Acoustic Watermarking for Air ASW Systems
ID: N241-018Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Acoustic Watermarking for Air ASW Systems

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2479711

Additional Information

https://www.defensesbirsttr.mil/SBIR-STTR/Opportunities/
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Acoustic Watermarking for Air ASW Systems" as part of the SBIR 24.1 BAA. The objective of this solicitation is to develop an active sonar watermarking capability for Air Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) sonobuoy systems. The technology aims to improve wide area search timelines, sonar track localization, and enable communication with other platforms such as Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs). The technology will embed a digital message into an active sonar transmission, allowing the receiver to recover information from the transmitter and conduct echo detection and ranging. The technology will reduce sonar search times by at least 25% against fast targets and improve the target Area of Uncertainty (AOU) by at least 15%. The watermarking technology should degrade detection probabilities by less than 1 dB and range accuracy by less than 10% in realistic ocean channels. The same technology can also be used to embed short acoustic communication messages in active sonar transmissions for authentication and transmission assurance. The project will be conducted in three phases: Phase I involves developing a digital watermarking technology, Phase II focuses on developing a prototype and testing the technology, and Phase III involves making recommendations for integration into production systems. The technology will primarily benefit military applications, but it also has potential commercial applications in audio file authentication and protection. The solicitation is open until February 21, 2024. For more information, visit the SBIR topic link or the solicitation agency website.

    Files
    No associated files provided.
    Similar Opportunities
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) Dual Band Focal Plane Array in High Definition Format
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a small energy-efficient self-contained transceiver capable of wireless communication without using traditional radio frequency (RF) transport. The goal is to utilize a non-standard means of signal communication, such as magnetic, acoustic, or infrared, that is difficult to detect and report in covert activities. The transceiver should be highly resistant to interference, detection, and exploitation, and be self-contained, man-portable, easily concealable, and field programmable. The project duration is divided into two phases: Phase I involves creating a plausible design and rationale supporting the solution, while Phase II focuses on developing and testing a prototype that demonstrates the desired capabilities. The project aligns with the Army's smart sensing initiatives and aims to provide an innovative alternate means of low probability of detection (LPD) and low probability of interception (LPI) communications. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - xTechSpecial Forces
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The specific topic of the solicitation is "xTechSpecial Forces" and it is being conducted by the Army branch. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. The first topic of the solicitation is "GPS Denied ATAK Compatible Self Location Application." The US Army 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) is looking for a software solution that can obtain self-location data in GPS-denied situations and integrate it into the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK) software platform. The software should enable self-location without the use of GPS, other networks, or additional hardware. The goal is to allow ground operators to take a picture of the sky to obtain images including celestial objects and/or passing satellites, resulting in operationally suitable self-location. The second topic is "SWARM Tracker – Counter UxS Warning System." The Army Special Operations Command is seeking an automated tool that can provide early warning of swarmed sensors and effects similar to the National Weather System's severe weather warning systems. The tool should integrate with existing and emerging systems, provide multi-modal awareness, and deliver timely notifications to tactical units and base defense operating centers. The focus is on reducing cognitive load and building user-centric notification systems. The third topic is "PSYOP Product Air Delivery Vehicle." The Army Special Operations Command requires a self-guided aerial delivery system for disseminating Psychological Operations products. The Air Delivery Vehicle (ADV) should be interchangeable depending on payload and mission requirements, resistant to electronic attack, and capable of accommodating payloads ranging from 8 ounces to 50 pounds. The ADV should have self-navigation capabilities, accurate release points, and the ability to operate in day and night conditions. The fourth topic is "Non-Attributable Mobile Mesh Network Radio." The 1st Special Forces Command is interested in a small form factor, non-attributable mesh network radio system for position location information (PLI), voice, sensor integration, and data transmission. The system should enable continuous communication outside of cellular/internet coverage, have a low physical and RF signature, and integrate with the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK). The fifth topic is "Distributed Electromagnetic Sensing, Automated Characterization, and Simple Reporting systems." The 1st Special Forces Command is interested in technological solutions to enhance Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities. The focus is on scalable, cost-effective, software-based innovations that address core need areas such as AI/ML-enabled edge processing, automated signal detection and characterization, near-real-time data availability, and integration with tactical situational awareness systems. The Phase I proposals for this solicitation can receive funding up to $250,000 for a 6-month period, while Direct to Phase II proposals can receive funding up to $2,000,000 for an 18-month period. Phase I involves completing a feasibility study and developing concept plans, while Phase II focuses on producing prototype solutions. Phase III involves maturing the technology to TRL 6/7, producing prototypes for further evaluation, and updating prototypes based on soldier feedback. For more information and to submit a proposal, visit the solicitation agency's website: [link](https://www
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Atmospheric Water Extraction Plus (AWE+)
