable orbital tug. The cluster's redundancy is a benefit over a single, large thruster.
Moreover, the cluster can be throttled to run at high Isp or high T/P and can grow or shrink to fit different missions.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
As communication satellites evolve to use all electric propulsion, there is a need for larger power thrusters for orbit raising. The shared magnetic Hall thruster clusters, in principle, can be applied across the spectrum of thruster sizes. The Air Force anticipates a need for very high clusters of Hall thrusters in the 100kW to 150kW range for orbit transfer vehicles, space tugs, and re-supply vessels.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
CFD Research Corp
215 Wynn Dr.
Huntsville, AL 35805-1926
(256)726-4800

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Peter A. Liever
jls@cfdrc.com
215 Wynn Dr.
Huntsville, AL 35805-1926
(256)726-4858

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This project will develop a much-needed multidisciplinary analysis tool for predicting the impact of aeroelastic effects on the functionality of inflatable aeroassist vehicles. High-fidelity computational modules for fluid dynamics, heat transfer, structural dynamics, and dynamic motion will be coupled into a multidisciplinary computing environment. The multi-disciplinary system has been successfully applied for aeroelastic and dynamic simulations of fighter aircraft, hypersonic vehicles and planetary probes. The application range will be extended to the rarefied regime through integration of an existing NASA DSMC flow solver.

In Phase I, continuum flow regime sample analyses will be performed for a trailing ballute configuration to demonstrate the capabilities of the software environment. Simulations will demonstrate the insight gained into the aerodynamic, material stress and localized heating effects from various levels of simulation fidelity: steady and unsteady flow, rigid or flexible structure, and static or dynamically moving vehicles. The feasibility of implementing the DSMC flow solver in the multidisciplinary simulation framework will be demonstrated for the case of a steady-state shape deformation prediction. Phase II efforts will focus on fully implementing the DSMC code and other NASA codes in the multidisciplinary environment. Extensive verification and validation studies will be performed, leveraging planned aeroelastic ballute windtunnel tests.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed simulation technology will find direct and immediate applications with NASA and industry in ongoing aerocapture technology development programs. It provides significant capability advances in crucial areas of aeroassist vehicle development: 1) definition and screening of ballute configurations in the concept phase, and 2) verification of aeroassist system functionality across the flight envelope. Inflatable decelerator technology may find a multitude of applications under Project Constellation for providing deceleration and precision landing capability for cargo delivery to Mars outposts or in returning large amounts of down-mass from Earth orbit.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Additional application areas include analysis of space-based inflatable structures such as telescopes and mirrors, satellite solar panels and military reentry vehicles (inflatable decoys, etc) exposed to the atmosphere. The aeroelastic analysis of parachutes and parafoils and the analysis of high-altitude endurance airplanes with flexible wings will be improved. Further military applications include stabilization and deceleration of ordnance with attached inflatable decelerators.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
American GNC Corporation
888 Easy Street
Simi Valley, CA 93065-1812
(805)582-0582

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Tasso Politopoulos
tpolito@americangnc.com
888 Easy Street
Simi Valley, CA 93065-1812
(805)582-0582

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Distributed Reconfigurable Intelligent software agent technologies are key and revolutionary technologies that are needed to fulfill spacecraft autonomy and robustness operations capabilities and functions. The Distributed Reconfigurable Intelligent spacecraft autonomy and robustness system integrates real time control and health monitoring with planning and scheduling to achieve the long-term mission objectives. This project develops the Distributed Reconfigurable Intelligent software agents consisting of automation in multi levels, knowledge base, inference mechanism, and communication. The proposed Distributed Reconfigurable Intelligent software agents for operations assistant takes advantage of innovative techniques of individual decision and control methodologies and emphasizes the synergism among all subsystems to assure the overall system performance. At the end of the project, a demonstration system will be established to evaluate the proposed software system.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The NASA would directly benefit from this research effort by acquiring the novel Distributed Reconfigurable Intelligent software agents for unmanned vehicle autonomy. Our software agent design technique as well as the software product can apply to manufacturing, precision machine tools, process control, engine control and automation applications, including automobile and commercial aircraft manufacturing, robotics, flight controls, smart highway systems, etc.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The results of this project lead to the commercialized product: Distributed Reconfigurable Intelligent Software Agents for Unmanned Vehicle Autonomy. The applications of this technology arise in all areas of manufacturing systems, unmanned vehicles, Distributed Reconfigurable Intelligent vehicle highway systems, industrial processes, and command, control, communications and intelligence (C3I) systems.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
EPIR Technologies
590 Territorial Dr.
Bolingbrook, IL 60440-4881
(630)771-0203

