NASA 2016 STTR Phase II Solicitation

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 4
End: 5

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI), in collaboration Purdue University, proposes to develop a novel launch propulsion technology for rapid insertion of nano/micro satellites (~ 5-100 kg scale) into low earth orbit, with the potential to lower the current state-of-the-art launch stage cost by 2X. The technology employs a propulsion scheme comprising a storable liquid oxidizer and a unique solid fuel with excellent mechanical and thermochemical properties. The proposed application to launch vehicle stages will result in low-cost, mass-efficient launch systems and will reduce technical development risk for NASA. The fuel and oxidizer are commercially available at low cost as an inexpensive engineering material and as an industrial chemical. Both have high density, are green, and the system has a high specific impulse (> 275s; vacuum). The oxidizer storage, handling, transportation, and loading operations are simpler and safer compared to cryogenic/toxic propellants. The foregoing  attributes enable the lower cost of the proposed hybrid launch vehicle stage. The performance of current hybrids is limited by their typically low fuel regression rates. In Phase I, we investigated techniques for significantly augmenting the regression rate, demonstrating ~ 3.5X increase in 30 lbf thruster firings. Using this data, we performed design trades for a hybrid stage as the second/upper launch vehicle stage. The enhanced regression rate allowed a more compact, lighter, higher thrust-to-weight stage than would be possible with current hybrids. In Phase II, we will perform detailed experiments to optimize propulsive performance on the same Phase I hybrid thruster, and demonstrate a large scale (~1000 lbf) motor, representative of upper stages of a launch vehicle incorporating the optimized design. Phase II will end with a flight prototype design and a plan for a sub-orbital flight test, or a comprehensive ground test in simulated environment.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The non-NASA applications for the proposed launch vehicle stage technology include Air Force, Navy, and National Reconnaissance Organization missions to insert nano satellites into LEO over a range of inclinations and to in-space propulsion, where high thrust at moderate impulse is required. The commercial sector and educational institutions would also benefit from a substantially lower cost access to low earth orbit. The superior thermomechanical properties of the fuel will produce lighter propulsion systems for all applications.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The NASA application for the proposed launch vehicle stage technology is for insertion of nano/micro satellites into LEO over a range of inclinations. Initial applications are likely to be upper stages of launch vehicles. However, the technology can also be applied to other stages and to in-space propulsion, where high thrust at moderate impulse is required. The superior thermomechanical properties of our fuel are attractive for lighter propulsion systems as structural containment requirements are lowered and additional liner/insulation materials are unnecessary.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Fuels/Propellants
Launch Engine/Booster

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 7

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Chemical contamination of spacecraft components as well as thermal and force loading from firing liquid propellant thrusters are critical concerns for in-space propulsion applications. Gas molecular contamination and liquid droplet deposition due to incomplete combustion threaten to damage surface materials, sensitive instruments and optical sensors, and poses major risks for mission success. Liquid propellant thrusters operate in space at near-vacuum conditions, and contaminants traverse a complex mixed continuum-rarefied environment upon exiting the thruster nozzle. Current CFD modeling capabilities for in-space propulsion analysis have made great strides, but fall short of providing the fidelity required to simulate the contaminant transport around the spacecraft with sufficient efficiency and accuracy. This STTR will develop and deliver an innovative computational architecture for prediction of plume flow impingement and contaminant dispersal through mixed flow environments for in-space propulsion analysis. CFDRC will supplement the massively parallel Loci framework with a unified solver for prediction of mixed continuum-rarefied flows with contaminant dispersal. This will enable better understanding of thermal and force loading and contamination of spacecraft components, and enable design of safer next-generation in-space propulsion systems. A proof-of-concept was developed and successfully demonstrated during Phase I for in-space thruster plume contamination environments. Phase II will deliver production continuum-kinetic-particle predictive capabilities with adaptive mesh/algorithm refinement for multi-component molecular gases, which will provide NASA with next-generation tools for detailed investigations of contaminant environments for spacecraft configurations.    

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Potential Non-NASA government and commercial applications include, assessment of thruster plume induced environments on commercial and military spacecraft, predicting the impact of particles scattered from thruster plumes on ballistic missile and missile interceptor signatures, and optimization of commercial satellite operational life through contamination minimization.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The proposed computational architecture for prediction of plume flow impingement and contaminant dispersal through mixed continuum-rarefied flow environments combines multiple novel computational approaches into one unified simulation environment. This technology will be highly beneficial to NASA and its contractors for prediction and analysis of contaminants and particulate transport and interaction in near-vacuum conditions for in-space propulsion applications. Direct benefits include risk reduction through improved fidelity simulations of thruster plume molecular and droplet contamination reaching spacecraft surface insulation, optical sensors and sensitive instruments. Direct NASA applications include supporting spacecraft design with most advantageous thruster placement and design mitigation measures such as shielding through simulation based engineering. Other NASA applications include simulation of effectiveness of RCS thrusters in reentry capsule rarefied wake region.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Tools/EVA Tools
Models & Simulations (see also Testing & Evaluation)
Prototyping
Software Tools (Analysis, Design)
Smart/Multifunctional Materials
Deployment
Structures
Hardware-in-the-Loop Testing
Simulation & Modeling

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 2
End: 4

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

In the Phase I effort, Gloyer-Taylor Laboratories LLC (GTL) verified the feasibility of generating power from space particle radiation.  This effort successfully demonstrated electrical power production from a particle radiation source using an initial proof-of-concept device.  The effort also identified a second approach that has the potential for even better power generation and offers enhanced high energy radiation protection.

In the proposed Phase II effort, GTL and the University of Tennessee Knoxville (UTK) will further investigate and develop these breakthrough capabilities. This will include developing scientific models of how these devices function and testing samples to characterize and optimize their design. Based on these results, GTL and UTK shall produce an engineering prototype coupon device for NASA evaluation.

When fully developed, these techniques will provide NASA with access to an alternative power source, increasing available power from ambient sources (even in deep space) and enhancing power efficiency of on-board radiation power sources.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The active radiation shield techniques can also provide power for commercial and DoD spacecraft, including large geostationary spacecraft and nanosatellites. This technology could also open the door to routine spacecraft operations in the radiation belts. The radiation protection features could be used to enhance spacecraft resilience or protection of personnel.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The proposed active radiation shield techniques will provide NASA with access to an alternative power source for space missions, increasing available power from ambient sources (even in deep space) and enhancing power efficiency of on-board radiation power sources. This technology could enhance power production on deep space science spacecraft using either ambient radiation or on-board radiation sources. The technology could also scavenge additional power on small spacecraft, including cubesats. The radiation protection aspects of the technology could dramatically reduce the radiation risk to astronauts in space.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Spacecraft Design, Construction, Testing, & Performance (see also Engineering; Testing & Evaluation)
Conversion
Distribution/Management
Generation
Organics/Biomaterials/Hybrids
Polymers
Smart/Multifunctional Materials
Isolation/Protection/Shielding (Acoustic, Ballistic, Dust, Radiation, Thermal)
Structures

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 5

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

The objective of this Phase 2 proposal is to provide a new set of sensitivity analysis theory and codes, the Sensitivity Analysis for Design Optimization (SADO) software that integrates with the existing NASA O3 Tool. In this Phase II effort, the sensitivity codes developed in Phase I will add functionality to simplify Ground Vibration Test, or model tuning, by calculating a number of error metric that can be used as objective functions in the tuning process. The approach will be implemented for two basic types of responses, namely basic direct responses from the analysis (weight, frequencies, stresses) and special indices (MAC, Correlation Index, CG, Inertias) whose calculation was implemented during Phase I. Additionally, we will implement a domain specific language and interface specifications to simply the programming of optimization problems and incorporating additional analysis software tools for multiobjective applications. We will all implement software tools to use sensitivity analysis as system evaluation tool and for the development of reduced order models. We will use this software for two NASA relevant design projects, the ATW2 wing and the Hybrid Wing Body air vehicle.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Sensitivity analysis is required for efficient optimal design and reliability analysis. Optimization is today widely used in the aerospace industry, automotive industry, sports equipment design and medical equipment design, just to mention a few. Building sensitivity analysis modules that can flexibly connect with analysis and finite elements has a tremendous potential for these industries since we can provide tailored solutions for their particular needs. Not only has the optimization become more efficient but also sensitivities provide guidance on determining the importance of variables by their effect on other system components.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Specifically at NASA we see direct application in the efficient integration into the optimization environment of analysis modules already built in the Object-Oriented Optimization Tool. At the conclusion of Phase 2 we see immediate benefit to Ground Vibration Testing. We intend to simplify the coding mechanism for optimization through the implementation of an "optimization language" and provide tools that automatically check and propagate the design variables to the proper analysis codes without having to "hand code" the same variables in multiple places. Having standalone sensitivity modules will also provide NASA flexibility in evaluating constraints and responses not necessarily available in standard commercial codes. Additional improvements will increase runtime performance of optimization iterations. We will apply the system to the NASA ATW2 and HWB models as a demonstration and system benchmark.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Aerodynamics
Spacecraft Design, Construction, Testing, & Performance (see also Engineering; Testing & Evaluation)
Characterization
Models & Simulations (see also Testing & Evaluation)
Prototyping
Software Tools (Analysis, Design)
Machines/Mechanical Subsystems
Structures
Acoustic/Vibration
Simulation & Modeling

