Video Analysis of Drug and Human Smuggling Activities
ID: DHS241-005Type: Phase I
Overview

Topic

Video Analysis of Drug and Human Smuggling Activities

Agency

Department of Homeland SecurityScience and Technology Directorate

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: Phase IYear: 2024

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2477007

Additional Information

https://oip.dhs.gov/sbir/public
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program Phase I. The specific topic of the solicitation is "Video Analysis of Drug and Human Smuggling Activities". The goal is to develop automated video analysis capabilities that can identify activities of interest and anomalous activities related to drug and human smuggling. The technology should alert operators in real-time and provide human-machine teaming capabilities for further investigation. The algorithms developed should be able to work with standard off-the-shelf cameras, including mid-wave infrared and visible imaging sensors, with a range of up to 15 nm. The project duration is not specified, but the application due date is January 18, 2024. For more information, visit the SBIR topic link: link.

    Files
    No associated files provided.
    Similar Opportunities
    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 - Autonomous Optical Sensors
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Autonomous Optical Sensors" as part of their SBIR program. The objective of this project is to develop a portable optical sensor that can capture high-quality real-time imagery data during missile tests. The sensor will be positioned near a missile launcher or target to analyze the terminal phase of the flight. The sensor will incorporate high-speed imaging cameras with advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, allowing it to calibrate and manage itself and operate autonomously for an extended period. The sensor will wirelessly receive setup and calibration data from a centralized command center. In Phase I, the awardee will research and define an integrated configuration of the Autonomous Optical Sensor (AOS) that includes various types of optical sensors and an AI framework. Phase II will involve creating a prototype of the AOS based on the Phase I analysis, refining the integrated system design, and conducting functional testing in an operational context. The potential applications of this technology include collecting real-time imagery for air traffic management at airports or surveillance of sensitive areas. It can help track flights, assist in airspace coordination, and alert operators of potential safety or security concerns. The project is currently open for proposals, with a closing date of March 31, 2025. More information can be found on the DOD SBIR website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - User and Entity Behavior Analysis
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "User and Entity Behavior Analysis" as part of their SBIR program. The objective of this research is to develop a UEBA capability that serves as a Policy Decision Point (PDP) in the Tactical Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA). The UEBA will analyze user and entity behavior by collecting activity data and applying advanced analytics to detect anomalies. The solution will leverage data already collected and normalized by the Elastic Stack and incorporate various sources such as Active Directory, endpoint systems, firewalls, and vulnerability scans. The UEBA should include a flexible REST API for obtaining telemetry and making authorization decisions. The project will be conducted in three phases. Phase I requires a proof of concept in the form of a whitepaper, demonstrating the feasibility of developing the UEBA capability. Phase II involves developing a prototype to collect and interpret data, display risk score changes, and allow human decision-making based on alerts. Phase III focuses on dual-use applications, such as embedding AI/ML pattern recognition into cybersecurity operations and applying UEBA to IoT, healthcare, and finance sectors. The project duration is not specified, but the solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information and to submit proposals, interested parties can visit the DOD SBIR website at [solicitationagencyurl].
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Advanced Miniature Mission Processor for Hyperspectral Applications
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Advanced Miniature Mission Processor for Hyperspectral Applications" as part of their SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The research focuses on developing a low-size, weight, and power (SWaP) high-performance computer for an Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)-integrated hyperspectral imaging (HSI) camera. The objective is to meet the necessary SWaP requirements for integration into ongoing modernization programs. The mission processor will aggregate multiple core payload operation functions and should be compliant with current Sensor Open System Architecture (SOSA) Small Form Factor (SFF) standards. The project duration is 24 months, and the funding for Phase II proposals is up to $2,000,000. The ultimate goal is to integrate the mission processor with a sensor/gimbal into a prototype system for field collection and observe its performance. Relevant references include research papers on hyperspectral imaging and signal processing approaches. Keywords for this topic include hyperspectral, real-time processor, near-real-time processor, and mission processor. For more information and to submit a proposal, visit the DOD SBIR website.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Small Unmanned Ground Robotic Systems
