Air Force sbir 04. 1 Proposal Submission Instructions
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| OBJECTIVE: Develop optical fibers for the transmission of high-power, mid-IR wavelengths in the 2.0 to 5.0 micron range.
DESCRIPTION: High-power, mid-IR diode lasers are highly relevant to defense and commercial applications. It is desirable to connect these lasers to existing systems using small-core optical fibers. Optical fibers for high-power sources operating at wavelengths in the 2.0 to 5.0 micron range are required to provide system flexibility and reduced cost. These fibers must transmit multiple wavelengths with low loss and survive megawatts per square centimeter powers over a 3 to 10 meter distance. The output from the fiber should be near diffraction limited for the designed wavelength range. The fibers should have high thresholds for thermal, bending and tensile stress. A polarization maintaining capability is also of interest. There are many important applications for fiber-coupled, mid-IR lasers. These applications include infrared countermeasures (IRCM), infrared imaging, target designation, trace gas sensing, and medical applications. PHASE I: Fabricate small-core diameter optical fiber samples and characterize the numerical aperture, losses and other optical characteristics. PHASE II: Optimize and demonstrate an optical fiber that delivers multiple wavelengths in the 2.0 to 5.0 micron range. Demonstrate low-loss, high-strength and high power capability. Prototype optical fibers will be delivered at the end of Phase II. DUAL USE COMMERCIALIZATION: Fiber-coupled, high-power, mid-IR diode lasers have several military and civilian applications. IRCM, illumination, targeting, secure communications and sensing are important military applications for fiber-coupled lasers. Civilian applications include remote sensing and medical applications. REFERENCES: 1. Y. Raichlin, E. Shulzinger, A. Millo and A. Katzir, "Fiberoptic Evanescent Wave Spectroscopy (FEWS) System and Its Application in Science, Industry, Medicine and Environmental Protection," 5th International Conference on Mid-Infrared Optoelectronic Materials and Devices, September 8-11, 2002. 2. J. S. Sanghera, V. Q. Nguyen, P. C. Puresa, R. E. Miklos, F. H. Kung, and I. D. Aggarwal, “Fabrication of Long Lengths of Low-Loss IR Transmitting As40S(60-X)SeX Glass Fibers,” Journal of Lightwave Technology, Vol 14, No. 5, May 1996. 3. M. Mossadegh, J. S. Sanghera, D. Schaafsma, B. J. Cole, V. Q. Nguyen, R. E. Miklos, and I D. Aggarwal, “Fabrication of Single-Mode Chalcogenide Optical Fiber,” Journal of Lightwave Tech, Vol 16, No. 2, February 1998. 4. J. A. Harrington and A Katzir, “Specialty IR fibers tackle tough problems,” Laser Focus, Vol. 27, No. 6, June 1991. KEYWORDS: Optically Coupled Mid-IR Lasers, Fiber Coupling Mid-IR Lasers, Mid-IR Transmitting Optical Fibers AF04-008 TITLE: Lightweight Optics for High Energy Applications TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Materials/Processes, Sensors, Electronics OBJECTIVE: Develop high stiffness, lightweight, low cost mirror fabrication technology for tactical airborne and relay mirror beam control of high energy lasers. DESCRIPTION: Current conventional lightweight optics with areal densities of 15-20kg/m2 have been developed in the 1 meter diameter category and diameters of 1.5 meter may be possible in the near term, but the optics have not demonstrated performance under high laser-fluence levels. Even lighter weight mirror systems are possible in the 15kg/m2 range using membrane mirror technology but these usually require active wave front compensation to correct intrinsic deformation or other induced deformation of the mirror or support structure. Currently, lightweight optics development efforts are not concerned with thermal induced deformation or damage initiation resulting from High Energy Laser (HEL) irradiation. The overall goal of this project is to reduce the areal density of large diameter mirror components while maintaining high quality wave front control for HEL applications. Lightweight optics capable of handling HEL irradiation can potentially benefit airborne and relay mirror systems in tactical missions. While significant progress has been made in lightweight mirror technology under the Advanced Mirror System Demonstrator and other programs, development challenges still exist in many areas necessary to material procurement, fabrication, testing and scaling. Technologies proposed should consider the following performance criteria: optical figure, surface roughness, stiffness, faceplate print-through, actuator control, aberration correction and band-width, thermal conductivity and thermal manage-ment, thermal expansion, areal density, fabrication cost. Performance issues with HEL-coated lightweight optics are absolute reflectivity, absorption, coating durability, laser-induced degradation, coating uniformity, large area reflectivity. PHASE I: Investigate lightweight technologies by developing a fabrication and metrology plan. Analyze and estimate performance capabilities with the performance criteria listed above as a guideline. Develop scaling estimates correlating size, weight, stiffness and cost as critical parameters. PHASE II: Develop a prototype component or system with primary mirror of approximately 75-100cm diameter. Design and conduct mechanical and optical metrology to demonstrate the performance criteria above. DUAL USE COMMERCIALIZATION: Lightweight large diameter optics have been identified as a key technology for the AFRL/ARMS Relay Mirror program, the airborne tactical laser (ATL) and space-based laser (SBL) systems. The Lasers and Space Optical Systems (LASSOS) study of 1999 identified lightweight optics as one of four key technologies for the employment of space-based relay systems. The HEL Joint Technology Office (JTO) also identified lightweight, deployable optics as essential for a practical and affordable operational SBL and other HEL beam control applications. Laser transmitters based on large lightweight mirrors will enable increased operational range or enhanced lethality on target. Since the transmitted laser spot size and hence the fluence on target depends on the transmitter aperture diameter, doubling the transmitter diameter will result in four times increase in fluence with appropriate turbulence compensation techniques. Doubling the transmitter diameter would also allow four times the reduction in laser power for equivalent fluence on target. Since system weight is a linear combination of laser and beam control component weight, lightweight optics enable systems designers to balance component weight and cost for maximum laser performance. Lightweight optics and coatings capable of withstanding high power solid state laser fluence are important in tactical beam control systems such as the Mobile Active Tracking for Integrated Experiments (MATRIX) program which will develop advanced beam control for the C-130 gunship. Lightweight optics not only reduce the weight of the primary but this translates into weight reductions in the gimbal system. In addition a lightweight pointing and tracking system enables rapid repointing and targeting and jitter stabilization, extremely important in a target rich tactical environment. Potential commercial applications include lightweight structures for space-based and ground-based astronomical telescope employment. REFERENCES: 1. H.S. Stockman Ed. The next Generation Space telescope (AURA, 1997). 2. F.A. Paquin, Materials for Mirror Systems; an Overview,” Proc. SPIE Int.Symp. Optical Science, Eng. And Instrumentation Vol.2543(1995),2-11. 3. E.P. Kasl and D.Crowe,” A critical review of light weight composite mirror technology.” In Advanced Materials for Optics and Precision Structures, SPIE CR67 1 59-175, 1997. KEYWORDS: Lightweight Optics, High Energy Lasers, Tactical Systems, High Energy Laser Coatings AF04-009 TITLE: High Repetition Rate Pulsed Power Generators TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Materials/Processes, Electronics, Weapons OBJECTIVE: Develop compact, lightweight, high voltage pulsed power generators capable of delivering pulse repetition frequencies (PRFs) of several kHz into an approximately 100 ohm load. DESCRIPTION: This effort will develop and demonstrate design concepts for a compact, lightweight, pulsed power generator system capable of delivering PRFs of 1-10 kHz at voltages ranging from 100-1000kV into an approximately 100 ohm load. Present pulsed power generators are generally centered around two primary technologies: resonant transformers and Marx generators. Whereas resonant transformer technology is capable of producing voltages on the order of 1 MV and PRFs of several kHz, they are generally heavy due to the large volume of insulating oil required. Marx generators, on the other hand, can be made very compact and lightweight, especially when designed to drive impulsive sources. However, their performance is usually limited to <100 Hz. It is desirable to develop lightweight pulsed power technology that will deliver higher PRFs. Precision triggering is also a desirable feature (trigger jitter < 10% of pulse risetime, for example). PHASE I: Phase I will build and test a working model capable of at least 30 kV and 1 second bursts of fast PRF pulses and develop an initial commercialization concept and plan. PHASE II: Requires the development and demonstration of a prototype high-PRF Marx generator capable of delivering the required output. DUAL USE COMMERCIALIZATION: Military uses of this technology include airborne and ground-based pulsed radar systems and high power microwave systems. Civilian sector applications include pulsed radar, counter mine and numerous manufacturing applications. REFERENCES: 1. J.R Mayes and W.J. Carey, “Sub-nanosecond Jitter Operation of Marx Generators,” Proc. International Pulsed Power Conference, 2001. 