Department of the navy (don) 18. 1 Small Business Innovation Research (sbir) Proposal Submission Instructions introduction

The gearboxes are in constant use whenever a craft is operating, and any increase in efficiency and decrease in required maintenance is valuable. The intent of this effort is to decrease the weight of the current gearbox design (4,730 lbs) and remain within the existing gearbox space envelope of approximately 75” Long x 50” deep x 93” high while minimizing the overall impact to existing auxiliary support systems and sub-systems. Along with decreasing the weight, making a more serviceable gearbox would lead to decreased repair costs. Typically, each major repair requiring gearbox removal requires approximately 200 labor hours and Depot Level repairs can cost up to $100k. Additionally, an innovative new gearbox design providing multi-speed functionality would allow for increased efficiency during lighter loads and enable an overall reduction in fuel consumption. The lift fan has a fixed geometry and is the primary power consumer in the SSC drivetrain. Current SSC gearboxes have a single output speed. By allowing for multispeed functionality for the lift fan, the powertrain can be optimized for environmental and cargo conditions. The new gearbox design must be compatible with the current craft configuration regarding form, fit, and function, requiring minimal adjustments to surrounding equipment and support the PMS 377 LCAC Lightweight Gearbox Design specifications (Ref 5).

PHASE I: Define and develop a concept for a new gearbox for SSC that meets the requirements as described above. Demonstrate the feasibility of the concept in meeting Navy needs and also demonstrate that the lightweight gearbox concept can be readily and cost-effectively manufactured through standard industry practices by material testing and analytical modeling. The Phase I Option, if awarded, should include the initial layout and capabilities to build the prototype in Phase II. Develop a Phase II plan.

PHASE II: Based on the results of the Phase I effort and the Phase II Statement of Work (SOW), develop and deliver a prototype lightweight gearbox for evaluation by performing a 100 hr loaded cyclic test in accordance with MIL-G-17859. Evaluate the prototype to determine its compatibility with current craft layout and ability to perform to requirements. Demonstrate system performance at the power train test site before installation on a SSC Test Craft. Use evaluation results to refine the prototype into a design that will meet the SSC Craft Specifications. Prepare a Phase III development plan and cost analysis to transition the technology to Navy use.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: If Phase II is successful, support the Navy in transitioning the lightweight gearbox for Navy use on the ACV program. Refine the design of the gearbox, according to the Phase III SOW for evaluation to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. Support the Navy for test and validation in accordance with Craft Specifications to certify and qualify the system for Navy use and for transition into operational SSCs. Following testing and validation, ensure that the end design will provide an overall lower-weight, variable-speed lift fan with increased maintainability, reduced fuel consumption, increased efficiency, and compatibility with existing systems aboard the craft.

The SSC lightweight gearbox will have private sector commercial potential for hovercrafts of this scale operating in the near- or on-shore environment. Commercial applications include ferries, the oil and mineral industry, and cold climate research and exploration. Other industrial or military machinery in this power range like helicopters could also benefit from technologies developed during this effort.

REFERENCES:

1. Mancini, Joseph H. “An Overview of Advancement in Helicopter Transmission Design.” https://ntrs.nasa.gov/archive/nasa/casi.ntrs.nasa.gov/19830011853.pdf

2. Segade-Robleda, Abraham, Vilán-Vilán, José-Antonio, López-Lago, Marcos and Casarejos-Ruiz, Enrique. “Split Torque Gearboxes: Requirements, Performance and Applications.” University of Vigo, Spain. http://cdn.intechopen.com/pdfs/35257.pdf

3. White, G. “Design study of a split-torque helicopter transmission.” Cleveland, OH: Transmission Research Inc. http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1243/0954410981532180?journalCode=piga

4. Rashidi, Majid, and Krantz, Timothy. “Dynamics of a Split Torque Helicopter Transmission.” Cleveland State University, Lewis Research Center. http://engagedscholarship.csuohio.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1127&context=scholbks
5. PMS 377 LCAC Lightweight Gearbox Design (uploaded to SITIS 11/29/2017)

KEYWORDS: Compact Gearbox; Ship-to-Shore Connector; Landing Craft Air Cushion 100; Fuel Efficiency; Hovercraft; Variable Speed Gearbox Lift Fan

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Ground/Sea Vehicles

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: PMS 404, ASW Training Target

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop a new system to program the Mark 39 Expendable Mobile Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Training Target (EMATT) in the field.