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 6

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

The proposed novel program will develop and demonstrate an innovative approach to perform real-time relative vehicle localization within a swarm formation with application to communication-less coordination. These objectives are achieved by using Random Finite Sets statistics theory to solve the multiple object tracking problem. The swarm formation localization problem can be formulated as estimating the local intensity function of targets in the near field and developing probabilistic control strategies to track an expected localization state space configuration. Work will focus on refining estimation and control algorithms that can utilize simple measurements, such as range and bearing angle between units, and determine the local environment using feature measurements. Four major tasks are proposed for the development of swarming space vehicle estimation and control: Random Finite Set Localization and Control Theory and Algorithms, Swarm Scenario Implementations, Swarm Design Control and Simulate Toolset, and Swarm Localization and Control Demonstrations. Algorithms developed and analyzed in Phase I will be extended to a wide range of environmental models and swarm vehicle dynamics, including planetary rovers and orbiting spacecraft. The swarm technology will be implemented for real-time integrated system use, with identification of different formation configurations and sensor combination for hardware integration. A swarm design software tool will be created to allow users to utilize the developed technology in proposed mission analysis. Demonstrations of the benefits of the technology will be presented in software and hardware demonstrations, including small mobile robots used to emulate large swarms. Future demonstration missions identified in the Phase II will show the mission enhancements of the operational system.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Non-NASA applications for this technology include increased coordination and control for units of multiple unmanned aerial systems performing search and rescue operations and disaster relief for the Department of Homeland Security and other government agencies or local municipalities. Robotic or autonomous land, sea, and air vehicle coordination for the Department of Defense, and reduction of communication and relay requirements is an added application. Remote sensing systems, including agronomy and geological surveying applications, will use multiple vehicles for coordinated observations, which these multi-element swarm technologies can significantly aid. Commercial telecommunication satellite providers that desire to transmit large data rate information between multiple vehicles, such as imaging or internet-like inter-satellite networks, could realize the formation control benefits through this enabling technology. Tracking and localizing for medical-based concepts, such as embedded medical agents.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
NASA applications consist of enabling autonomous precision swarm coordination for satellites traveling in Earth orbit or eventually into deep space, including significantly improved precision for multi-vehicle control. The produced swarm formation coordination and control algorithms and software will provide expanded mission planning and analysis capabilities, reduction of communication requirements, and decrease of mission risk. These concepts can equally support a wide range of applications, including small numbered teams and large-element swarms, and can operate during the normal birth and death rates anticipated for homogenous and heterogeneous swarms containing many elements. The system offers significant value in providing or augmenting current navigation and control techniques, as well as reducing support costs and system station-keeping down-time. The system offers precise formation control for assisting multiple spacecraft formation flying anywhere in the solar system, with limited mission control intervention after primary objectives are defined. The proposed system benefits autonomous planetary rover swarms, asteroid and comet exploration, Earth and planetary body orbiting swarms, and unmanned inspection of spacecraft.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Entry, Descent, & Landing (see also Planetary Navigation, Tracking, & Telemetry)
Navigation & Guidance
Relative Navigation (Interception, Docking, Formation Flying; see also Control & Monitoring; Planetary Navigation, Tracking, & Telemetry)
Autonomous Control (see also Control & Monitoring)
Robotics (see also Control & Monitoring; Sensors)
Algorithms/Control Software & Systems (see also Autonomous Systems)
Models & Simulations (see also Testing & Evaluation)
Software Tools (Analysis, Design)
Ranging/Tracking
Telemetry (see also Control & Monitoring)

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 5
End: 6

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

This Small Business Technology Transfer Research Phase II will develop and advance the commercialization of STF-ArmorTM nanocomposite materials for use in Environmental Protection Garments (EPG) for extended exploration missions in diverse environments, including LEO, cis-lunar space, and Lunar and Martian surfaces.  The Phase II research will optimize and deliver a validated prototype suit component with an EPG containing STF-ArmorTM textiles that offer superior crew protection to meet the rigorous needs of future missions.  The Phase II development of STF-ArmorTM EPGs directly addresses key EVA suit technology gaps related to dust, puncture, MMOD and secondary ejecta at both the material and testing/methods levels.  The research objectives are structured to deliver a high TRL at the end of Phase II, culminating with the delivery of suit component prototypes that are compatible with existing test hardware and continued Phase III suit system development and commercialization through infusion into future Advanced EVA Suit Development programs.  The proposed Phase II leverages the results of synergistic NASA-sponsored research (including ISS materials testing) conducted at the University of Delaware, combined with a commercialization pathway provided by STF Technologies and our commercialization partners, to develop advanced EPG materials that improve crew safety without increasing weight or joint torque. STF-ArmorTM textiles offer a mass-efficient means for improving the puncture, MMOD, and dust resistance of EVA suits as superior shell and absorber layers with good flexibility, as demonstrated in Phase I.  STF-treatment in combination with superhydrophobic coating of textiles creates EPG materials with exceptional dust resistance and self-cleaning properties that will be further developed and optimized in Phase II.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Terrestrial applications of the innovation include a wide array of personal protective equipment (PPE). Chem-bio suits, which are multi-layer softgoods akin to spacesuits, also require effective puncture resistance/durability to ensure safety while the wearer completes the required cleanup task. The dust repellant coatings investigated in this Phase II research can potentially serve to limit contamination by materials on the suit, which may also find use in chem-bio suits used in pharmaceutical manufacturing and in handling toxic powders more generally. Firefighting gear is another potential market for the STF-ArmorTM materials developed in Phase II. Similar to the EPG dust problem, small soot particles from fires can penetrate deep within the fibers of firefighting suits where they are difficult to wash out and can release toxic chemicals over time. Firefighters and law enforcement protective clothing can also benefit from the improved puncture properties of the STF-ArmorTM materials. The hazmat suit and police/firefighter protective clothing markets are valued at nearly $7 billion and $1 billion, respectively, and are attractive markets for our disruptive protective material innovation. Further applications include protective industrial clothing, such as gloves, gloveboxes or chaps designed to protect against both physical and chemical hazards.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The primary target market for the proposed innovation is in the EPG for advanced EVA suits for future, extended duration, surface exploration missions. Specifically, STF-ArmorTM provides multi-functional protection within EPG lay-ups. STF-ArmorTM has excellent resistance to puncture, dust infiltration, ballistic and MMOD threats combined with superior flexibility, as compared with conventional textile materials. Phase I results showed that STFs meeting outgassing and thermal requirements increased the standard force to puncture Orthofabric by 198% with only 10% added mass and no change in flexibility.

The properties of STF-ArmorTM textiles are beneficial to a number of NASA applications beyond EPGs. STF-ArmorTM can potentially improve the MMOD resistance when used as a layer within the shell of an inflatable space habitat. STF-Kevlar can potentially replace conventional Kevlar and improve MMOD resistance in a stuffed Whipple shield for spacecraft protection. An inflatable surface habitat would also benefit from the proven ballistic resistance of STF-ArmorTM to improve protection against secondary ejecta.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Protective Clothing/Space Suits/Breathing Apparatus
Prototyping
Coatings/Surface Treatments
Smart/Multifunctional Materials
Textiles
Destructive Testing