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Atmospheric Water Extraction Plus (AWE+)" as part of its SBIR program. The objective of this solicitation is to develop novel atmospheric water extraction technology with potential for energy use below 100Wh electric per liter of water generated across a wide range of environments. The technology should be integrated into a proof-of-concept prototype producing potable water with a clear path to full-size implementation. The DOD has a critical need to reduce water resupply requirements for mobile and self-sufficient operations. The development of AWE+ technology will have important tactical implications, reducing casualties and costs in forward operating environments. The goal is to provide potable water for a range of military needs by developing low-power, distributable systems that can provide water anywhere, anytime, and without the need for any external liquid water source. DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, is specifically seeking teams with innovative means of releasing water from sorbents which is cyclically stable and has very low energy requirements. The technology should be able to produce water with not more than 100Wh electricity per liter of water produced, and not more than 100Wh thermal energy per liter of water produced. Proposals should outline a plan for reaching these energy metrics and provide an estimate for the range of environmental conditions at which the devices could operate. The project will be conducted in two phases. Phase I is a six-month effort focusing on proof-of-concept material and release mechanism development. Phase II is a 24-month effort with a base period of nine months, followed by two option periods. The performers will be expected to demonstrate functionality of their water capture and release mechanisms in a laboratory environment, producing at least 100mL of potable liquid water over a six-hour period with minimal loss in performance. The ultimate goal of this effort is to demonstrate AWE capable of meeting potable water needs for expeditionary scenarios with extremely high efficiency. Phase III will focus on transition within the DoD/military and further commercialization of the technology. Potential applications include satisfying military expeditionary water needs, reducing logistical footprint and vulnerability of supply lines, and developing next-generation dehumidification systems for residential and commercial HVAC. Keywords: Atmospheric water extraction, atmospheric water capture, atmospheric water harvesting, sorbent materials, advanced manufacturing. For more information and to submit proposals, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation notice on grants.gov or the DOD SBIR/STTR Opportunities website. The open date for proposals is October 3, 2023, and the close date is March 31, 2025.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Ensuring Sensor Data Security and Integrity
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Ensuring Sensor Data Security and Integrity" as part of its SBIR program. The objective of this topic is to develop a platform that secures sensor data at the individual record level and supports experimentation to advance technology for DoD and Army Data Strategy VAULTIS goals. The platform should be cost-effective, flexible, and implemented through an Application Programming Interface (API) with no data size limitation. It should also ensure the integrity of sensor data throughout its lifecycle and incorporate attributes such as encryption, immutable data storage, audit and logging, and tamper-proof chain of custody. The Army aims to become more data-centric and capable of conducting operations in contested environments. The project will be conducted in two phases, with Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals accepted for a cost of up to $2,000,000 for an 18-month period of performance. The contractor will be responsible for integrating, testing, demonstrating, and delivering a lightweight and scalable prototype data provenance solution. The solution should secure all sensor data at the individual record level and include database, replication, data audit, and encryption in a single integrated solution. It should also incorporate knowledge graphs, analytic visualization tools, and support data analysis. The use of blockchain technology is highlighted as a potential dual-use application for protecting sensor data fidelity in various sectors such as healthcare, critical infrastructure, smart homes, and autonomous vehicles. The project references the Army's data plan and strategic goals for 2040. The deadline for proposal submission is March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link provided: DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Water Tester at Point of Need
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for a water tester at the point of need. The objective of this solicitation is to develop applied research for an innovative capability to improve water surveillance in field conditions. The goal is to create a rugged and compact field instrument that can provide microbiological and metal detection capabilities to reduce health risks to personnel. The water tester should be able to analyze for total coliforms, Escherichia coli, arsenic, lead, copper, and cyanide, providing rapid results within 4 hours. The equipment must be compact, durable, and able to fit in carry-on luggage, weighing no more than 25 pounds. The project will be conducted in two phases: Phase I involves a feasibility study, and Phase II focuses on developing and demonstrating a prototype system. The potential applications of this technology include military use, environmental programs, emergency response teams, and other federal directorates. The deadline for proposal submission is March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link: here.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Lightweight Longwave Bolometer Sensor Components
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Lightweight Longwave Bolometer Sensor Components" as part of the SBIR program. The objective of this topic is to develop components that enable low size, weight, and power (SWAP) thermal bolometer-type longwave thermal sensor payloads. These components should have equal or better performance than current commercial offerings while driving down SWAP. The components of interest include lens, focal plane, and readout and processing embedded hardware. The components should be ready for integration into a camera module by the end of Phase II. Thermal longwave infrared (LWIR) capabilities are crucial for many Army applications, especially for small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). However, the size, power, and weight constraints often limit the performance of these sensors. This topic aims to develop components that reduce the weight of thermal payloads while increasing their capabilities and keeping unit costs low. The project will have a Phase I and Phase II, with Phase I proposals accepting a cost of up to $250,000 for a 6-month period of performance. During