2. J.C. Kellogg, “A Laser-Triggered Mini-Marx for Low-Jitter, High Voltage Applications,” Proc. 12th IEEE Pulsed Power Conference, Monterey CA, June 1999. 3. C. E. Baum and J. M. Lehr, “Charging of Marx Generators,” CESDN 43, Air Force Research Laboratory/DEHP, 1 September 2000. 4. W.J. Carey and W.C. Nunnally, “Generation of sub-nanosecond pulses using a solid state Marx circuit with TRAPATT diodes as switches,” Proc. 21st Intl Power Modulator Symposium, Cost Mesa CA, June 1994. 5. F.E. Peterkin, et al., “Modular Compact Marx Generator,” Proc. AMEREM 2002 Conference, Annapolis MD, June 2002. KEYWORDS: Marx Generator, Pulsed Power, High Voltage, High Repetition Rate, High Power Microwave AF04-010 TITLE: High Brightness Mid-Infrared (2-6 Micron) Semiconductor Laser Development TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Sensors, Electronics, Battlespace OBJECTIVE: Develop the next generation of high brightness two to six micron semiconductor laser diodes and laser diode arrays. DESCRIPTION: High power mid-IR diode arrays have recently been demonstrated and play a key role as pump sources for longer-wavelength optically pumped lasers (e.g,- 3 to 6 micron lasers). However, since the primary interest of the commercial diode industry is in telecommunication lasers, which operate in the near-IR (below 1.5 micron), there are no commercial vendors for high power mid-IR laser diodes or laser diode arrays. In fact, companies that recently were able to provide mid-IR diodes and diode arrays no longer do so. Consequently, the next generation of this important class of diode lasers is not being developed. Further, research and development of near-IR semiconductor lasers has not "jump-started" progress in mid-IR semiconductor lasers since the materials are, often, entirely different. The aim of this SBIR effort will be to encourage the development and manufacture of high power laser diodes, laser diode arrays, and advanced high power architectures that emit in the 2 to 6 micron region. There are many important applications for intense, coherent, mid-infrared, diode laser sources including infrared countermeasures, secure communications, infrared imaging, target designation, trace gas sensing and identify friend or foe (IFF). A major military application, that requires relatively high power, is infrared-countermeasures (IRCM). In recent military conflicts, about 85% of the air-combat losses were from surface-to-air-missiles (SAMs). The effective-ness of SAMS, coupled with their low cost, indicates the necessity of equally effective IRCM systems. The urgency for developing cost effective IRCM systems has been compounded by the potential for attacks against commercial aviation. Certainly, IRCM systems based on high power, compact, and rugged mid-IR diodes or diode arrays are top candidates to fill this role. PHASE I: Investigate and specify epitaxial materials to be used for the crystal growth of high power mid-infrared (2-6 um)laser material. Fabricate and test a mid-IR laser diode, laser diode array or other high power semiconductor diode. PHASE II: Grow and optimize 2-6 micron materials for inclusion in high-power 2-6 um linear diode arrays and other high brightness architectures. Several prototype laser diodes, laser diode arrays or other high power diode architectures, to include fast-axis collimation optics, shall be developed and characterized. DUAL USE COMMERCIALIZATION: High power mid-IR diode lasers have several military and civilian applications. The military applications include infrared countermeasures (IRCM), illumination, targeting, collision avoidance, IFF, secure communication, and Weapons of Mass Destruction detection. The civilian applications include optical pumps for mid-IR lasers, sources for long-baseline remote sensing, marking, and medical applications. REFERENCES: 1. R. Kaspi, et.al. "High power and high brightness from an optically pumped InAs/InGaSb type-II midinfrared laser with low confinement", Appl. Phys. Lett., 81(3), 406, 2002. 2. C. Felix, et. al. “Near room-temperature midinfrared interband cascade laser”, Appl. Phys. Lett., 74(4), 628, 1999. 3. R.Kaspi, et. al., “Optically pumped integrated absorber 3.4 micron laser with InAs-to-InGaAsSb type-II transition”, Appl. Phys. Lett., 79(3), 302, 2001. 