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 5
End: 6

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Paragon Space Development Corporation and our partner Research Institution Texas Tech University (TTU) propose to continue development of a spacecraft habitat wastewater recycling system that integrates 1) a TTU Membrane Aerated Biological Reactor (MABR), 2) Nafion Membrane Water Purification (NWP) distillation technology, and 3) gas-phase trace contaminant removal (GTCR) to realize a low-mass, low-volume, closed-loop, sustainable, and ultra-reliable water recycling and purification system. It is the coupling of these well developed and understood processes that is novel and offers a significant advantage over state of the art (SOA) spacecraft water processing systems. The Integrated Water Recovery Assembly (IRA) will reduce consumable consumption by removing the need for hazardous chemical pretreat and may eliminate the need for aqueous-phase treatment now used to reach potable standards. It will also significantly reduce waste generation and increase material recycling by converting carbon, hydrogen, and nitrogen species into useful products such as H2O, N2, and CO2. IRA will be less complex, require fewer consumables, be more robust, and more sustainable than SOA systems. IRA should produce a concentrated and dried solid waste stream that is always contained and consists of salts and residual organic matter. MABR and NWP have developed as independent subsystems for human spaceflight wastewater processing but their unique attributes have not been optimized to function together as an integrated wastewater recycling system. Neither is individually capable of producing potable water, but combined with mature GTCR technology, we propose that IRA represents a significant advancement over SOA of the art spacecraft wastewater processing systems. In summary, the innovation we propose is to combine and optimize all three stages into a novel integrated system capable of processing habitation wastewater and producing clean water for all habitat needs.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Potential Non-NASA aerospace customers include Boeing, Lockheed Martin, Orbital-ATK, Bigelow, & SpaceX. It is also possible that commercial entities like Inspiration Mars, Golden Spike, or Mars One could come through with significant investment funds for the maturation of their commercial exploration plans. Paragon is well positioned to incorporate IRA into their technical solutions as we have recent and ongoing work with entities such as this.
In addition to aerospace applications, development of a highly regenerative and simple wastewater recycling system has numerous terrestrial applications, including disaster relief, remote military base support, and the deployment of green building hygiene water recycling systems.
Paragon has the experience and technical capabilities and skills to mature IRA to flight in partnership with TTU and to market it for aerospace and terrestrial applications. We recognize it is essential to foster and develop business relations with customers, suppliers, and key subcontractors. To that end, we continue to develop a solid supplier base and have established working relationships with Research Institutions such as TTU that bring with them critical skills and capabilities of their own

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Paragon's commercialization strategy for the development and incorporation of IRA into NASA's exploration-class habitats is summarized as follows:
Technical Maturation - Building upon the completed Phase I where the functional integration of IRA's bioregenerative and distillation subsystems has been successfully demonstrated, we must add gas phase trace contaminant removal functionality and demonstrate the integrated operation of a functional prototype. The Phase II effort must mature IRA and deliver a full-scale functional prototype that quantifies performance and advantages over competing technologies.
Market Development - The primary near-term market for IRA is NASA's Human Spaceflight program. Paragon actively engages with NASA through funded technology development efforts such as proposed here, flight hardware production contracts to Lockheed Martin (Orion) and Boeing (CST-100), and through active participation of industry conferences and workshops. We believe the most promising near-term opportunity to inject IRA into an operational systems is to demonstrate a Phase III system in a NASA long-duration ground test bed in the 2019 timeframe. Long-duration demonstration testing would pave the way for IRA to be integrated with the exploration habitats that will ultimately be developed for NASA.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Biophysical Utilization
Essential Life Resources (Oxygen, Water, Nutrients)
Remediation/Purification
Waste Storage/Treatment
Characterization
Models & Simulations (see also Testing & Evaluation)
Prototyping
Quality/Reliability
Fluids
Organics/Biomaterials/Hybrids

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 4
End: 5

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

The proposed innovation is a membrane bioreactor system to produce a biopolymer from methane gas that is applicable in outer space environments. This new methane fermentation process will expand and advance current gas delivery techniques to create affordable fermentation methods on Earth and beyond. Mango Materials is currently working to scale up and commercialize the production of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) from methane, but its scaled-up fermentation systems are typically tall and narrow to take advantage of hydrostatic pressure for the transfer of methane into solution. The proposed work represents a unique approach that could enable the production of biopolymer on Earth and also non-Earth environments, thus creating a closed-loop system for producing biopolymer products on-demand in outer space. The proposed design is a novel, membrane-based bioreactor that will enable bacterial growth and biopolymer production to occur in micro- or low-gravity environments by providing gases through membranes. Growth and biopolymer production using methane as a feedstock will be demonstrated at high efficiencies. The proposed work will also identify methods by which process wastes can be recycled back to minimize the required inputs. Finally, a thorough feasibility analysis will be conducted to evaluate the use of the process on a long-term space mission. Mango Materials will partner with Colorado School of Mines, where there is extensive experience with membrane bioreactors, to design and construct this system.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are a substitute for conventional plastic goods including microbeads, packaging, childrens? toys, electronic casings, coatings, and agricultural films. These materials can be fully biodigestable and will be converted back into carbon using microbial processes. This carbon can enter the natural carbon cycle and prevent additional carbon to affect the atmospheres of Earth or other planetary bodies.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Use of membrane bioreactor (MBR) systems to enable production of various methane fermented products such as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) for use in many plastic-like applications, nutritional supplements, essential amino acids, bioremediation, and products for advanced life support. For example, sustainable PHAs can be produced and formed into filaments that could be used for 3-D printing applications on the International Space Station (ISS). Also, this MBR system and ultimate PHA production will contribute to the resource recovery and waste processing goals of advanced life support at NASA.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Biophysical Utilization
Biomass Growth
Food (Preservation, Packaging, Preparation)
Waste Storage/Treatment
Coatings/Surface Treatments
Composites
Organics/Biomaterials/Hybrids
Polymers

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 4
End: 6

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Mapping spectrometers have been extremely useful in multiple NASA applications, from Earth composition mapping to identifying hydrocarbon lakes on Titan.  Traditionally, imaging spectroscopy systems are not only heavy but also large in order to accommodate the long path lengths needed for spectral separation. There are several varieties, such as push-broom and scanning imaging spectrometers, but hyperspectral framing cameras are still relatively rare and are often untenably bulky. However, framing cameras place fewer restrictions on platform motion and can complete their data acquisition more rapidly, which allows more time and power to be dedicated to other instruments. A chip-scale full-frame hyperspectral imager would provide the ideal balance: small, light, no moving parts, low power requirements, and suitable for numerous mission architectures. In the Phase I program, Nanohmics, teaming with Dr. Hewagama at the University of Maryland, developed a chip-scale hyperspectral imaging technology for ultra-compact VIS hyperspectral cameras for smallsat and CubeSat applications. The technology provides spectral dispersion with full spatial-spectral registration orders of magnitude smaller and lighter than grating or prism options.  During the Phase II program, the team will mature the technology to enable commercialization of the sensor and evaluate the feasibility of extending the technology to infrared spectral bands.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The low-cost hyperspectral technology will have a significant opportunity in the international commercial, military, and industrial markets. For example, agricultural industries can benefit from crop health monitoring, environmental protection groups can monitor chemical dumping and cleanup, medical applications can improve measurement of biomarkers, military surveillance applications can benefit from spectrally-resolved target identification, and industry can improve quality control with low-cost in-line spectral analysis of manufactured goods.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The measurements produced by the chip-scale hyperspectral imager will enable surface characterization in support of planetary probes or sample return from asteroids, moons, and comets. Spatially and spectrally resolved scattered light provides ice particle size distributions and compositional analysis, and gives insights about resurfacing events and water cycle processes. A framing camera enables movies of fast processes, including auroras, lightning, and rotating bodies, without requiring additional platform motion for each frame (allowing other instruments to remain focused) and provides spectral analysis for composition and aerosol size analysis. Search for organics and biomarkers through spectral composition analysis helps focus mission resources on the right areas and samples without changing color wheels. A framing camera enables movies of transient processes, including fluid phenomena like geysers.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Detectors (see also Sensors)
Optical/Photonic (see also Photonics)
Radiometric
Visible
Infrared
Multispectral/Hyperspectral

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 5

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

In this project, Applied Research LLC (ARLLC), the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK), and the Arizona State University (ASU) propose high performance image processing algorithms that will support current and future Mastcam imagers. The algorithms fuse the acquired Mastcam stereo images at different wavelengths to generate multispectral image cubes, which can then be used for high quality virtual reality (immersive) visualization in 3D, data clustering, anomaly detection, and rough composition estimation from relatively long distance when compared to LIBS instrument. One major challenge in constructing a multispectral image cube from the two Mastcams is the alignment of the images in the stereo image pair which needs to have registration errors in the subpixel level. To address the challenge in the stereo image alignment, we propose a two-step image registration framework. In this framework, we also provide a set of image processing techniques, including pansharpening, debayering, data clustering, and anomaly detection. In Phase II, we will further validate the above algorithms using Mastcam-Z data. Moreover, we will develop new data products for generating 12-band image cubes, high resolution stereo images, and new layers for Java Mission-planning and Analysis for Remote Sensing (JMARS).