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Silviu Velicu
svelicu@epir.com
590 Territorial Dr.
Bolingbrook, IL 60440-4881
(630)771-0206

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
High sensitivity HgCdTe infrared arrays operating at 77K can now be tailored in a wide range of wavelengths from 1 to14 um. However, the cooling requirements make them bulky and unsuitable to be incorporated into robust autonomous sensor systems. We propose to develop detectors with high detectivity that operates at or near room temperature in the MWIR (3 to 5 um) and LWIR (8 to 12 um) atmospheric windows. These detectors are based on the active regions with HgCdTe bulk alloy layer and a secondary HgCdTe bulk alloy layer, which serves as a sink for both the dark and background currents. Room temperature or moderately cooled operation of these detectors is achieved by suppressing the Auger and radiative recombination mechanisms. We will also incorporate in each pixel a dynamic skimming that will reduce the effect of dark and background currents while enhancing the dynamic range. Therefore, we are designing detectors that are read out integrated circuit (ROIC) friendly.
We plan to achieve these objectives by combining the advantages of the molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) crystal growth technique, an innovative nonequilibrium device architecture, photon recycling concepts, dynamic dark current skimming, and optimized read out circuit that will increase the operating temperature. High quality HgCdTe layers (for infrared detection) will be grown on large area (3-5") silicon substrates. This will make it possible to produce rugged, low-cost, large area focal plane arrays with higher operating temperatures and near-BLIP performance

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Near room temperature FPAs will be suitable for space-based spectroscopic applications. HgCdTe-based devices, with the advantages of small electron mass, high mobilities, and large electron saturation velocities have considerable benefits for a variety of new micro-electronic and optoelectronic applications, if near room temperature operation is achieved with a nonequilibrium mode of operation. As a consequence of negative luminescence at ambient temperatures, nonequilibrium devices cool their surroundings, thus creating the potential for a new application, "radiation coolers".

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Near room temperature focal plane arrays will find enormous applications in military, space and medical imaging areas for infrared imaging. Another area where these detectors will find enormous application is in the automobile industry, for example as driver's navigation aids in nighttime and foggy weather conditions. EPIR Technologies is fully committed to fabricate and commercialize uncooled infrared detectors and arrays if this program is successful.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
AMERICAN SEMICONDUCTOR, INC.
3100 S. Vista Ave. Suite 230
Boise, ID 83705-0230
(208)336-2773

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Kelly DeGregorio
kellydegregorio@americansemi.com
3100 S. Vista Ave. Suite 230
Boise, ID 83705-0230
(208)336-2773

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Various technologies available to space system designers that operate at different voltage levels. It is, however, important to interface, maintain, and update these systems. For example, the Sun Earth Connection (SEC) missions are likely to have a variety of experiments needing to be accomplished with a single nanosatellite. A rad-hard reconfigurable bi-directional level shifters would allow them to accomplish this goal despite the various multi-voltage level systems employed within the satellite. Additionally, a level shifter could be used to extend and/or expand the life of existing space systems. Presently and in the future, nanosatellites and other spacecraft have need for rad-hard reconfigurable bi-directional level shifters to enable there existing systems the ability to communicate logic signals to other lower voltage level systems. This proposal is to develop such a level shifter.

This will allow these systems to continue to conduct operations and missions for the existing and a growing number of future users. Space system applications for SEC missions have mass, power, cost, and rad-hard limitations on all of their circuits. A rad-hard reconfigurable bi-directional level shifter design would provide for these needs between multilevel voltage technologies to aid in their missions.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
American Semiconductor, Inc. will focus this SBIR to present a radhard reconfigurable bi-directional level shifters design, with bi-directional operation to permit two way communications between systems for the purpose of integration of current and future systems. This will allow systems the ability to communicate and function together utilizing a longer life span for current and future space-bound equipment. Benefits will also include a radhard, low power, and sub-lithographic process utilization. This will significantly improve the integration of components from different technology generations.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The development of reconfigurable bi-directional level shifter components will provide significant performance improvement and better multifunctional use for space system designers. Two marketing channels are open for American Semiconductor commercialization of this technology.