4. B. Lane, et. al., “High Power InAsSb/InAsSbP electrical injection laser diodes emitting between 3 and 5 microns”, Materials Sci. and Engin. B-Solid State Materials for Advanced Technology, 74(1-3), 52, 2000. KEYWORDS: Mid-Infrared Semiconductor Laser, Optically Pumped Semiconductor Laser, W Laser, Gallium Antimonide, IRCM AF04-015 TITLE: Advanced Algorithms for Exploitation of Space-Based Imagery to Detect Targets against Structured Earth Backgrounds TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Information Systems, Space Platforms OBJECTIVE: Develop innovative algorithms to optimize techniques for detection, identification and tracking of objects in images taken from space-based sensors of targets against structured Earth backgrounds. DESCRIPTION: The Air Force Research Laboratory's Advanced Optical Technologies Branch (AFRL/VSBT) is interested in innovative, effective and computationally efficient techniques to optimize the performance of space-based optical (ultraviolet/visible/infrared) imaging systems to detect targets against structured Earth backgrounds. Mitigation requires advanced algorithms based upon spatial, temporal and spectral techniques. Data from airborne and space-based missions has led to a database of optical data (ultraviolet, visible and infrared) to characterize the optical properties of the environment. It is expected that the proposals will exploit these databases to explore potential space-based techniques for clutter-mitigation/contrast-enhancement techniques to develop, validate and optimize signature-based object-detection algorithms. It is expected that, as a result of this effort, new algorithms will be devised and tested. Figures of merit in assessing algorithm effectiveness include improvements in materials identification, enhanced probability of object detection in structured backgrounds and reduced false-alarm rates. PHASE I: Conduct analyses, using real data, to develop algorithms for clutter-mitigation/contrast-enhancement techniques to optimize object detection, search and track capabilities in imagery collected from space-based sensors of targets viewed against structured Earth backgrounds. Compare and contrast the candidate algorithms. PHASE II: Perform detailed analyses and demonstrate the efficacy of algorithms for target detection, search and track in structured Earth backgrounds. Conduct tests, as required, to assess the effectiveness of the algorithms. Develop and demonstrate an automated, near-real-time processing system using real-world data sets. DUAL USE COMMERCIALIZATION: The novel algorithms and processing techniques developed under this effort will potentially be useful in Phase III in military systems requiring autonomous stand-off detection of sensor clutter induced by scene structure and the data-collection process, and spectral interferences. They will potentially also be useful for non-military applications involving autonomous detection under similar conditions of scene-induced and sensor-induced clutter, and noise and spectral interferences. Potential commercial examples include a processing system for application in fields such as medicine, industrial processing and quality control. REFERENCES: 1. Algorithms for multispectral and hyperspectral imagery, SPIE Conference Proceedings, Orlando, FL, Apr 1994, A.E. Iverson, ed. 2. Classification of hyperspectral images using wavelet transforms and neural networks, T. Moon and E. Merenyi in "Wavelet applications in signal and image processing III", Proceedings of the SPIE Meeting, San Diego, CA, July 12-14, 1995. Pt. 2, Vol. 2569, 1995, pp. 725-735. 3. Thermal imagery spectral analysis, B.H. Collins et al.., Proceedings of the SPIE Meeting, San Diego, CA, 28-30 Jul 1997, "Imaging spectrometry III", p. 94-105. 4. Target detection in a forest environment using. spectral imagery, R.C. Olsen et al., Proceedings of the SPIE Meeting, San Diego, CA, 28 -30 Jul. 1997, "Imaging Spectrometry III", pp. 46-56. 5. Unsupervised interference rejection approach to target detection and classification for hyperspectral imagery, C. Chang et al., Opt. Eng. 37 (3) 735 (Mar 98). KEYWORDS: Multi-Spectral, Hyper-Spectral, Ultra-Spectral, Ultraviolet, Visible, Infrared, Data Analysis, Data Processing, Algorithms AF04-017 TITLE: Advanced Cost Model for Space Concepts Development TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Materials/Processes, Space Platforms, Weapons OBJECTIVE: Develop and demonstrate an advanced life cycle cost model for transformational space concepts development. DESCRIPTION: An advanced cost prediction model, not based on extrapolation of current technology trends, is needed to reflect the technology readiness level (TRL) of new space technologies required to enable future space concepts and ultimately operational space systems. Innovative cost estimating techniques are required because existing, traditional cost modeling techniques do not provide adequate insight into the impacts of the application of emerging or maturing technologies to the transformational space concepts. Typically, current cost models estimate the cost benefits or penalties of an emerging technology by using prediction methods based on component weight, power, or other parameters extrapolated from current state- of-the -art. Such techniques may be adequate for the continued advancement of evolving technologies but generally miss the mark for low TRL or immature technologies, resulting in under estimating the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) for transformational space concepts due to the non linear TRL evolution relationship. Long range