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Our technology will be useful for border monitoring and security monitoring using high resolution images. It can also be useful in the biometrics (face detection and recognition) using stereo and/or multimodal stereo images. It can be also used by military for surveillance and reconnaissance that utilize multiple cameras with different views to the same scene. Another important field that our technology can have an impact is the biomedical field. In some biomedical applications, sequential imaging techniques are commonly used to detect changes in the spatial distribution of various molecules and biological materials. As an example, multispectral imaging is used to detect hemoglobin, melanin; narrowband imaging is used for cancer detection; multispectral fluorescence imaging is used to indicate molecular targeting in flexible endoscopy. All these techniques need to acquire multiple images of a sample at different wavelengths and/or polarization states in order to construct a complete spectrum for each pixel.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Our system can be used in NASA's existing and future planetary rover missions. The new Mars rover that is expected to be sent to Mars in 2020 will also contain stereo Mastcam instrument that has Mastcam-Z. In addition, the two-step registration approach can be used in remote sensing applications for environmental monitoring and for damage assessment after a natural disaster where precise registration is critical. Moreover, the pansharpening algorithms will be useful for fusing Landsat and MODIS images, and THEMIS and TES images. We will create new layers (stereo and 3D images, 12-band high resolution Mastcam images) in JMARS so that scientists can interact with JMARS to have better user experiences. Finally, we will also create a data product related to the high resolution 12-band Mastcam image in PDS.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Man-Machine Interaction
Coding & Compression
3D Imaging
Display
Image Analysis
Image Processing
Data Fusion
Visible
Infrared
Multispectral/Hyperspectral

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 2
End: 4

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Next generation optical modems for NASA will be based on the RZ-DPSK modulation format. This modulation format is robust, delivers high quantum efficiency and allows burst-mode operation, key when using a power limited transmitter in combination with a fixed delay line DPSK demodulator. Freedom Photonics approach in this proposed program is to integrate the laser, modulator, and amplifier into a single transmitter photonic integrated circuit (PIC). Photonic integration reduces the cost, size, weight, and power (C-SWaP) of the transmitter optical component so that they can fit into a package the size of a half-dollar coin or smaller. It will be realized using an Indium Phosphide photonic integration platform, well suited for space application.  The Phase II effort will culminate in a FSO demonstration in a laboratory environment demonstrating transmission of RZ-DPSK signals.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The FSO transmitter technology is also applicable to a range of commercial FSO link applications, both space based and terrestrial. 1550nm is eye safe, which will allow up to two orders of magnitudes higher emitted power while maintaining eye safety for terrestrial communications links. For this reason, the developed transmitter technology will be ideally suited for implementation in long-range FSO link applications.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
This proposed work will make space science and exploration more effective, affordable, and sustainable in that it will enable low cost and low SWaP technologies for space communications, freeing up resources for other onboard systems. The PIC technology will also better utilize the high bandwidth afforded by optics and scale readily to higher data rates. This technology will allow more frequent and lower cost missions and allow for incorporating free space laser modems on smaller satellites (ex. cubesats) and small craft (ex. drones).

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Transmitters/Receivers
Lasers (Communication)

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 4
End: 5

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Fibertek, Inc. in partnership with researchers at the Pennsylvania State University Center for Innovative Materials Processing through Direct Digital Deposition (CIMP-3D) are proposing to develop a state of the art, space-qualifiable laser transmitter that meets the requirements of the flash lidar transmitter defined in the 2016 STTR subtopic T9.01, Navigation and Hazard Avoidance Sensor Technologies. The design will be an innovative synthesis of key technologies that results in a >3x reduction in the size and weight and a >2x increase in the efficiency of the laser transmitter previously developed for the Autonomous Landing and Hazard Avoidance Technology (ALHAT) demonstrator program . These key technologies include incorporation of additive manufacturing techniques to develop a much lighter weight mechanical structure, an ultra-compact unstable or near stable ring resonator that achieves a large fundamental mode, higher efficiency diode-pumped head designs that incorporate compact athermal pump architectures, and compact and efficient electronics designs derived from the environmentally hardened versions previously developed for DOD and NASA programs.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
There is a significant commercial interest in the high efficiency, compact laser being proposed. The applications include the following: 1.As an upgrade to the Ball Aerospace Vision Navigation Sensor (VNS). 2.As the transmitter for compact rangefinders that are being developed for commercial satellite servicing systems. 3.Laser marker/designator for defense applications.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
A number of planned NASA missions will be either enabled or greatly enhanced by an autonomous capability to collect real-time 3D image data for landing and rendezvous, satellite servicing and proximity operations. The missions include future robotic missions to the Moon and Mars that require landing at pre-designated sites of high scientific value, autonomous rendezvous and docking with the International Space Station or other satellites, and comet sample and return missions. A flash lidar system can meet the 3D imaging requirements of all these missions.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
3D Imaging
Lenses
Mirrors
Lasers (Ladar/Lidar)
Entry, Descent, & Landing (see also Astronautics)
Ranging/Tracking

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 4

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

We propose that the key to robotic automation in unstructured environments is compliant robotic manipulators that can tolerate, sense, and leverage contact in a feedback loop. We have demonstrated proof of concept of an instrumented end-effector capable of enhanced perception through observed and controlled contact in phase I. We will now expand the project to develop highly capable state and contact sensing capability. This approach requires: (i) a network of sensors capable of capturing the highly compliant state of the soft robot and high resolution tactile sensors for multi-point contact, (ii) integrating these sensors with a core embedded system capable of processing large arrays of sensor data and (iii) development of algorithms that can extract state/tactile information to serve as high frequency feedback to the control system. The goal of this STTR is to transfer the promising technology of elastomeric sensors from the Yale Faboratory's research setting into a commercial product. These sensors present a solution to the remaining piece of the puzzle of how to manage and leverage the additional degrees of freedom of Pneubotics' compliant systems. Towards this goal, Otherlab will serve as the commercial expert with a deployable platform. We will provide electronic system design, control system design, and robotic system integration as well as insight into integration challenges and cost constraints. The Faboratory will serve as the experts on liquid-embedded elastomeric sensors, optimizing the design and fabrication methods to serve the commercial applications. The full system demonstrations proposed in this Phase II are feasible because we will exploit the Pneubotics' manipulators and gripper designs that Otherlab has developed through government grants (NASA, DARPA), commercial partners, and private funding.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The mobile material handling sector is a large near-term market where industrial robotics have already established the precedent for the use of robotic automation but are incapable of addressing mobility needs. The remaining limitation for soft manipulators to enter this market is robust and high throughput grasping of wide variety of objects. The STTR work will address this challenge by using contact to quickly identify box edges and position the end effector relative to the target. Multi-point contact and force control will be utilized to ensure a secure grasp. A key piece to bringing manufacturing jobs back to the United States is incorporating automation into an agile manufacturing line with the goal of shortening product-development cycles and augmenting worker productivity. However, the problem with traditional robots is that they fall short in meeting the needs of agile manufacturing because of cost, weight, and task limitations. Utilizing soft robots in manufacturing operations requires end-effectors capable of establishing safe and controlled contact to create a closed structural loop, significantly reducing the need for high cost sensors and actuators traditionally required to achieve high positional accuracy and stiffness. This interaction which will enable sub mm-scale tool positioning using light-weight, low-cost robots.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Future NASA missions will increasingly rely on advanced robotic systems to enable effective space exploration. In particular, longer and more complex operations require new technologies which have increased autonomy to free-up ground control resources and astronauts' time. Perhaps most importantly these robots must be capable of robustly operating in unstructured, natural environments with ever changing conditions. A critical part of this reliability comes from developing platforms that can tolerate interaction with their surroundings. Pneubotic manipulators derive their structure and actuation from pressurized fluid, which allows for control of stiffness, force generation and deformation of the manipulators. These qualities make these soft robots perfectly suited for space exploration missions were planetary rovers are equipped with soft robotic manipulators capable of identifying and manipulating both heavy debris and delicate samples by actively matching their compliance to the given task. Similarly the light-weight, compliant nature of the Pneubotic technology makes them safe for performing collaborative tasks with astronauts.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Autonomous Control (see also Control & Monitoring)
Perception/Vision
Robotics (see also Control & Monitoring; Sensors)
Teleoperation
Contact/Mechanical

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 4

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Future human space flight missions will take astronauts deeper into space and require increased crew independence from Earth-based flight controllers (crew autonomy). Consequently, they will need to perform more tasks and a greater diversity of tasks. A critical resource for meeting these challenges is greater reliance on robots that can operate with more autonomously [NASA Roadmap TA4]. Greater robot autonomy will require astronauts to manage remote robots operating concurrently with humans. Such management requires the astronaut to plan the activities of one or more robots, direct the execution of the resulting task sequences, and adapt plans when problems or opportunities occur.

