Collection
Available Technology records
60 published · archived from dodtechmatch.com
The Journal Bearing Analysis Suite
ARMY RESEARCH LABORATORY
Background The Journal Bearing Analysis Suite is the first transient journal bearing code to implement the Jacobsson-Floberg-Olsson (JFO) boundary conditions. It uses a mass conserving algorithm devised by Professor Emeritus Harold Elrod, Columbia University, and was written by David E. Brewe of the U.S. Army at the NASA Lewis Research Center in 1983. Since then, new features and improvements have been built into the code by several contributors supported through Army and NASA funding via co-operative agreements with the University of Toledo (Prof. Ted Keith, Jr. and Dr. D. Vijayaraghavan), National Research Council Programs (Dr. D. Vijayaraghavan). All this was conducted with the close consultation of Prof. H.G. Elrod and project management of D. E. Brewe. This version is written to perform a thermo-hydrodynamic analysis of fluid film Journal bearings using collocation across the film thickness at Lobatto points and using Legendre polynomials. The Technology Planetary gear systems are an efficient means of achieving high reduction ratios with minimum space and weight. They are used in helicopter, aerospace, automobile, and many industrial applications. High-speed planetary gear systems will have significant dynamic loading and high heat generation. Hence, they need jet lubrication and associated cooling systems. For units operating in critical applications that necessitate high reliability and long life, that have very large torque loading, and that have downtime costs that are significantly greater than the initial cost, hydrodynamic journal bearings are a must. Computational and analytical tools are needed for sufficiently accurate modeling to facilitate optimal design of these systems. Sufficient physics is needed in the model to facilitate parametric studies of design conditions that enable optimal designs.
Portable Biological Agent Detection The “PCR Rotary Thermalcycler Unit”
FirstLink
An established method for rapidly identifying a genetic fingerprint (the DNA) of biological materials in even trace samples is Polymerase Chain Reaction, or PCR. Yet, application of PCR in the field has been challenged by the cost and difficulty of currently transportable PCR equipment. The PCR Rotary Thermalcycler Unit is designed to be a simple-to-use, lightweight, portable device for rapidly detecting and identifying the presence of specific biological species while in the field. Its unique heating concept and design configuration is intended to enable convenient and affordable PCR for a wide range of field applications such as: Detecting diseases and agricultural pests Identifying dangerous biological agents Testing food and water for contamination Tracking geographically a species or biological agent Design Benefits: Portable and easy to operate On-the-scene analysis in 5-20 minutes Expandable for higher sample counts Self-contained platform (integral batteries and detectors) with intuitive display The U.S. Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine seeks licensees to commercialize a PCR Rotary Thermalcycler, reducing the design to practice. Further development is possible under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) for prototype development, testing, & adaptation of commercially available reagents. Additional information is available through FirstLink.
Immunoliposome Polymerase Chain Reaction (ILPCR) Assay
TechLink
A simple-to-make diagnostic immunoassay capable of sub-femtomolar sensitivity that is very robust against matrix contaminations. Background and Technology: The US Army has developed an ultrasensitive immunoassay capable of sub-femtomolar (10-15) limit of detection. ILPCR technology overcomes the limitations of traditional immuno-PCR by encapsulating the signal amplification DNA/reporter inside a liposome, and incorporating a receptor (e.g. biotin or gangliosides) as the detection reagent into the bilayer of the liposome. After immobilization of the target analyte by the specific capture molecule and co-binding of the detection reagent, the liposomes are ruptured to release the reporters, which are quantified by real-time PCR. Preparation of the ILPCR reagent is simple. Unlike traditional immuno-PCR, synthesis of an antibody/DNA conjugate is not needed. By encapsulating the reporter inside the liposome, the reporter is protected by the liposome from degradation by impurities, which substantially reduces the possibility of false-negative results, and enables the use of DNase I to all but eliminate DNA contamination and false-positives. ILPCR’s improved sensitivity is due in part to the high number of reporters per binding event and the low nonspecific binding of the reagents. The assay has shown 5 orders of magnitude in dynamic range. Benefits:Ultrasensitive: Demonstrated sub-attomolar (10-18) and sub-femtomolar (10-15) detection threshold capabilities under ideal