Channel 1: American Semiconductor may license the reconfigurable bi-directional level shifter to support manufacturers who wish to use our IP library for their needs and requirements for general design.

Channel 2: Innovative technologies applied to reconfigurable bi-directional level shifter are attractive for licensing by parts companies such as JPL.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Busek Co. Inc.
11 Tech Circle
Natick, MA 01760-2213
(508)655-5565

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Vlad Hruby
vhruby@busek.com
11 Tech Circle
Natick, MA 01760-1023
(508)655-5565

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
Micro-resistojets offer the best combination of simplicity, performance, wet system mass and power consumption for small satellites (<100kg, <50Watts) requiring mN level propulsion and low to moderate deltaV(<500m/sec). Classical competing devices such as cold gas thrusters have low performance, while liquid bipropellants have both high losses in the mN thrust range and are more complex. The advanced EP devices such as colloid thrusters are suitable for sub-mN thrust while electrostatic or electromagnetic thrusters are suitable for large deltaV missions where their higher dry mass is offset by higher specific impulse.

Busek therefore proposes to develop a complete micro-resistojet system operating on ammonia or methanol delivering thrust up to 5mN, specific impulse approaching 300sec, impulse bit smaller than 1mNsec and power consumption lower than approximately 10Watts. Ammonia was chosen because it is less toxic than hydrazine while offering similar performance. Methanol is non toxic, greatly simplifying s/c fueling which is especially important for low cost missions.

In Phase 1, breadboard system will be constructed and tested on our Maglev thrust stand that can resolve microNewton forces. In Phase 2 an Engineering Model of the system will be developed.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The micro-resistojet has a clear window of superiority when applied to small sats (<50kg) requiring mN level thrust with mission deltaV<500m/sec. Drag makeup and precisely controlled formation flight of multiple small satellites are examples of missions that require such propulsion. NASA's major missions such as the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) and Terrestrial Planet Finder (TPF) could also benefit from the micro-resistojet as the device that performs formation reorientation to point to different location in the sky. ESA is developing warm gas thruster for such applications which will be demonstrated on the Lisa Path Finder /ST7 DRS mission.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Surrey Space Systems LTD is the only commercial satellite provider that is actively selling small sats (<100kg). Their major customers are third world countries where the satellites serve as emergency communications platforms. The proposed micro-resistojet is applicable to these platforms. As we plan to develop a self contained "bolt up" micro-resistojet, it could also be used on any commercial satellites as a de-orbit propulsion. In such non-critical application it could operate at reduced peak temperature on any propellant that may be left on board including Xe, N2, N2O, butane, ammonia, methanol, hydrazine and water.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
PAYLOAD SYSTEMS INC.
247 Third Street
Cambridge, MA 02142-1129
(617)868-8086

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Steven Sell
sell@payload.com
247 Third Street
Cambridge, MA 02142-1129
(617)868-8086

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
As the focus of space system architectures changes from single, to multiple, and eventually to many spacecraft flying in formation, a greater demand on total lifetime impulse and precision control becomes unavoidable. A unique property of these spacecraft clusters is that controlling only relative positions within the cluster is normally sufficient to satisfy most metrics of performance. This opens the possibility of using inter-spacecraft forces and torques (such as those generated electromagnetically) as the primary means of control, eliminating the need for onboard propellant. Eliminating the dependence on a non-replenishable consumable (propellant) in lieu of a replenishable resource (electricity) allows even aggressive maneuvers to be repeated without limit for as along as the other subsystems last. A testbed has been developed at the MIT Space Systems that uses a combination of steerable magnetic dipoles and reaction wheels on each spacecraft allows for all relative degrees of freedom within a cluster to be controlled. Payload Systems proposes to design an avionics and software system which would not only be usable with the existing testbed, but would also be appropriate for an on-orbit demonstration. This effort would drastically reduce the risk and effort required to transition the technology from ground to flight.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The proposed technologies are relevant to any constellation or coordinated flight missions with separation distances on the order of tens or hundreds of meters, and also to small satellite systems in the <=100kg categories. These include astronomy, earth observation, and many other near-term NASA applications (such as EOS-9, GEC, TPF, etc.).