TRACLabs and CMU propose to develop software for visualizing and comparing exploration plan alternatives and change effects (xPACE) to help crew adapt robot plans quickly and effectively. The xPACE web application will combine robot plans with data describing the site and the mission, and with resource estimates for plan activities to compute plan figures of merit.  These figures of merit will characterize mission benefits, resource costs, and robot risks for robot plans. xPACE will provide web visualizations of these costs and benefits, with the goal of helping both planners and operators to design plan contingencies and perform trades among plan alternatives. xPACE also will enable users to compare plans as executed to the original plans to better understand difficulties encountered when executing the plan and to inform both re-planning during operations and future planning. The xPACE web application will be integrated with plan editors like the Intelligent Robotics Group (IRG) Exploration Ground Data System (xGDS) planning software. It will be evaluated using data from real or simulated NASA robots.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Unmanned Vehicles (UVs; air, ground, and underwater) are used increasingly in military operations. As the number of vehicles and variety of missions increases, planning for the coordination of multiple remote robots becomes more important. TRACLabs is developing the Autonomy Management Platform to integrate autonomous planning technology with PRIDE electronic procedures for coordinating groups of UVs for the Navy. The proposed xPACE software would complement this effort by providing tools to help soldiers understand the effectiveness and risks of the plans produced by automated planners.

TRACLabs has a multi-year contract with an upstream oil and gas business to develop electronic procedures for drilling automation, with the goal of commercializing a suite of products for these industries. The proposed xPACE software could be integrated with PRIDE procedures to deliver a new product for building and revising procedures used to automate drilling operations. Longer term, this product line could be used with unmanned vehicles operating at offshore rigs, such as robot inspection and maintenance for the oil and natural gas drilling, extraction, and processing.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The proposed xPACE software has relevance to both near-term and long-term NASA human-robot missions. Near-term, the human operator will tele-operate the robot from a remote location, as proposed for the Resource Prospector mission. For such missions, xPACE improves the remote operator's ability to quickly produce safer, more effective plans when replanning during operations. Longer term, the crew will manage robots operating more autonomously. Such management requires the human operator to plan the activities of one or more robots, direct the execution of the resulting task sequences, and adapt plans when problems or opportunities arrive. For such missions, xPACE can help crew compare plans from different perspectives to reveal plan strengths and weaknesses. The software also will support modifying plan parameters to improve plan effectiveness and reduce plan risks.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Man-Machine Interaction
Robotics (see also Control & Monitoring; Sensors)

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 5

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Supporting aerospace mission readiness, a system is needed that allows for composite repairs without the current roadblocks imposed by ovens, autoclaves, and expensive tooling. Cornerstone Research Group (CRG), its subsidiary NONA Composites, and the University of Dayton Research Institute (UDRI) presents NASA with the opportunity to obtain a rapid and robust method for on-site composite structural repairs that is cost effective and flexible to a wide spectrum of repair scenarios.  In Phase I the program succeeded in establishing concept viability. The strength of the NONA repair was considerably better than a comparable existing system. The repair steps allow for a complete repair to occur in a single eight-hour shift. Additionally, NONA Composites independently showed that the repair technology could be delivered in a simple, easy to use kit. The kit contains everything that a user would need and is now being evaluated by a range of beta testers to allow for a launch of this first generation product directly as a result of the Phase I and NONA Composites activity. In Phase II, CRG and NONA Composites will establish allowable use parameters and design specifications. Quality control efforts will focus on improvements in the existing kit, but will also translate to additional repair configurations, including repair of different composite materials. UDRI will perform scarf activities and conduct destructive and non-destructive evaluation. Finally, the team will perform an on-site repair at Kennedy Space Center to show the true flexibility and portability of the technology. The Phase II effort will also help support further technology socialization and continued business analysis on cost, supply chain, and market acceptance. The NONA repair process enables fast, effective composite repairs. The true cost savings of the technology is realized by limiting down time and offering greater system reliability.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 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 helicopters, UAVs, engine fan structures, and fighter and cargo aircraft in need of quick repair operated by the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force and foreign governments. DoD programs that could potentially use the proposed technology include the Air Force LCAAT platform and the Army AH-64 Apache. This technology's attributes for rapid, "in-field" repair should yield a high potential for private sector commercialization for commercial space launch vehicles by SpaceX, United Launch Alliance, or Orbital ATK; and use for a wide variety of aerospace MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) organizations who need a rapid repair for time critical AOG (aircraft on ground) situations. Boeing has expressed interest in this repair technology for their military and commercial aerospace applications as well as multiple MRO organizations. Repair of wind blade and marine composite structures also has high application potential, as well as automotive composite structures on vehicles like the Corvette.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Supporting NASA's Kennedy and Johnson Space Centers, this project's technologies directly address requirements for simplified but effective repair techniques for Space Launch System composite fairings, skirts, and tanks. This project's technologies offer reduced infrastructure footprint, reduced time for preparation, and reduced time for complete repair to enable minimal delays in vehicle launch if a repair is deemed necessary. Potential NASA missions that could utilize the proposed technology include Space Launch System, Orion, and Commercial Crew Program for launch vehicles as well as launch support structures.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Spacecraft Design, Construction, Testing, & Performance (see also Engineering; Testing & Evaluation)
In Situ Manufacturing
Processing Methods
Composites
Joining (Adhesion, Welding)
Polymers
Recovery (see also Autonomous Systems)

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 6

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

Inflatable pressurized habitats are envisioned as a practical way to build shelters much larger than landing craft for astronauts and their scientific operations on Mars, the moon and elsewhere.  These habitats maintain their inflated shape via high-strength Vectran webbing. The piezoresistive extensometers developed through this STTR program can be directly integrated into or onto Vectran webbing and would allow the determination of webbing loads during the inflation process as well as creep during long-term deployment of the habitat. The objective of this NASA STTR program has been to develop such extensometer sensor materials based on NanoSonic's Metal Rubber materials technology that may be incorporated into the support webbing of stitched, pressurized space habitats during their production to monitor loading and creep.  The electrical resistance of these sensor materials changes linearly with strain, its modulus is low enough not to interfere with the deformation of the webbing during habitat stowage, inflation and operation, and its failure strain can be made higher than one hundred percent, so much larger than that of the webbing.  NanoSonic is working with faculty and students in the Electronic Textiles Laboratory at Virginia Tech, with input from inflatable habitat manufacturers at ILC Dover, to develop sewing / stitching / weaving methods for the integration of the sensor materials into layers of webbing during production.  During Phase I, sensor performance was tested in response to both uniaxial loading using a computer-controlled laboratory load frame, and using dead loads on representative webbing material that experiences long-term creep.  During Phase II, NanoSonic and Virginia Tech would work with ILC Dover to integrate and test webbing sensors on softgood habitat models and Bally Ribbon Mills to weave Metal Rubber extensometers directly into NASA habitat webbing materials.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The developed piezoresistive sheet and yarn extensometers may also be used for measurement of the strain, creep, shape and load on non-NASA inflatable structures including 1) commercial EVA space suits such as the recently demonstrated StatEx suit manufactured by our ILC Dover partner, 2) passenger airships that display messages at sporting events, 3) heavy-lift lighter-than-air vehicles used for military transport to remote regions supported by little infrastructure, 4) inflatable devices such as ILC Dover's tunnel plug used for New York City subway flood protection, 5) military aerostats, and 6) inflatable military or hobby UAVs. Additional uses include: motion-sensing fabrics, the development, testing and use of military and commercial round, cruciform, ribbon and ram-air parachutes, the design and testing of fabrics for custom clothing, measurement of extension in large civil structures and installations, such as the large strains due to subsidence in soil and rock formations and the long-term displacements of buildings, dams, roadways and pipelines, and in sensor-instrumented webbings used for climbing, load securing, sporting goods and healthcare products.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The primary NASA application focus for the Metal Rubber extensometers developed through this STTR program is the nondestructive measurement of creep in woven fabric webbings used to control and maintain the shape of space habitats. Monitoring long-term creep allows the statistical estimation of the remaining lifetime of the webbing material, and it is important that this estimate be significantly longer than the required mission lifetime of the inflatable. NanoSonic's Metal Rubber material may be formed into either sheet materials that may be dimensioned into discrete creep extensometers, or into yarn that may be directly woven into webbings during their manufacturing. For NASA, discrete creep extensometers may be applied where needed on existing habitat webbing, or built into the webbings during habitat production. Other similar NASA applications that require the measurement of strains without interfering with the performance of devices include use in 1) landing airbags such as those used on Mars rover landings, 2) atmospheric decelerators such as HIAD and SIAD, 3) high altitude atmospheric research balloons used on earth and elsewhere, 4) high altitude airships, 5) EVA space suit and glove fabrics and bladders, 6) inflatable UAVs, and 7) aerostats. In all of these cases, the measurement resolution at small strains is important. Such sensors could also be used in e-textiles to monitor astronaut motions during operations and exercise.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Polymers
Textiles
Structures
Contact/Mechanical
Lifetime Testing
Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE; NDT)
Diagnostics/Prognostics