DESCRIPTION: Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) training is obtained most effectively when air, surface, and subsurface platforms and their ASW SONAR crews train in the operational environment where they would be tasked with locating enemy submarines. Training against live submarines is costly and usually not available; therefore, mobile ASW training targets are critical training assets in filling this role. The Field Programmability System (FPS) addition to the Mark 39 EMATT gives its users more options to improve its emulation of a submarine for ASW proficiency training that is conducted in actual operationally meaningful environments due to its expendable and easily deployable nature.

The Mark 39 EMATT vehicle, the Run Geometry Application Software, and the Portable Target Programmer are the three main components of the EMATT FPS. The EMATT FPS provides the user total control of the creation and maintenance of run geometries for transferal to the EMATT target. A geometry or run plan is a set of data that controls the course of an EMATT target. The user can customize geometries to compensate for changing operational requirements, diverse oceanographic conditions, and the skill level desired for ASW training exercise.

Currently, the Run Geometry Application (RGA) is the front-end design tool and interface for the FPS. RGA interfaces with the Portable Target Programmer (PTP), which provides temporary storage of the required information to program the EMATT target. The PTP is a battery-powered storage device capable of downloading geometries from the RGA to the Mark 39 EMATT vehicle. The PTP connects to the host computer (PC) and Mark 39 EMATT vehicle via a FTDI RS232 host link cable. PTPs are the main problem and are currently being returned due to issues such as having a non-functional charging circuit, dead batteries, and failing electrical components which causes the PTP to be unable to communicate to RGA and/or EMATT. In addition, the Navy currently faces operational and procurement risk due to these issues and electronic obsolescence problems. The Navy needs to reduce the current $6k purchase cost for a single PTP unit by 80% for each FPS by incorporating low-cost technologies or by eliminating the need of a PTP.

Current technology has advanced beyond the programming and communication types in use by the ASW targets. The RGA software currently works only on Windows-based computers and should be redesigned/repackaged to execute on multiple smart devices operating system (OS), focusing on Android OS, Apple iOS and Windows OS. Porting the software from one environment to another is much less costly then starting from scratch. In addition, smart devices are more portable and can replace the need of carrying a laptop and a PTP out in the field. Therefore, having the RGA running on a smart device, eliminating the current PTP, and having the smart device communicate to the EMATT is the best path forward. Currently the PTP can take up to 10 minutes to program one EMATT vehicle, and can only program on average six EMATT targets before it needs to recharge its Nickle Cadmium batteries. Various unique designs promise substantial improvement over the current device capabilities, such as upgrading the nearly obsolete RS232 cable to an Ethernet cable which can increase programing speed by a factor of four. Changing the battery chemistry can increase capacity, therefore allowing for programming more EMATT targets on a single charge. In addition, consideration should be given to minimize the size and cost with the maximization of simplicity and usability. The current PTP is the same size as a Pelican™ Storm Case IM 2100. The external dimension for the Pelican Storm Case IM 2100 is 14.20" x 11.40" x 6.50" and the interior dimension is 13.00" x 9.20" x 6.00". Reducing the size by 50% is desirable; however, eliminating the need of the PTP is the goal. Simplicity will come in the form of system ease of use and maintainability, such as removing the use of physical cables, the need of carrying the PTP, and the need of maintaining PTP in the field. The Navy will require an Interface Control Document (ICD) between the RGA, PTP, and EMATT to ensure forward compatibility.

Work produced in Phase II may become classified. Note: The prospective contractor(s) must be U.S. Owned and Operated with no Foreign Influence as defined by DOD 5220.22-M, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, unless acceptable mitigating procedures can and have been implemented and approved by the Defense Security Service (DSS). The selected contractor and/or subcontractor must be able to acquire and maintain a secret level facility and Personnel Security Clearances, in order to perform on advanced phases of this contract as set forth by DSS and NAVSEA in order to gain access to classified information pertaining to the national defense of the United States and its allies; this will be an inherent requirement. The selected company will be required to safeguard classified material IAW DoD 5220.22-M during the advance phases of this contract.

PHASE I: Design and prove the feasibility of a concept for a new FPS. The objective is to show the feasibility of developing technology that accomplishes the requirements in a cost-effective manner. Multiple options should be brought to the Navy’s attention, none of which will modify the form, fit and function of the Mark 39 EMATT. The Navy will make the Performance Specification for the Mark 39 EMATT available for the small business. Identify the most feasible programming and communication technology that meets Navy needs; and explain how that technology can improve the current Mark 39 EMATT programming. A Software Development Plan (SDP) or contractor’s equivalent is required for proof of concept. The Phase I effort will include prototype plans to be developed in Phase II.