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Non-NASA applications likewise include multisatellite formation missions and also small satellite (<=100kg) systems for DoD, DOE, and other government agencies, as well as commercial Earth-imaging and related for-profit applications.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Tech-X Corporation
5621 Arapahoe Ave Suite A
Boulder, CO 80303-1379
(303)448-0727

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
John R Cary
cary@txcorp.com
5621 aprapahoe
Boulder, CO 80303-1379
(303)448-0728

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The Interactive Data Language (IDL) is a standard tool used by many researchers in observational fields. Present day Sun-Earch Connection missions like RHESSI or SOHO, or future missions, including the Solar Dynamics (SDO) almost exclusively analyze their data in IDL. However, the increasing amount of data produced by these missions, and the increasing complexity of image processing algorithms, requires higher computing power. Cluster computing is a cost-effective way to increase the speed of computation, but algorithms have to be modified to take advantage of parallel systems. Enhancing IDL to work on clusters gives scientists access to increased performance in a familiar programming environment. We propose to develop tools that enable IDL to profit from cluster systems. These tools will allow IDL applications to run in parallel without additional licenses. Finally, the parallelization will require no significant modification of the original programs. Enhanced data analysispower enables e.g. automatic image analysis on larger data sets. It can also help to reduce the response time to analyze data on demand,as desirable in virtual observatory environments. The wide spread of IDL allows scientists from other fields to profit from the increased execution speed.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The problem of increasing amounts of data that needs to be analyzed exists in all branches of NASA. Increasing the computing capabilities of the data analysis software is therefore of interest to all NASA branches. The widespread use of IDL throughout NASA makes the tools developed in this project applicable, not only to the Sun-Earth Connection theme but within the whole agency. In addition, the development of a low-cost alternative to the commercial IDL software is a cost reduction factor beneficial all NASA branches.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
IDL is widely used at National Laboratories, universities and private industry. Research branches processing observational data, including medical imaging, chemistry, and earth science, face the same problem of increasing amounts of data to be processed. Their interest is also to reduce the time needed to perform the analysis, making them potential customers for the tools developed in this project. The cost savings resulting from this project could make it even more attractive,especially to private industry.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
SCIBERNET, INC.
777 South Highway 101, Suite 108
Solana Beach, CA 92075-2623
(858)793-7063

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
homa karimabadi
homak@scibernet.com
777 South Highway 101, Suite 108
Solana Beach, CA 92075-2623
(858)793-7063

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
We propose to develop a state-of-the-art data mining engine that extends the functionality of Virtual Observatories (VO) from data portal to science analysis resource. Our solution consists of two integrated products, IDDat and RemoteMiner:

(1) IDDat is an advanced grid-based computing infrastructure which acts as an add-on to VOs and supports processing and remote data analysis of widely distributed data in space sciences. IDDat middleware design is such as to reduce undue network traffic on the VO.

(2) RemoteMiner is a novel data mining engine that connects to the VO via the IDDat. It supports multi-users, has autonomous operation for automated systematic identification while enabling the advanced users to do their own mining and can be used by data centers for pre-mining.


These innovations will significantly enhance the science return from NASA missions by providing data centers and individual researchers alike an unprecedented capability to mine vast quantities of data. Phase I is aimed at complete definition of the design of the product and a demonstration of a prototype of the proposed major innovations. Phase II work will encompass the building of a full commercial product with associated production quality technical and user documentation.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA is a data centric organization and as such shares with many industries an urgent need for sophisticated data mining technologies to deal with the tsunami of data. Today, the vast majority of spacecraft data from past missions remain unexplored and this situation will worsen with the many planned multi-spacecraft missions (Themis, MMS, ST5, etc.). Our proposed solution provides the necessary data analysis infrastructure and tools for the existing and the planned missions. It leverages on-going efforts in the grid computing community. Our technology is also expected to be relevant to other divisions within NASA such as the Intelligent Systems Project which supports development of autonomous systems.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
All industries that deal with data are potential customers of our product. No commercial data mining engine offers all of these facilities and a few systems support only a small fraction of the solution. Given the customization of our solution to VO, NASA will clearly remain one of our main target areas beyond Phase II. However, we have already identified several other important markets for deployment of our product including NSF, and DOE within the Federal Government as well as pharmaceutical, bioinformatics, health care, fraud detection and network intrusion detection in the commercial sector.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Lake Shore Cryotronics Inc
575 McCorkle Blvd.
Westerville, OH 43082-8699
(614)891-2243