planning dictates that the Air Force Space Command planners prioritize the development of space technologies very early in their maturation cycle; as early as during conceptual or preliminary design to forecast future space system LCC as much as 18 to 25 years into the future. The advanced cost estimating model should address the cost impact of the TRL progression required to support future space concepts. An advanced cost-estimating model addressing the cost impacts for the various TRLs is required to support transformational space concepts in cost effectiveness assessments, AOAS, concept selection, investment analysis and other key decisions points. PHASE I: Perform in-depth case studies analysis to identify the cost assessment problems of space programs that have experienced major cost growth. The AF will provide case study material based on current and historical Program Office estimates and actual costs. Focusing on Responsive Spacelift and Advanced Space Sensors, assess the impact of TRLs at the inception of these programs and determine the level of system cost growth attributed to the maturity and applicability factors. Based on the findings, define and document a strategy to develop an advanced LCC estimating model for transformational space concepts. PHASE II: Develop a prototype advanced cost-estimating software tool to support the LCC planning and budgeting of future space concepts and operational system architectures while accounting for the cost of technology investment required to evolve the TRL. Demonstrate the feasibility and applicability to an ongoing space program. Further refine the advanced cost-estimating model through prototype iterations. Demonstrate the utility and effectiveness of the cost estimating methodology/model by applying it to two AF provided cases, Responsive Spacelift and Advanced Space Sensors. Evaluate the demonstration results and document. DUAL USE COMMERCIALIZATION: The tool developed under this effort has diverse military and commercial applications. Military and commercial planning and budgeting activities that need to forecast the LCC of future systems that depend on technology development could benefit from this cost-estimating tool. Target areas include military and non-military satellite programs, ground systems, communication, aircraft, as well as non-aerospace applications. REFERENCES: 1. DoDD 5000.1 “The Defense Acquisition System,” 12 May 2003. 2. DoDI 5000.2, “Operation of the Defense Acquisition System,” 12 May 2003 3. GAO/NSIAD-99-162, Best Practices, "Better Management of Technology Development Can Improve Weapon System Outcomes," July 1999. 4. Program Management, Tools, "Technical Performance Measurement- A Program Manager's Barometer," November-December 2002. 5. SBIR AF04-039, “Advanced Technology Development Cost Estimation Methodology,” Jan 03. KEYWORDS: Advanced Cost Model, Technology Readiness Level, Transformational Space Concepts, Subsystems, Cost Estimating, Cost Analysis AF04-018 TITLE: Light Weight, Low Volume Deployable Antenna Structures TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Sensors, Electronics, Battlespace OBJECTIVE: Develop lightweight, low cost, and low volume deployable antenna structures for use with an Electronically Scanned Array (ESA) and other large aperture space applications. DESCRIPTION: Future space-borne Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems, such as the Space Based Radar (SBR) system, will require larger apertures as the demand for high-resolution imagery and tracking products increases. Critical to meeting this need is the effective power-aperture placed on orbit. As spacecraft are severely power limited, aperture is the obvious trade space for increasing performance. Needed is a lightweight and low volume antenna structure that will enable an effective stowage capability. This capability will allow volume savings, thereby possibly allowing more spacecraft per launch vehicle. Thus, not only is increased spacecraft performance acquired, but also reduced mission cost as more spacecraft may be launched per launch vehicle. The antenna structure must be simple in design to increase reliability while deploying and must take advantage of “new age” materials for maximal strength and minimal weight and volume. PHASE I: Develop designs and technologies for lightweight, low cost, and low volume deployable space antennas. The following factors should be considered: 1. materials effects in the space environment, 2. ability to simulate structural integrity throughout mission phases, 3. ability to model launch, deployment, and operations phases of spacecraft at multiple altitudes. The design should ensure performance of antenna (deformation, jittering, relaxation time) given realistic space environmental and materials factors. Recommend materials, structural components and design, and deployment methodology to ensure mission success. 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