PHASE II: Based on the results of Phase I and the Phase II Statement of Work (SOW), develop and deliver a prototype to the Government for evaluation as appropriate. The prototype will not be returned to the small business. The prototype will be evaluated to determine its capability in meeting the performance goals defined in the Phase II SOW and the Navy requirements for a FPS and to test reliability by executing numerous programming cycles. Refine the prototype, using evaluation results, into an initial design that will meet Navy requirements. The Navy will require an Interface Control Document for the new FPS. Prepare a Phase III development plan to transition the technology to Navy use.

It is probable that the work under this effort will be classified under Phase II (see Description section for details).

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: Support the Navy in transitioning the technology for Navy ASW training targets. Develop a target for evaluation to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. Support the Navy for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Navy ASW training targets most commonly used for the Mark 39 EMATT.

The Mark 39 EMATT target with an improved FPS would improve its suitability for numerous commercial applications including oceanography profiling, water sampling, and other underwater data collection applications. The improved FPS could reduce cost and increase lifecycle use, which is very desirable for these data collection applications.

REFERENCES:

1. “MK39 Expendable Mobile ASW Training Target and Field Programmability System.” Lockheed Martin, 2017. http://www.lockheedmartin.com/content/dam/lockheed/data/ms2/documents/MK-39-productcard.pdf

2. Takeuchi, K., Tanaka, T. and Tanzawa, T. “A multipage cell architecture for high-speed programming multilevel NAND flash memories.” IEEE Journal of Solid State Circuits, 1998. http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/705361/

3. “USB to RS232 Adapter – Professional Part No. XS880 1” (Spec Sheet). usconverters.com, 2016; http://www.usconverters.com/downloads/xs8801/xs8801.pdf

4. Adams, J., et al. “Bluetooth Application for Military Communications.”; 2007; http://edge.rit.edu/edge/Reports/public/2006-07/Technical_Papers/P07304_Technical_Paper.pdf

5. Fremzel, Lou. “The Fundamentals Of Short-Range Wireless Technology.” Electronic Design, 2012. http://www.electronicdesign.com/communications/fundamentals-short-range-wireless-technology

KEYWORDS: Mark 39 EMATT Target; ASW Training Target; Data Interface for FPS; Field Programmability System; RS232 Protocol; FDTI RS232 Chipset

TECHNOLOGY AREA(S): Battlespace, Electronics, Sensors

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: ONR Code 35: HIJENKS Leap Ahead

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120-130, which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services, including export of sensitive technical data, or the Export Administration Regulation (EAR), 15 CFR Parts 730-774, which controls dual use items. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals (FNs), their country(ies) of origin, the type of visa or work permit possessed, and the statement of work (SOW) tasks intended for accomplishment by the FN(s) in accordance with section 5.4.c.(8) of the Announcement. Offerors are advised foreign nationals proposed to perform on this topic may be restricted due to the technical data under US Export Control Laws.

OBJECTIVE: Develop an electronic battle damage indicator (eBDI) tool for use with non-kinetic high-power radio frequency (HPRF) systems. Rather than rely on visual or behavioral cues, this eBDI tool should utilize active and/or passive electronic sensing, providing a unique method to assess electronic system disruption or damage imposed by HPRF.

DESCRIPTION: Currently, evaluations of HPRF sources and other non-kinetic counter-electronic systems are impeded by the inability to conduct effective electronic battle damage assessment. In a non-kinetic engagement, there may not be obvious physical damage to observe after the engagement. This potential lack of physical evidence requires alternative means to assess these electronic targets. An eBDI tool should have the ability to acquire pre- and post-engagement electromagnetic (EM) target signatures and determine the level of target electronic system disruption via electronic operational state degradation, disruption, or damage imposed causing change to output EM signature status. Note that the level of change will vary depending on the initial quality/quantity of the signal as well as the magnitude of change in EM output signal from the system being affected as a function of design, attenuation, or environment, thus the system design will need to focus on sensitivity or other related factors in signal output that can be detected and correlated to the original operation and the RF source output. Therefore, the sensors associated with the eBDI system may need to establish an effective baseline signal (before HPRF interaction) and survive the HPRF interaction to provide a sufficient, post-HPRF signal analysis to perform the eBDI function. This eBDI tool will actively interrogate or passively “listen” to intended or unintended emissions across a large portion of the spectrum to assess a wide variety of potential targets, both within and outside of enclosures, with near-real-time reporting. Unique interrogation and assessment methods may include, but are not limited to, linear and nonlinear scattering analysis, iterative phase-conjugation or time-reversal techniques, and machine learning or knowledge-based radar techniques for detection and classification. The eBDI hardware must be compact and capable of surviving an HPRF event. Additionally, the eBDI hardware must also be able to measure varying RF output from the HPRF source in close proximity to verify that the expected RF output was produced at the source to a degree providing a cross-check on system performance and correlation to measured eBDI state changes. Technical risks include: ability to discern signals of the electronics of interest from background noise, agility for real-time on-board assessment of electronic system signals, operation in a high-power EM environment, ability to operate in a possible dynamic-motion environment, and sensing across a wide variety of electronic system RF emissions while maintaining low Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP).