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Vladimir Kochergin
vkochergin@lakeshore.com
575 McCorkle Blvd.
Westerville, PR 43082-8699
(614)891-2243

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This SBIR Phase I proposal describes a novel method to make deep and far UV optical filters from macroporous silicon. This type of filter consists of an array of parallel, independent leaky waveguides made in the form of a free-standing, two-dimensionally ordered silicon structure with pore walls coated by a dielectric multilayer. The proposed filters offer unmatched levels of rejection within a very wide rejection band combined with a high level of transmission within the pass band that can be centered throughout the deep and far UV range. In addition, unlike common interference-based filters, the spectral position of the pass and rejection bands will not depend on the angle of incidence. The proposed filters will be light weight and may be manufactured cost-effectively in large quantities. In Phase I, it is proposed to demonstrate the feasibility of the method by fabricating pore structures with different pore wall coatings and measuring the transmission and other optical properties. In Phase II, optimized filters will be fabricated and their properties compared with design predictions. Phase III will involve product design, fabricating filter structures to meet customers' physical as well as optical needs, and marketing and sales investments.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Deep and far UV imaging is a powerful technique to study auroral activity and compositions of atmospheres around solar system planets and moons. UV index forecasting, earth impact and other vital environmental information can be obtained. Available filters suffer from problems stemming from either a narrow band of high rejection or a wide band of shallow rejection, and degradation of the filter performance with the variations of angle of incidence. Problems with available UV transparent materials (moisture absorption, delamination) lead to difficulty in making robust or large area filters. The proposed filters can solve these problems and reduce costs.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
UV filters are used for harmful UV radiation detection, water purification, proof-of-flame, water analysis, postal security systems, environmental monitoring, semiconductor lithographic instrumentation, medical analyzers and monitors (ophthalmology), high voltage corona detection and electrical spark imaging. Superior filters based on porous semiconductor technology may be adjusted for almost any wavelength throughout the extreme UV-to-visible spectrum, thus enhancing the performance of fluorescence instruments used for applications such as DNA sequencing, microplate readers, flow cytometry, human genome mapping, and pharmaceutical development They will be useful in biomedical research and Raman spectroscopy used in imaging applications, and process control in the chemical industry.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
DIFFRACTION PRODUCTS INC.
9416 W Bull Valley Rd - PO Box 1030
Woodstock, IL 60098-1030
(815)338-6768

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Edward Leibhardt
dpinc@aol.com
9416 W Bull Valley Rd - PO Box 1030
Woodstock, IL 60098-1030
(815)338-6768

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
A high efficiency low scatter echelle grating will be developed using a novel technique of multiple diamond shaving cuts. The grating will have mirror surfaces on both faces for high efficiency in high orders. The grating will be manufactured using a 3/4 ton air bearing grating carriage that oscillates at 30 strokes per minute between two non-contact magnetic fields. The groove spacing will be controlled by an interferometer measuring system and feedback system between the optical blank and diamond cutting tool.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
NASA will be able to consider this new technology for applications that demand high efficiency with coarse diffraction gratings. Novel applications that require both sides of the grooves to be highly efficient can also be considered for the first time.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Non-NASA commercial enterprises will also be able to consider this new technology for applications that demand high efficiency with coarse diffraction gratings. Novel applications that require both sides of the grooves to be highly efficient can also be considered for the first time.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
SSG Inc
65 Jonspin Road
Wilmington, MA 01887-1020
(978)694-9991

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jay Daniel
jdaniel@ssginc.com
4040 Lakeside Drive
Richmond, CA 94806-1936
(510)222-8110

