Non-Destructive Evaluation for Corrosions/Defects of Naval Air Vehicles
ID: N241-014Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Non-Destructive Evaluation for Corrosions/Defects of Naval Air Vehicles

Agency

Department of DefenseN/A

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTHYear: 2024

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/node/2479703

Additional Information

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

    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Non-Destructive Evaluation for Corrosions/Defects of Naval Air Vehicles" as part of their SBIR 24.1 BAA program. The objective is to develop an imaging system capable of detecting hidden corrosions/defects in naval air vehicles. The proposed solution should be able to detect defects with sizes greater than 0.005 in. on a curved surface with a radius of curvature of 2 in. or less. The system should be portable, weigh no more than 12 lbs., and be compliant with FCC regulations. The Phase I involves developing an imaging system and demonstrating its feasibility through modeling and simulation. Phase II focuses on developing a prototype and evaluating its performance on a Navy test panel. Phase III involves transitioning the technology into a system that can be acquired by the Navy. The technology has potential applications in the private sector for detecting degradation of aluminum material in commercial aviation assets.

    Files
    No associated files provided.
    Similar Opportunities
    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 - 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 in remote locations where proper test infrastructure is unavailable. The Autonomous Optical Sensor (AOS) system will incorporate high-speed imaging cameras with advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities. The sensor will operate autonomously for an extended period with either a battery or renewable energy source and wirelessly receive setup and calibration data from a centralized command center. In Phase I, the awardee will research and define an integrated AOS configuration that includes various types of optical sensors and develop an AI framework to manage the system. Phase II will involve creating a prototype of the AOS and refining the integrated system design for optimal performance. The potential impacts 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 duration is not specified, but the solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. For more information and to submit a proposal, visit the DOD SBIR website.
    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 - 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 design and rationale supporting the solution, while Phase II focuses on developing and testing a prototype. The final product should be fully documented and include operating instructions, interface control documents, and programmability commands. The potential impacts of this technology include new mission deployment possibilities for remote sensor operation and control, as well as applications in areas such as home security, healthcare, additive manufacturing, and automotive safety. The deadline for proposal submission is March 31, 2025. For more information, visit the solicitation agency's website here.
    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 - 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 - Advanced Enabling High-Speed Technologies
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Advanced Enabling High-Speed Technologies" in their SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is specifically interested in technologies related to additive manufacturing techniques, materials, propulsion combined cycles, and hot structures. They are also looking for advancements in the understanding and characterization of novel fluid dynamics that enhance propulsion performance. The objective is to achieve coherence between a cooperating set of commodity devices, resulting in increased thrust to weight, fuel efficiencies, and propellant mass fractions. This solicitation is open for Phase II proposals only, and Phase I proposals will not be accepted or reviewed. Phase II will involve designing and evaluating enabling technologies at the system and subsystem level, as well as advancing modeling and simulation tools. Physical hardware proposals should include development, installation, integration, demonstration, and/or test and evaluation of the proposed prototype system. Software or advanced tool development proposals should have a development approach anchored in the physics of the problem and ways to validate the software against existing test data. The Phase II effort consists of a base period of 12 months and an option period of 12 months. Phase III of this project will focus on transition and commercialization of the developed technologies. The proposer is required to obtain funding from private sector or non-SBIR Government sources to develop the prototype software into a viable product or non-R&D service for sale in military or private sector markets. The technologies developed under this topic will have applications in both commercial and military sectors, including commercial transportation, high-speed delivery, and responsiveness to fluidic environments. For more information and to submit proposals, interested parties can visit the DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual topic page on the SBIR website (https://www.sbir.gov/node/2492697). The solicitation is currently open, and the application due date is March 31, 2025.
    DOD SBIR 24.4 Annual - Advanced Enabling High-Speed Technologies
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Advanced Enabling High-Speed Technologies" as part of the SBIR program. The research focuses on advancements in additive manufacturing techniques, materials, propulsion combined cycles, and hot structures. The objective is to deliver combat power and lethality by achieving responsiveness, intensity, and the ability to deliver munitions at range. The technology sought includes propulsion solutions using high-density, storable, and rapidly loadable propellants, as well as advancements in understanding and characterizing novel fluid dynamics for enhanced propulsion performance. The solicitation is open for Phase II proposals only, and proposers must demonstrate feasibility and potential military or commercial applications. The Phase II effort consists of a base period of 12 months and an option period of 12 months. The ultimate goal is to transition and commercialize the developed technologies for both military and commercial applications, particularly in the areas of manned or unmanned air and space platforms.
    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 - Advanced Manufacturing for Common Launch Container
    Active
    Department of Defense
    The Department of Defense (DOD) is seeking proposals for the topic of "Advanced Manufacturing for Common Launch Container" as part of the SBIR 24.4 Annual solicitation. The objective of this topic is to develop applied research towards an innovative capability to use advanced manufacturing and iterative design to enable a Common Launch Container to meet military specification requirements for storage, transportation, and munition launch. The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), and offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals and their country of origin. The research should address the development of an iterative design process and advanced manufacturing to design and validate a munition container for transportation, storage, and launch. The system should be designed to launch the munition at 12-18 feet per second from the pallet on the cargo ramp or pallet in free flight after cargo drop. The feasibility study in Phase I should investigate all options that meet or exceed the minimum performance parameters specified and recommend the option that best achieves the objective. Phase II involves developing, installing, and demonstrating a prototype system on a SOCOM aircraft. The system could have broad military applications where rapid iteration and production are needed, and it may be selected for production or follow-on iterations for future applications. The project duration is not specified, but the solicitation is open until March 31, 2025. More details and the application process can be found on the DOD SBIR 24.4 topic page.