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 6

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

In this Phase II STTR project, the proposed collaborative effort between UTC, AFIT, and ULRF represents a crucial step forward for AM.  UTC’s unique AM optimization and process control framework, constructed entirely from experimental sensor data collected in-situ, will finally transfer technology from our SLM test bed system to state-of-the-art and commercial-grade systems, including a Concept Laser M2 Cusing and EOS M270 system.  UTC’s framework, which leverages a “physics-capturing” empirical black box built on correlations between in-situ data, input process parameters, output AM build characteristics, and machine variations will be used to quantify AM process uncertainty across these systems.  This Phase II project will show how seamlessly UTC’s technology can be integrated in to any SLM system to inform real-time output prediction for open loop (closed architecture) systems, and real-time process parameter selection and optimization for closed loop (open architecture) systems.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Potential customers include prime contractors that provide systems or maintenance to NASA and DoD, and additionally include machine manufacturers Concept Laser and EOS. Interest from additional additive manufacturing OEMs is expected, as UTC's sensor technology will be demonstrated on multiple commercial systems. Initial interest in sensors is expected to be for retrofitting existing commercially available SLM machines to provide commercial entities process monitoring on in-house equipment, or working with research-grade users to implement or develop additional customizability for in-process sensing, perhaps with external sensors of their choice. The hardware/software/sensor suite will be calibrated and integrated with commercially available machines by the end of this Phase II. This will allow standards for accepting additively manufactured parts used in space and earth applications to be developed.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
This project will allow UTC to continue supporting various NASA efforts nationally:

- The transfer of UTC's low-cost in-process monitoring capabilities to Concept Laser M2 and EOS M270 industry-standard commercial SLM systems, as well as to NASA MSFC's Concept Laser M-Lab, M2, and M-Line systems.

- UTC continues to support ASTM collaborations and working groups, specifically component and flight certification frameworks for AM parts based on in-situ monitoring and nondestructive evaluation & inspection.

- These work areas directly support NASA's Additive Manufacturing Structural Integrity Initiative (AMSII), an effort to create robust and production-ready flight certification procedures for propulsion applications.

- Phase II will allow UTC to work towards integrated physics-based modeling within our real-time control feedback loop framework.

- UTC is working to develop its own physics-based modeling software to be leveraged during feedback control, which supports NASA powder bed modeling, process modeling, and property prediction modeling MGI/ICME initiatives.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Process Monitoring & Control
Characterization
Models & Simulations (see also Testing & Evaluation)
Prototyping
Quality/Reliability
Software Tools (Analysis, Design)
Microfabrication (and smaller; see also Electronics; Mechanical Systems; Photonics)
Processing Methods
Metallics
Nondestructive Evaluation (NDE; NDT)

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 4
End: 6

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

No existing commercial wireless sensor network option meets NASAs current needs for flexibility, size, mass and resilience to extreme environments. The proposed innovation is a MEIS network which combines any number and any type of sensors into a wireless sensor network (WSN), with each of the sensors being motes, or nodes, on the network. The network will be self-healing and self-configuring. Each mote will consist of three parts: a communication module, a sensor module, and a power module, and be fit for rugged applications, including for spaceflight hardware. There will also be a gateway, which acts as an interface to the outside world. At the minimum, a MEIS network requires one sensor node and one gateway.

As a result of significant technical effort, the Phase I was successful in delivering a prototype proving the modular embedded wireless sensor (MEIS) network concept. This also reduces our risk in proceeding forward with our design. The prototype includes hardware and software, both custom designed by Angstrom Designs. 

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
There are many potential commercial applications. As with NASA, the commercial sector would benefit from data that shows real time performance, gives greater test safety and correlates models to enhance design. Angstrom Designs is very familiar with the deployable solar array market, and solar array structures designers could use sensor arrays for many applications, including 1) measuring strain in structures to verify design models, 2) measuring loads and strain in ground support equipment (GSE) to determine GSE effects on ground testing and 3) measuring sensor position and acceleration to determine deployment dynamics. Similar examples exist in flight and ground test for many of the components of spacecraft, from power systems to structures to pressure vessels to propulsion systems. Additional sensing capability will benefit the largest GEO-communications satellite and the smallest CubeSat. Every spacecraft has critical systems and subsystems that, given additional sensing, could be made more efficient, more reliable and safer. These systems could benefit in design, ground test and, potentially, flight operations. Additionally, sensing of ground test equipment can validate the impact of GSE on test results.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Highly modular, remote sensors are of interest to many NASA tests and missions. Real-time data from sensor networks reduces risk and provides data for future design improvements. For example, sensor networks on a vehicle body can give measurement of temperature, pressure, strain and acoustics. This data is used in real time to determine safety margins and test anomalies. The data is also used post-test to correlate analytical models and optimize vehicle and test design. Because these sensors are small and low mass, they can be used for ground test and for flight. Sensor module miniaturization will further reduce size, mass and cost. Small sensors can be placed in formerly inaccessible locations and can wirelessly provide new insights on system behavior. Wireless remote sensors can be used for thermal, structural and acoustic measurement of systems and subsystems and also provide emergency system halt instructions in the case of leaks, fire or structural failure. Other examples of potential NASA applications include 1) measuring strain in test structures, ground support equipment and vehicles, include high-risk deployables, 2) measuring temperature, strain, voltage and current from power storage and generation systems and 3) measuring pressure, strain and temperature in pumps and pressure vessels. There are many other applications that would benefit from increased, real-time sensing in remote, hard-to-test locations.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Condition Monitoring (see also Sensors)
Circuits (including ICs; for specific applications, see e.g., Communications, Networking & Signal Transport; Control & Monitoring, Sensors)
Conversion
Data Acquisition (see also Sensors)
Acoustic/Vibration
Pressure/Vacuum
Sensor Nodes & Webs (see also Communications, Networking & Signal Transport)
Thermal
Diagnostics/Prognostics

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 4

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)

During our Phase I STTR effort, Balcones Technologies, LLC and The University of Texas Center for Electromechanics successfully achieved all Phase I objectives and developed an advanced concept for Mega-Watt (MW) class, high voltage, variable frequency, aircraft electric propulsor motors.  Our concept exploits doubly fed generator technology that has received considerable development for wind energy applications and adapts it to the aircraft electric propulsor application.  In particular, the wind application is low frequency, low speed, 600V, fixed frequency, MW class, slip-ring or brushless doubly fed generator technology.  Our proposed effort adapts that technology to develop higher voltage (1kV), variable frequency, high speed aircraft electric brushless doubly fed motors (BDFM) for the advanced propulsor application. Important advantages of our propulsor technical solution, our team and our program plan are:

1. Our Dual Fed Motor concept is brushless, which was identified as highly important by aircraft OEM/integrators when briefed on our approach.

2. Our BDFM Propulsor motor results in a 40% reduction in mass of the propulsor unit (motor, converter, and gear system) compared to other approaches (including Permanent Magnet Propulsors) and also increases propulsor unit efficiency by 4%.

3. Our BDFM Propulsor motor approach is feasible and viable because of its roots in Doubly Fed Generators for wind energy applications, but it also represents an advancement in the state of the art for Brushless Doubly Fed Machines and advancement in the state-of-the-art for electric propulsor units. 

4. Our team is highly qualified to succeed in our proposed effort with world class subject matter experts in the key aspects of our BDFM propulsor motor.