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a cyber-hardened small unmanned ground robotic system. The system should be capable of being operated using both a vendor-developed .apk TAK GOV software controller and a Tomahawk Robotics Grip S20 universal controller. It should integrate the best C2/data link components and be operable with Silvus Technologies and Persistent Systems radios. The system should be designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) purposes and be able to operate in all-weather conditions within rural and urban environments. The system should have a minimum battery life of 60-90 minutes and a ground control station line-of-sight range capability of 100 meters. The integrated sensors should be able to identify moving armed personnel at specified distances. The system should also have cyber survivability attributes and be capable of carrying various payloads. The Phase I of the project involves conducting a feasibility study to assess the options that satisfy the requirements. The Phase II includes developing, installing, and demonstrating a prototype system. The system has potential applications in a broad range of military operations, enhancing operational situational awareness, reducing cognitive and physical workload, and reducing risk to the user. The project is open for proposals until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link.
    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 - Small Unmanned Ground Robotic Systems
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the development of a cyber-hardened small unmanned ground robotic system. The system should be capable of being operated using both a vendor-developed .apk TAK GOV software controller and a Tomahawk Robotics Grip S20 universal controller. It should integrate the best C2/data link components and be operable with Silvus Technologies and Persistent Systems radios. The system should be designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) purposes and be able to operate in all-weather conditions within rural and urban environments. The system should have a minimum operating time of 60 minutes for smaller systems and 90 minutes for larger systems, with a ground control station line-of-sight range capability of 100 meters. The integrated sensors should be able to identify moving armed personnel at specified distances. The system should also have cyber survivability attributes and be capable of carrying various payloads. The feasibility study for Phase I should investigate all options that meet or exceed the minimum performance parameters. Phase II involves developing and demonstrating a prototype system, and Phase III focuses on dual-use applications in military settings. The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Open Topic for Persistent Experimentation
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for an open topic on persistent experimentation. The U.S. Army, under the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD (R&E)), is specifically interested in novel, disruptive concepts and technology solutions with dual-use capabilities. The goal is to address the Army's current needs and future concepts by experimenting, refining, and advancing technology solutions in operationally relevant environments. The Army encourages participation in its persistent experimentation events to mature and test the technology. Proposals should align with specific experimentation events and demonstrate potential for commercial applications. The phase I of the project will only accept Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals, which should provide documentation of scientific and technical merit, feasibility, and potential commercial applications. DP2 awardees are expected to produce a prototype solution ready for field demonstration and deliver a technology transition and commercialization plan. Phase III focuses on the maturation of the technology to TRL 6/7 and further development and commercialization. The keywords for this solicitation include Human-Machine Integration (HMI), autonomy, artificial intelligence (AI), logistics, ground systems, air systems, robotics, sensors, and electromagnetic warfare (EW). The solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation link.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Biometrics for Multi Factor Authentication
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic "Biometrics for Multi Factor Authentication" as part of their SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The specific branch for this topic is the Army, and the topic number is A244-008. The objective of this solicitation is to develop dual-band Mid-wave Infrared/Long-Wave Infrared (MWIR/LWIR) Infrared Focal Plane Array (IR FPA) technology that can meet Third Generation Forward Looking Infrared (3GEN FLIR) performance objectives. This technology will benefit all forms of Army and DOD night vision sensors, including individual soldier, ground vehicle, unmanned vehicles, and aircraft. The combination of MWIR & LWIR imaging increases the ability to penetrate fog and dust clouds and provides resilience against stray light artifacts from bright sources. The project will focus on the use of Antimonide-based strained layer superlattices (SLS) as a cost-effective and high yield detector material for dual-band FPAs. The project will be conducted in multiple phases, starting with Direct to Phase II (DP2) proposals, followed by fabrication capability demonstration in Phase II, and finally, dual-use applications in Phase III. The potential applications for this technology include enhanced vision for emergency response, earth observation, autonomous driving, maritime navigation, and security systems. The solicitation is currently open, and the application due date is March 31, 2025. More information can be found on the grants.gov website or the DOD SBIR/STTR Opportunities page.
    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.