Shop Floor Human Detection Using Low-Cost Equipment
ID: AF252-D018Type: BOTH
Overview

Topic

Shop Floor Human Detection Using Low-Cost Equipment

Agency

Agency: DODBranch: USAF

Program

Type: SBIRPhase: BOTH

Topic Link

https://www.sbir.gov/topics/11912

Additional Information

https://www.dodsbirsttr.mil/submissions/solicitation-documents/active-solicitations
Timeline
    Description

    The Department of Defense, specifically the United States Air Force, is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program for the development of a system titled "Shop Floor Human Detection Using Low-Cost Equipment." The objective is to create a prototype system that utilizes three-dimensional time-of-flight (ToF) sensors and software controls to enable mobile heavy industrial robots to operate safely in environments populated by humans, thereby eliminating the need for traditional static safety measures. This initiative is critical as it addresses the evolving demands for automation in dynamic industrial settings, ensuring safety while enhancing operational efficiency. Interested parties must submit their proposals by May 21, 2025, with the opportunity being open for applications starting April 2, 2025. For more details, visit the official solicitation page at SBIR.gov.

    Files
    No associated files provided.
    Similar Opportunities
    Autonomous Modular Material Handling Equipment for Space Logistics Operations -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, through the U.S. Space Force (USSF), is seeking proposals for the development of an Autonomous Modular Material Handling Equipment (MHE) system designed for space logistics operations. The objective is to create a rugged, air-transportable system capable of autonomously or semi-autonomously loading, transporting, and unloading heavy military cargo in austere environments, thereby enhancing logistics agility and mission responsiveness. This initiative addresses the critical need for efficient material handling in infrastructure-limited settings, supporting expeditionary space logistics missions. Interested parties must submit their proposals by August 20, 2025, with the opportunity being part of the SBIR program, and further details can be found at the provided source link.
    Integration of Wave Relay API Features into the Thales InterSense IS-1500 Visual Inertial Tracking Software -
    DOD
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking innovative software solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to integrate Wave Relay API features into the Thales InterSense IS-1500 Visual Inertial Tracking Software. The primary objective is to enhance local positioning capabilities for uncrewed and worn sensors during tactical operations by leveraging RF signal information, ensuring accuracy within 1 meter in a 300-meter by 300-meter area without GPS reliance, particularly in low-light conditions. This technology is crucial for improving the reliability of positioning solutions in GPS-denied environments, especially for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) sensor operations. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on June 25, 2025, with applications due by July 23, 2025, and can find more information at the DOD SBIR website.
    xTechOverwatch Open Topic -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Army, is seeking small business concerns (SBCs) to participate in the xTechOverwatch Open Topic, which is part of the xTechOverwatch Prize Competition. This initiative aims to develop innovative autonomous systems capable of conducting overwatch and terrain-shaping tasks using advanced AI, robotics, and secure networking, with a focus on unmanned platforms such as UAVs and UGVs. Selected winners from the xTechOverwatch competition will be the only firms eligible to submit an SBIR proposal under this topic, with a Direct to Phase II funding opportunity of up to $2 million for an 18-month performance period. Interested parties must submit their proposals by December 11, 2025, and can find more information on the competition and submission process at the provided links.
    Underwater Sensing in Surf Zone Environments -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army, is seeking proposals for the development of an underwater sensing system optimized for surf zone environments as part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The objective is to create a portable underwater sensor capable of detecting bathymetry and underwater hazards in shallow, bubbly conditions, which are critical for safe maritime operations and logistics support in contested regions. This technology is particularly important for enhancing situational awareness during over-the-shore operations, where traditional sensing methods are hindered by environmental factors such as surf zone bubbles. Proposals for Phase I are invited with a funding limit of $250,000 for a six-month performance period, with a submission deadline of August 20, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website.
    Phase I Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need -
    DOD