PHASE I: Conceptualize, design, develop, and model key elements for an innovative HPRF eBDI system that can meet the requirements discussed in the description section. Design and model a sensor capable of close-proximity verification of the expected RF output from the HPRF system. Assess potential sensors and associated RF signal processing algorithm to identify the critical electronic system of interest. This assessment should include the consideration of active versus passive sensors, Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) survivability as well as SWaP/Cost limitations. Rank the sensors and associated RF signal processing algorithms into an initial preference order based upon predicted performance across one or more type of complex electronic control system. Performance of the required electronic state sensing can be achieved with new sensors, existing sensors, new techniques, new algorithms, or a combination of these methods. Perform modeling and simulation to provide initial assessment of the performance (expected sensitivity, response time, time correlation, magnitude, vector/directional correlation, spectrum mapping, etc.) of the concept. Design a potential system with an evaluation of the effects of the HPRF irradiation.

The proposed design system should be able to demonstrate a path towards providing a compact solution (with low SWaP) that can be integrated onto one or more Naval platforms in a future Phase. Cost analysis and material development should be included to ascertain critical limitations not yet readily available given current technology. The design and modeling results of Phase I should lead to plans to build a prototype unit in Phase II.

PHASE II: Phase II will involve the design refinement, procurement, integration, assembly, and testing of a proof of concept brass-board prototype leveraging the Phase I effort. The Phase II brass-board prototype will be capable of providing near-real-time feedback concerning: the operation of the HPRF source, which may be wideband pulses (100-1000 MHz, 2 – 200 ns) or narrowband (500 MHz – 5 GHz, pulse widths, 1 ns - 5 µs), as well as the response of one additional more complex electronic control system and/or computer system, specified by the government team, from one or more incident HPRF pulses. The versatility of the sensor and signal processing approach will be required for this phase, with an objective of assessment of three or four different classes of electronic systems. The primary target electronic system status eBDI indicator that provides a signal of effective RF source effects to be measured may vary across different classes of electronics (computers, servers, routers, controls, sensors, etc.), which will require the sensor and signal processing to have sufficient flexibility to address the variation in electronic systems. There is also an interest in possible capability when applied to mobile platforms such as land vehicles, maritime vessels, and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) as opposed to only infrastructure fixed sites. This brass-board prototype must demonstrate a clear path forward to a full-scale concept demonstrator based on the selected sensor and signal processing technology. Data packages on all critical components will be submitted throughout the prototype development cycle and test results will be provided for regular review of progress. The use of actual hardware, RF signal processing software and empirical data collection is expected for this analysis. If necessary to perform the electronic system sensing, this Phase may also include a network of sensor nodes and associated communication system.

PHASE III DUAL USE APPLICATIONS: The performer will apply the knowledge gained during Phases I and II to build and demonstrate the full-scale functional final design that will include all system elements and represent a complete solution. The final design should be compact and ruggedized and the eBDI system should be capable of integration onto one or more Naval platforms (as specified by the Government). The device should be applicable for test range use and should be immune to both temporary EI and permanent damage from the HPRF incident pulse.

Data packages on all critical components and subcomponents will be submitted throughout the final development cycle and test results will be regularly submitted for review of progress. It is desirable for the performer to work closely with Office of Naval Research Code 352, the Naval Research Laboratory, the Naval Surface Warfare Center – Dahlgren Division, and other Navy field activities to maximize transition and field testing opportunities.
Working with the Navy field activities, the performer will test their prototype eBDI System to determine its effectiveness in an operationally relevant environment. The performer will support the Navy field activities for test and validation to certify and qualify the system for Navy and Marine Corps use and will develop manufacturing plans and capabilities.

If HPM/HPRF Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) attacks become prevalent, there will be considerable demand for such advanced warning systems both for the Department of Defense, Domestic Law Enforcement as well as corporate entities such as data centers. As a specific example, the Department of Homeland Security could utilize an eBDI network to assist in detecting and determining the effects on vital infrastructure. Additionally, a well-designed system may benefit the existing Electromagnetic Interference/ Compatibility (EMI/EMC) community that seeks to understand and protect effects from co-located operating systems and manage unintended effects through protections and measurement characterizations.