5. Our commercialization plan and transition to production plan sets the seeds for long term success by bringing on a future manufacturer as a strategic partner during our Phase II effort.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
Our proposed project develops propulsor technology that enables a high voltage, variable frequency AC hybrid electric drivetrain topology for distributed propulsion aircraft that is being developed by NASA. The NASA goals for this effort are to revolutionize the energy efficiency and environmental compatibility of fixed wing transport aircraft in the 2025 to 2035 timeframe, three generations beyond the current state-of-the-art. The focus aircraft are small single aisle aircraft (100-150 passengers) which accounts for one third of fuel used by commercial aircraft. As a result, the commercial potential for our technology is very large, especially as commercial and military aircraft move toward high efficiency, environmentally friendly propulsor technology/systems and distributed propulsion approaches. Additionally, the Doubly Fed Induction Machines (motors and generators), that are a focus of our proposed Phase I, effort have applications in many aspects of the power industry, including small grids and wind energy applications.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA APPLICATION(S) (LIMIT 150 WORDS)
The aircraft propulsor systems and technology developed under this proposed Phase I and potential Phase II STTR have applications in NASA focus areas of advanced aeronautics, especially those addressing the commercial aircraft industry of the future. Our proposed program also develops MW class motor and generator technology that advances the state of the art in efficiency, torque density, and power density for commercially available machines. This presents commercial opportunities within NASA for applications that benefit from these capabilities. Additionally, NASA's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate lists Ultra-Efficient Commercial Vehicles and Transition to Low-Carbon Propulsion as two of their six strategic thrusts. Within the Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate, the Advanced Air Transport Technology Project (AATTP) seeks to develop technologies and concepts to revolutionize the energy efficiency and environmental compatibility of fixed wing transport aircraft in the 2025 to 2035 timeframe, three generations beyond the current state-of-the-art. The AATTP lists establishing a viable concept for 5-10 MW hybrid gas-electric propulsion system for a commercial transport aircraft as one of its seven technical challenges. Our proposed program directly addresses these thrusts and major technical challenges. Consequently it presents our company with associated commercial opportunities within these NASA programs.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)
Conversion
Actuators & Motors
Machines/Mechanical Subsystems
Atmospheric Propulsion

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (SBC):		RESEARCH INSTITUTION (RI):
NAME:	TDA Research, Inc.	NAME:	University of Puerto Rico - Mayaguez
STREET:	12345 West 52nd Avenue	STREET:	Call Box 9000
CITY:	Wheat Ridge	CITY:	Mayaguez
STATE/ZIP:	CO  80033 - 1916	STATE/ZIP:	PR  00681 - 9000
PHONE:	(303) 940-2347	PHONE:	(787) 832-4040

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Ambalavanan Jayaraman Ph.D.
ajayaraman@tda.com
12345 West 52nd Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 - 1916
(303) 940-5391

CORPORATE/BUSINESS OFFICIAL (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mr. John D. Wright
jdwright@tda.com
12345 West 52nd Avenue
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 - 1916
(303) 940-2300

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 5

Technology Available (TAV) Subtopics
Closed-Loop Living System for Deep-Space ECLSS with Immediate Applications for a Sustainable Planet is a Technology Available (TAV) subtopic that includes NASA Intellectual Property (IP). Do you plan to use the NASA IP under the award?
No

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (Limit 2000 characters, approximately 200 words)

TDA Research Inc.(TDA) in collaboration with University of Puerto Rico – Mayaguez (UPRM is proposing to develop a highly efficient CO2 removal system based on UPRM proprietary strontium exchanged silico-alumino-phosphate (Sr-SAPO-34) sorbent for closed loop space craft cabin air re-vitalization during deep space missions.

In the Phase I work, we successfully completed bench-scale proof-of-concept demonstrations, elevating the TRL to 3. In Phase II, we will further optimize the sorbent and scale-up its production using advanced manufacturing techniques such as continuous microwave synthesis.  We will carry out multiple adsorption/desorption cycles to demonstrate the sorbent's cycle life (>500).  We will develop a CFD model to optimize the cyclic operation of the sorbent system and carry out a detailed engineering assessment of the full-scale system.  Finally, we will design and fabricate a sub-scale prototype to fully demonstrate the technology under simulated spacecraft cabin atmospheres (TRL-5); this unit will be sent to NASA for further testing and evaluation.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words)
The main attraction of our research to NASA is its ability to provide a lightweight, compact and energy efficient CO2 removal system for closed-loop space craft cabin air re-vitalization during deep space missions.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words)
This system will also find use on earth for removing CO2 from confined spaces such as large buildings, aircrafts, and submarines to reduce the energy use of next generation life support and air conditioning systems. The sorbent developed is also applicable to a wide variety of industrial processes, which require CO2 removal (i.e., CO2 capture from flue gas, biogas, natural gas, etc.) and sorbent enhanced water-gas-shift reaction in hydrogen manufacturing.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)

Essential Life Resources (Oxygen, Water, Nutrients) Prototyping Sources (Renewable, Nonrenewable)

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (SBC):		RESEARCH INSTITUTION (RI):
NAME:	Emergent Space Technologies, Inc.	NAME:	University of Pittsburgh
STREET:	7901 Sandy Spring Road, Ste. 511	STREET:	1238 Benedum Hall, 3700 O'Hara Street
CITY:	Laurel	CITY:	Pittsburgh
STATE/ZIP:	MD  20707 - 3589	STATE/ZIP:	PA  15261 - 0001
PHONE:	(301) 345-1535	PHONE:	(412) 624-7400

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mr. Brendan O'Connor
brendan.oconnor@emergentspace.com
7703 N. Lamar Blvd, Suite 210
Austin, TX 78752 - 1004
(301) 345-1535 Extension :401

CORPORATE/BUSINESS OFFICIAL (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mr. Everett Cary Jr.
everett.cary@emergentspace.com
7901 Sandy Spring Road, Suite 511
Laurel, MD 20707 - 3589
(301) 345-1535 Extension :150

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 4
End: 5

Technology Available (TAV) Subtopics
Distributed Spacecraft Missions (DSM) Technology Framework is a Technology Available (TAV) subtopic that includes NASA Intellectual Property (IP). Do you plan to use the NASA IP under the award?
No

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (Limit 2000 characters, approximately 200 words)

Increasing the level of spacecraft autonomy for any future space mission will make it more affordable and capable, allowing NASA to do more science with less operations costs. For future Distributed Space Missions (DSMs) however, spacecraft autonomy is critical to reducing costs to make the missions affordable and practical. The use of multiple satellites to simultaneously sample science observations in multiple spatial, spectral, angular, and temporal dimensions is feasible only if the mission operations costs do not scale up with the number of vehicles in the constellation. Accordingly, flight software technology that enables safe, cost-efficient on-board operation of satellite constellations is required. In Phase I of this project, Emergent Space Technologies, Inc. (Emergent) focused on the development of a highly capable executive for automating on-board satellite operations and coordinating operations between DSM satellites. Called Distributed Automation Suite for Heuristic Execution and Response (DASHER), the executive is compatible with NASA’s core Flight Software (cFS) suite to leverage existing flight software technology that has been proven on missions such as LRO, MMS and GPM and extend it to DSMs. In Phase I, we successfully demonstrated an autonomous Executive. In Phase II, we extend the executive function to provide a full cFS-based DSM autonomy framework that includes multiple planning agents, scheduling at the DSM level and at the satellite level, and fault detection, isolation, and recovery (FDIR). DSMs using this framework will be able to autonomously plan, schedule, and execute activities using shared resources. We demonstrate the technology in a realistic hardware-in-the-loop simulation for conceptual DSM missions targeted at Earth remote sensing.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words)
Robust autonomy could benefit most NASA missions, but it is key enabler for Distributed Spacecraft Missions (DSMs). The Decadal Survey outlines several missions that make use of DSMs to enhance their science return. DASHER enables DSMs many ways, including decreased operational costs, more efficient science returns, increased robustness, enhanced flexibility and responsiveness, handling of mission complexity, and enabling new mission concepts. DASHER decreases operational costs by automating routine and tedious tasks and allowing the mission ground crews to focus on more critical and science enabling activities. The DSMs identified by the Decadal Study are the potential future customers of the DASHER. DASHER improves the robustness of DSMs because it can continue providing services even under off-nominal conditions. This feature enables goal-oriented operations where the operators communicate high-level goals and the on-board system adapts to accomplish the goal based on its actual state. Advanced mission concepts also become feasible with DASHER including highly responsive Earth Observation constellations or swarms of small satellites. These types of missions would be cost prohibitive without a high-level autonomy like DASHER. As a future part of the NASA cFS library of applications, the software developed under this project will give mission designers greater flexibility in designing solutions for scientific puzzles.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words)
In recent years, several commercial multi-satellite systems have been proposed including the OneWeb and Planet Labs constellations. OneWeb plans on providing global internet access while Planet Labs provides Earth imagery. These and other proposed constellations will all make use of autonomy to reduce operations costs. A general autonomy system like DASHER could make headway into markets like these, especially if it had a successful flight heritage. Commercial companies generally have standardized operations procedures that lend themselves well to automation. The fact that DASHER is built on the open source cFS platform that provides a multi-satellite infrastructure is also a beneficial feature for commercial customers. Emergent would market the DASHER Suite in these markets as licensable software.
The Department of Defense has for some time recognized the vulnerability of their large, monolithic satellites. The fact that these satellites are critical to the national defense makes them tempting targets to adversaries and efforts to reduce their exposure have included discussions of disaggregation, or splitting the payloads up into clusters of smaller satellites, and the related concept of distribution, which is the spreading of services over multiple identical satellites. The DASHER Suite could be used to reduce the operations cost of disaggregated or distributed satellite systems.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)