    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is seeking innovative defense-related dual-purpose technologies and solutions through its Phase I SBIR program, in collaboration with AFWERX. The objective is to identify and develop technologies that can fulfill Air Force stakeholder needs, close capability gaps, and enhance technological advancements, with a focus on commercial solutions that can be adapted for defense applications. This opportunity emphasizes the importance of aligning proposed solutions with the OUSD(R&E) Critical Technology Areas and aims to foster a robust industrial base for defense while ensuring that solutions are scalable and sustainable for both defense and non-defense markets. Proposals are due by August 5, 2025, and further details can be found at the provided source link: https://www.sbir.gov/topics/12160.
    Droppable Chemical Warfare Agent Sensor -
    DOD
    The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is seeking proposals for the development of a lightweight, droppable chemical warfare agent sensor as part of its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The objective is to create an ultra-compact device capable of real-time detection, identification, and geolocation of chemical threats, which can be deployed by uncrewed systems or individual personnel in contaminated environments. This sensor will enhance operational capabilities for Special Operations Forces by providing rapid hazard awareness and integrating seamlessly with existing systems like ATAK for real-time data visualization. The solicitation is set to open on June 25, 2025, with proposals due by July 23, 2025, and further details can be found at the DOD SBIR website.
    Underwater Sensing in Surf Zone Environments -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the U.S. Army, is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focused on developing an underwater sensing system for surf zone environments. The objective is to create a portable sensor capable of detecting bathymetry and underwater hazards in shallow, bubbly conditions, which is critical for safe maritime operations and logistics support in contested regions. This technology is particularly important for enhancing situational awareness during over-the-shore operations, where traditional sensing methods are hindered by environmental factors such as surf zone bubbles. Proposals for Phase I are due by August 20, 2025, with a funding amount of up to $250,000 for a six-month performance period. Interested parties can find more information and submit proposals through the official SBIR website.
    Mechanics and Control of Autonomous Legged Robotic Systems in Mud -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense, specifically the Army, is seeking proposals for the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program focused on the mechanics and control of autonomous legged robotic systems capable of navigating muddy environments. The objective is to develop a quadrupedal robot with a novel control architecture that can traverse deep mud with up to 20% leg intrusion at an average speed of 8 body lengths per minute, surpassing current capabilities. This initiative is critical for enhancing autonomous locomotion in challenging terrains, which has significant implications for military applications and potential dual-use scenarios such as disaster relief and search and rescue operations. Interested parties can submit proposals for Phase I, with funding up to $250,000 for a 6-month period, and must adhere to the application deadline of July 23, 2025. For more information, visit the official solicitation page at DOD SBIR/STTR.
    Open Topic Phase I Call for Innovative Defense-Related Dual-Purpose Technologies/Solutions with a Clear Air Force Stakeholder Need -
    DOD
    The Department of the Air Force (DAF) is seeking innovative defense-related dual-purpose technologies and solutions through its Open Topic Phase I Call, which is part of the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. This opportunity invites proposals that adapt non-defense commercial solutions to meet specific Air Force stakeholder needs, with a focus on technologies that can transition into the United States Air Force (USAF) and address capability gaps or provide technological advancements. The program aims to explore applied research and development efforts that can scale capabilities and grow the defense industrial base, with proposals due by August 5, 2025. Interested parties can find more information and submit their applications through the DOD SBIR/STTR website.
    Autonomous Space Cargo Network (ASCN): AI-Driven Logistics Automation and Digital Twin Integration for Space Mobility -
    DOD
    The Department of Defense (DoD) is seeking innovative solutions through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program to develop an Autonomous Space Cargo Network (ASCN) that integrates AI-driven logistics automation and digital twin technology for enhanced space mobility. The primary objective is to create a system that modernizes cargo handling and logistics operations at the Space Joint Movement Complex (SJMC), improving operational efficiency, accuracy, and resilience in both contested and commercial environments. This initiative is crucial for establishing a scalable, cybersecure logistics framework that supports U.S. Space Force sustainment strategies and future space missions. Interested parties should note that the solicitation is set to open on July 23, 2025, with applications due by August 20, 2025, and can find more information at the official SBIR website.