and “real-world” conditions respectivelyBroad Dynamic Range: Five Orders of Magnitude Accurate: Protection of the reporter inside the liposome greatly reduces false-negatives; eliminates DNA contamination, hence substantially reduces false-positives Versatile: Reduced to practice in biotoxins (botulinum and cholera), oncology biomakers (CEA), and viral HIV detection systems; applicable to a multitude of other analytes of commercial interest Simple: Reagents are easy to manufacture, inexpensive, and have a long shelf-life Status and Opportunity: Available for license and commercialization:One issued US patent (7,582,430), one published US patent (2009/0176250), and various pending foreign filings (WO2005/067583) Peer-reviewed journal articles available; additional information under non-disclosure agreement Potential for R&D; collaboration with inventors Dr. Tim O'Leary & Dr. Jeff Mason
Rebreather Carbon Dioxide Scrubber Gauge
TechLink
A Simple and accurate way to measure the actual remaining life of a carbon dioxide scrubber in a rebreather unit. Background and Technology The US Navy and Experimental Dive Unit (NEDU) has developed and patented a novel method of determining the actual remaining endurance of a CO2 scrubber. The gauge takes advantage of the exothermic reaction of the CO2 absorbent. A few temperature sensors inside the absorbent generate data that is easily converted to a reliable, repeatable gauge reading. The readings are independent of water temperature, diver work load, depth and previous use. Benefits Robust: Generates accurate readings independent of water temperature, depth, previous use or diver workload Simple: No field calibration necessary; can be made entirely of analog equipment or readily integrated Extended Safe Dive Time: Measuring Actual scrubber function allows for more complete use of absorbent without compromising safety Versatile: Retrofits into existing systems in minutes Status and Opportunity Available for License and Commercialization: One issued US Patent (6618687) and various pending and issued foreign filings under PCT/US02/32541 Diver tested prototype built based on temperature and verification data from over 1,500 hours with air and HeO2(MK16) and over 1,000 hours O2(MK25) Public presentation available; additional available information under non-disclosure agreement Potential Research & Development collaboration with Dr. Dan Warkander of the Navy Experimental Dive Unit
Atomizing Nozzle/Fine Mist Nozzle
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
The Navy has developed and successfully tested a nozzle developed at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircrafat Division Patuxent River, MD and Lakehurst, NJ by Joseph Wolfe. The nozzle, shown in figure 1, uses air to push water through a restricted convergent region followed by an expanded divergent region of the nozzle. The rapid expansion of the water and gases in the divergent region causes the water to break up and be atomized into droplets of sizes on the order of 10 to 100 micrometers. A secondary patent describes a completely portable, relatively simple system that is self pressurized with carbon dioxide gas that is generated by a chemical reaction with a bicarbonate compound. Summary of Benefits Simple design; Nozzle can be fabricated using standard machining methods and using a variety of metals or composite/plastic materials; Larger, hand held nozzle systems have been successfully tested and demonstrated at the Pittsburgh Fire Academy by firefighters; Fires on a three foot diameter oil pan extinguished in 15 seconds or less; Atomized water droplets have forward momentum, unlike other misting units; Relatively large nozzle orifice does not clog or become obstructed from dirt or debris in the water; Since there is minimal back momentum and a smaller garden hose size is used, nozzle can be easily held in one hand while in operation - unlike conventional nozzles that require two hand operation and many times more than one firefighter to maintain control of the nozzle and hose figure 2; Minimal water usage of approximately four gallons/minute compared to over 150 gallons/minute for conventional nozzles, translating into minimal water damage; thus reducing repair costs and insurance claims. 2006 FLC National Meeting Award Winner
Nano-Engineered Additives for Active Coatings
ARMY RESEARCH LABORATORY - ABERDEEN