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
A number of future space sciences missions require optical surfaces that are accurate to nanometer and sub-nanometer levels. These applications include large aperture systems such as the Terrestrial Planet Finder (TPF) chronograph, where mid-spatial frequency surface error content is restricted to 2 nm RMS, and EUV wavelength applications, like SHARPI, where full aperture surface errors need to be reduced to the single nanometer level. In most cases these optical systems require components which are generalized aspheres, with no simple point tests. Computer Generated Holographic (CGH) null optics are typically applied to test these optical surfaces. As the quality requirements placed upon these optics gets tighter, the precision associated with CGH manufacturing needs to improve as well. CGH's are produced using laser or e-beam based pattern generation tools which were originally developed for photomask generation in the lithography industry. Tinsley Laboratories proposes to develop CGH improvements in the area of substrate preparation and pattern placement errors. Tinsley, an industry leader in the application of CGH testing approaches, will work closely with Diffraction International, Inc. the industry leader in the area of CGH manufacturing. Tinsley's experience with the application of CGH tools, and our state-of-the-art Computer Controlled Optical Surfacing (CCOS) manufacturing processes, make us well suited to address issues related to implementation and substrate preparation. Diffraction International will provide support with regard to techniques which can provide improvements in the pattern placement area, and the evaluation of alternative manufacturing platforms that might be utilized to provide higher quality diffractive nulls. Our overall goal is to provide a 10x reduction in the residual error associated with current state-of-the-technology CGH null optics.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
The enhanced precision promised by the proposed process improvements has direct application to chronographic applications like the Terrestrial Planet Finder and future EUV missions such as SHARPI and SOLAR-B.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Commercial applications include projection and inspection optics for EUV lithography tools. EUV lithography tools are currently targeting moving from proof-of-principle into production, in the 2010 timeframe. At that point demand could be in the 100's instruments/year with multiple optics required for each instrument.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
TechnoScience Corporation
P.O. Box 60658
Palo Alto, CA 94306-2306
(650)838-9833

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jam Farhoomand
jfarhoomand@mail.arc.nasa.gov
P.O. Box 60658
Palo Alto, CA 94306-2306
(650)838-9833

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
This proposal introduces an innovative concept aimed to significantly enhance the quantum efficiency of a far-infrared GaAs photoconductor and achieve sensitivity levels of 10E-18 W/SQRT(Hz) or better. We propose to employ a microwave source to assist the photoionization process by pumping the infrared-generated electrons from the excited states to the continuum. Since the microwave photons are low in energy, they are not available to directly ionize the ground state of the shallow donors. Therefore, the microwave pumping process is not expected to generate additional leakage current and the associated noise. This will allow us to cool the detector as low as necessary to reduce the thermal leakage current and improve the detector's noise performance. GaAs covers the 100-310?m spectrum where no other photodetector operates, it can be fabricated in large arrays, and is compatible with the established silicon readout technology.

The proposed concept can be applied in a broader scope to other photodetectors, such as Ge:Ga, to exploit their excited state photoconductivity and extend their long wavelength response. This effort fits well within the scope of the SBIR Subtopic S2.01 and will be a benefit to many large and small NASA projects such as SOFIA and SAFIR.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Space instruments developed under Origins Program such as SAFIR, science instruments for SOFIA, upcoming projects under Astrobiology Program, balloon-borne instruments for atmospheric research, and laboratory science instruments.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (LIMIT 100 WORDS)
Aerospace industry: In addition to the aerospace companies that are under contract to NASA and directly participate in the space program, there are those that independently manufacture infrared detector arrays in large formats. Some aerospace companies that would be interested in our product are Raytheon Vision Systems, Boeing, Rockwell, and Ball Aerospace. Science groups at universities and national labs: Astronomical science instruments for observations at ground-based observatories and instruments for basic research.

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
VIRGINIA DIODES INC.
321 West Main Street
Charlottesville, VA 22903-5537
(434)297-3257

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Jeffrey L Hesler
Hesler@VADiodes.com
321 West Main Street
Charlottesville, VA 22903-5537
(434)297-3257

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The best low-noise receiver solutions for frequencies above about 800 GHz rely on either a low-noise bolometric direct detector or a hot electron bolometric mixer. These receivers yield near quantum limited noise performance and have ultra broad signal bandwidth [ , , ]. However, due to their extreme sensitivity and