Phase I, firms should design a proposed component with stakeholder input, analyze the SWAP-C impact of the component, and discuss how it will support the objective sensor payload. Phase II will involve completing the component design, fabricating, testing, and characterizing the component for integration into a lightweight sensor payload. Firms will also refine the design, define relevant interfaces, and lay out a high-level plan for integration. The potential applications of this research include smartphone camera augmentation, UAV camera augmentation, home security systems, and climate tech development. The project references academic research on bolometer manufacturing methods and the efficacy of leveraging colloidal quantum dots (QDs) for IR light sensing. Military contractors have also contributed to the research in the LWIR sensor and bolometer manufacturing spaces. For more information and to submit proposals, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation notice on grants.gov or the DOD SBIR/STTR Opportunities page. The open date for proposals is October 3, 2023, and the close date is March 31, 2025.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Water Tester at Point of Need
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a water tester at the point of need. The objective of this research topic is to improve water surveillance by developing a rugged and compact field instrument capable of providing microbiological and metal detection capabilities. The goal is to reduce both short- and long-term health risks to personnel. The water tester should be able to analyze for total coliforms, Escherichia coli, arsenic, lead, copper, and cyanide, providing rapid results in less than 4 hours. The equipment must be compact, durable, and able to fit in a carry-on piece of luggage, weighing no more than 25 pounds. The project will be conducted in two phases: Phase I involves a feasibility study, while Phase II focuses on developing and demonstrating a prototype system. The potential applications of this technology include military use for Special Operations Forces and conventional forces, as well as environmental programs, emergency response teams, and other federal directorates. The project duration is not specified, but the solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation on grants.gov.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Miniaturization of Hyperspectral Sensors for UAS Applications
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Miniaturization of Hyperspectral Sensors for UAS Applications" as part of their SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The objective of this topic is to develop a compact, passive, day/night capable hyperspectral sensor that meets Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP) requirements for integration into ongoing modernization programs. The sensor should result in cost savings and reductions in weight, power, and volume without sacrificing capability. The sensor payload will be developed for use on smaller Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs). Historically, airborne hyperspectral imaging (HSI) systems have been limited to larger aircraft due to heavy and complex optical components, high power consumption, and large ancillary hardware. This limits accessibility and availability. The solicitation is accepting Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals with a cost of up to $2,000,000 for a 24-month period of performance. Proposers interested in submitting a DP2 proposal must provide documentation to substantiate the scientific and technical merit and feasibility equivalent to a Phase I project. During Phase II, firms should complete the sensor design, fabricate and test the component, integrate it into a gimbal for final integration onto a Class II or smaller UAS platform, refine the design as necessary, and validate sensor payload performance in a government-run laboratory. They should also define relevant interfaces for integration and lay out a high-level plan for how the component could be integrated into a UAS platform. In Phase III, the sensor/gimbal payload should be integrated into a prototype system for field collection. The sensor should be deployed on at least one test event to observe performance and generate quantitative/qualitative sensor performance data. The topic references relevant research papers on hyperspectral imaging systems. The keywords for this topic are Hyperspectral, VNIR, SWIR, and LWIR. For more information and to submit proposals, visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation page on grants.gov: link.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - xTech Search 8 SBIR Finalist Open Topic Competition
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the xTech Search 8 SBIR Finalist Open Topic Competition. The objective of this solicitation is to find novel and disruptive concepts and technology solutions with dual-use capabilities that can address the Army's current needs and apply to current Army concepts. The technology areas of interest include Electronics, Human Systems, and Sensors. The Army is particularly interested in technologies related to Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Advanced Materials, Advanced Manufacturing, Autonomy, Cyber, Human Performance, Immersive, Network Technologies, Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT), Power, Software Modernization, and Sensors. The Phase I of the project requires a feasibility study and concept plans, while Phase II involves producing prototype solutions that can be easily operated by soldiers. Phase III focuses on the maturation of the technology and its transition to TRL 6/7, as well as further development and commercialization. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation agency website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - xTech Search 8 SBIR Finalist Open Topic Competition
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the xTech Search 8 SBIR Finalist Open Topic Competition. The objective of this solicitation is to find novel and disruptive concepts and technology solutions with dual-use capabilities that can address the Army's current needs and apply to current Army concepts. The technology areas of interest include Electronics, Human Systems, and Sensors. The Army is particularly interested in technologies related to Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning, Advanced Materials, Advanced Manufacturing, Autonomy, Cyber, Human Performance, Immersive, Network Technologies, Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT), Power, Software Modernization, and Sensors. The Phase I of the project requires a feasibility study and concept plans, while Phase II involves producing prototype solutions for evaluation by soldiers. Phase III focuses on the maturation of the technology and commercialization. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation agency website.