Algorithms/Control Software & Systems (see also Autonomous Systems) Autonomous Control (see also Control & Monitoring) Command & Control Process Monitoring & Control Sequencing & Scheduling

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (SBC):		RESEARCH INSTITUTION (RI):
NAME:	Gloyer-Taylor Laboratories, LLC	NAME:	Southern Research Institute
STREET:	112 Mitchell Boulevard	STREET:	2000 Ninth Avenue
CITY:	Tullahoma	CITY:	South Birmingham
STATE/ZIP:	TN  37388 - 4002	STATE/ZIP:	AL  85205 - 2708
PHONE:	(931) 455-7333	PHONE:	(205) 581-2873

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mr. Zachary Taylor
zachary.taylor@gtlcompany.com
41548 Eastman Drive Unit A
Murrieta, CA 92562 - 8009
(951) 600-9999

CORPORATE/BUSINESS OFFICIAL (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Mr. Paul Gloyer
paul.gloyer@gtlcompany.com
112 Mitchell Boulevard
Tullahoma, TN 37388 - 4002
(931) 455-7333

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 3
End: 5

Technology Available (TAV) Subtopics
Advanced Structural Health Monitoring is a Technology Available (TAV) subtopic that includes NASA Intellectual Property (IP). Do you plan to use the NASA IP under the award?
No

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (Limit 2000 characters, approximately 200 words)

GTL proposes to further the development of its SNS technology towards adoption into aerospace structures. The SNS technology is an enabler technology for the expanded use of structural health monitoring systems. It allows the large data architectures needed for these types of systems to be implemented with minimal mass and impact to structural performance. GTL will accomplish this by automating the manufacturing process of its SNS conductor elements to enable the production of conductors on a large length scale. GTL will then use this automated fabrication process to produce SNS first products. These first products will validated in a series of tests. Small scale tests will validate the consistent properties of these first products. Large scale tests will validate the properties of the SNS first products at a scale relevant to large aerospace structures. Vacuum thermal cycling tests will validate SNS first product use in a representative space environment. To conclude the effort, testing with large scale engineering model structures will validate the integration of SNS first products into representative pressure vessel and wing structures. This testing with engineering models will also demonstrate the operation of SNS technology under loads representative of typical aerospace structure operation. GTL will then provide an SNS technology first products kit to NASA.

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words)
SNS technology offers the potential for an innovative and efficient method for the transmission of power and data for existing or new structural health monitoring systems. It offers a cost effective and mass reducing alternative to the use of cumbersome wiring systems for the transfer of power and data in conventional systems. This capability is directly applicable to future NASA air and space vehicles. These vehicles will seek to operate in increasingly more hazardous environments and thus need structural health monitoring systems to manage risk. To contrast this, these vehicles will need to have low mass and excellent structural performance. SNS technology allows these vehicles to meet both of these objectives.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words)
SNS technology is a component level technology that is essentially a replacement for wiring. As a result it has potential applications in any composite structure that is mass restricted and has extensive wiring. Main applications include large aerospace structures such as aircraft and commercial satellites. As commercial aircraft move towards increased use of composite materials and electrical control systems, the benefits of using SNS technology will increase. Additionally, SNS technology will reduce the mass and risk in commercial satellite structures, which have extensive internal wiring.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)

Composites Destructive Testing Launch Engine/Booster Lifetime Testing Pressure & Vacuum Systems Spacecraft Main Engine Structures

SMALL BUSINESS CONCERN (SBC):		RESEARCH INSTITUTION (RI):
NAME:	Morningbird Media Corporation	NAME:	AAMU-RISE Foundation
STREET:	7027 Old Madison Pike, Suite 108	STREET:	4900 Meridian Street
CITY:	Huntsville	CITY:	Normal
STATE/ZIP:	AL  35806 - 2369	STATE/ZIP:	AL  35762 - 7500
PHONE:	(256) 799-0202	PHONE:	(256) 372-5560

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR/PROJECT MANAGER (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Chance M Glenn Sr.
chancemglenn@morningbirdmedia.com
7027 Old Madison Pike, Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806 - 2369
(585) 899-0457

CORPORATE/BUSINESS OFFICIAL (Name, E-mail, Mail Address, City/State/Zip, Phone)
Dr. Chance M Glenn Sr.
chancemglenn@morningbirdmedia.com
7027 Old Madison Pike, Suite 108
Huntsville, AL 35806 - 2369
(256) 799-0202

Estimated Technology Readiness Level (TRL) at beginning and end of contract:
Begin: 4
End: 7

Technology Available (TAV) Subtopics
Experimental and Analytical Technologies for Additive Manufacturing is a Technology Available (TAV) subtopic that includes NASA Intellectual Property (IP). Do you plan to use the NASA IP under the award?
No

TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (Limit 2000 characters, approximately 200 words)

Under the support of a FY 2016 NASA Phase I Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) contract (NASA contract number NNX16CM40P), Morningbird Media Corporation in collaboration with Alabama A&M University Research, Innovation in Science and Engineering (AAMU-RISE) Foundation, has devised a unique method for an additive manufacturing technique for the direct 3D printing of functional electronics. This method involves the preparation of proprietary fast curable inks as well as filaments for the critical materials necessary; the cartridge deposition technologies, and the software layout and control to produce a multitude of electronic devices. The primary goal of the Phase I effort was to determine the viability of the additive manufacturing technique from a materials standpoint. Morningbird Media Corporation has developed new techniques to create the ink-based and/or filament based materials for conductive, resistive, capacitive, semiconducting and insulating materials. Several methodologies were explored: (a) direct laser melting of nanopowders onto the surface, (b) an ink-based approach using nanopowder mixtures with fast UV curable epoxy, (c) nanopowder/ABS material mixtures in an acetone solution, and (d) filaments created from a nanopowder and a thermoplastic adhesive. The company has also designed a unique print cartridge and a layout and control software package. We determined the most viable material development process and applied it to a prototype printer to produce and test the first electronic elements.  This printing technique completely eliminates the needs of post-processing. This work has the capability of revolutionizing the way electronics are designed, produced, and implemented in all of technology. A commercial product development strategy is formulated around the Electronic Alchemy (TM) system as a consumer product in order to print unique 3D structures with electrical/electronic functionality. 

POTENTIAL NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words)
Morningbird's Electronic Alchemy technology has the potential to impact several areas within NASA taxonomy. Some of these are:

- In-situ production and replacement of electronics devices.
- 3D printing of biomedical and environmental sensors/detectors
- 3D printing of antennas.
- Establishment of a ground-based environmental monitoring network using custom sensors (such as CO2). This will enhance outreach to K-12 and university students/faculty.
- Enhancement of research and development processes by providing a system for real-time, custom creation of test devices and test beds.

The Electronic Alchemy printer and material cartridges will be available to be provided to all NASA centers.

POTENTIAL NON-NASA COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words)
The Morningbird Media Corporation is leveraging its technology development strategy, strategic partnerships, and early-stage venture funding to embark upon a product an commercialization path built upon the projected $30B 3D printing market and the $1T consumer electronic market.

Product Lines:

The Electronic Alchemy? 3De Printer ver. 1.x is a multi-material printer capable producing intricately detailed devices that have electronic functionality.

The Electronic Alchemy? 3De Cartridges provide the various critical materials needed to print functional electronics.

The Electronic Alchemy? Design Cauldron ver 1.x is the layout, analysis, and printer control software for PCs, tablets, and other computing platforms.

The Environmental and Biomedical Sensor Elements Package is a set of customized sensors and detectors designed to be modified and printed with the Electronic Alchemy? system.

The Electronic Alchemy? Development Community is a development environment that will allow members to interact and exchange designs. It will be modeled much after an app store (iTunes or Google Play) where member designs can be sold, traded, or given away.

TECHNOLOGY TAXONOMY MAPPING (NASA's technology taxonomy has been developed by the SBIR-STTR program to disseminate awareness of proposed and awarded R/R&D in the agency. It is a listing of over 100 technologies, sorted into broad categories, of interest to NASA.)

Acoustic/Vibration Antennas Chemical/Environmental (see also Biological Health/Life Support) Circuits (including ICs; for specific applications, see e.g., Communications, Networking & Signal Transport; Control & Monitoring, Sensors) Detectors (see also Sensors) Health Monitoring & Sensing (see also Sensors) In Situ Manufacturing Materials (Insulator, Semiconductor, Substrate) Outreach Prototyping