Researchers with the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) have developed and are patenting novel additives for coatings systems that spontaneously segregate to the surface of the coating. These macromolecular transports (MTs) can be coupled with traditional additives to control their distribution in a cured film, and the MTs are compatible with a wide range of military and commercial coating chemistries. This autonomous concentration at the surface of the film translates to reduced additive quantities required for desired surface properties (i.e., antimicrobial activity), as well as reduced impact on the bulk properties of the film. Potential applications include, but are not limited to, antifouling coatings for marine applications, pool coatings, coatings for hospitals and wood treatment. ARL has successfully produced a technology that will “float” anti-microbial compounds to the surface of a curing polymer matrix (Figure 2). Self-segregating materials address several issues: decreased additive requirements; minimize mass transport issues; minimize diffusion limitations; minimize impact on physical properties of base coating. Figure 4 shows the impact of MTs with antimicrobial characteristics when dispersed in a thermoplastic polyurethane matrix. The additives clearly reduced the appearance of plaques, and samples have demonstrated 99.9999 % killing efficiency with 1 wt % of additive without negative effects on the base coating. MTs have also been incorporated into various commercial off-the-shelf paints from local home improvement stores. The U.S. Army has developed an inexpensive additive that spontaneously segregates to the polymer/air interface of coating systems which can be chemically modified with desired properties (not solely biocidal) and is compatible with existing coating systems. Concentration of material at the air interface reduces overall additive requirements. By using the MT technology, 10-fold surface concentration enhancements have been observed. This saves money, is better for the environment, and minimizes negative effects on the base coating. While further applications are in development at the Army’s Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, the basic technology offers new ways to enhance the performance of commercial and military coatings. A patent application has been filed. These MTs have the ability to transport a myriad of additives to the air/polymer surface of a coating, allowing the formulation of systems with new performance characteristics and the potential for reduced costs and overall loading requirements.
Portable Modular Air Conditioning System
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
Portable Modular Air Conditioning System (PMAC) is a man-mounted, lightweight, battery-powered, desiccant-based personal microclimate conditioning system. The portable system is field serviceable and is comprised of a power supply, blower, air-conditioning, air-distribution, and air filtration modules. The power module activates the blower, moving air through the air conditioning and encapsulated garment, effectively extracting heat from the body of the wearer. Alternative configurations provide warmth instead of cooling.The PMAC system is a leap technology in the area of personal cooling systems. The modularity of the system allows add-on capabilities such as increased cooling power, greater capacity, air filtration for chemical-biological threat environments, and connections for electric power and /or air flow sources. Benefits include: Portability: Light weight, 4.8 lbs with battery (~3hr life). Small, 11”x4”x4”. Convenience: Easily mounts to existing Self Contained Breathing Apparatus. Field serviceable. Versatility: Integrates with new or existing forced air clothing systems. Extracts heat for cooling in hot environments; can input heat for warmth in cold environments. The PMACS is most attractive for use in cooling personnel that utilize protective suits in mobile situations and/or work in hot environments. This includes: Military Personnel; Tank Operators; Helicopter Pilots; Desert Combat Soldiers; Firefighters; Hazmat responders; Racecar Drivers; Manufacturing/Industrial workers; and Mascot costume characters.
Extreme Temperature, High Load, Active Magnetic Bearings for Turbomachinery and ISG Applications
ARMY RESEARCH LABORATORY - ABERDEEN
Technology Overview The active magnetic bearing is a rotor support that uses magnetic force to hold the rotor in place as opposed to the forces of a rolling element or air foil bearing. Like other bearing types, the magnetic bearing can be characterized in terms of stiffness, damping, and load capacity, thus the forces that apply these properties are somewhat analogous for each bearing. As shown in figure 1, a magnetic bearing consists of multiple electromagnetic coils attached to a ferromagnetic stator. The coils are arranged such that opposite poles are adjacent, maximizing magnetic flux through the rotor. A ferromagnetic, laminated rotor stack is attached to the shaft to provide the flux path and attractive magnetic forces while minimizing eddy current formation. Position sensors are fixed a certain distance from the shaft, on the order of thousandths of an inch. The voltage output from the position sensors and subsequent signal conditioning relays position information to the microprocessor controller, which uses this information to produce a command signal. The command signal is transferred to a proportional current through power amplifiers and output to the magnetic coils, providing an attractive magnetic force to the rotor. Typically, control algorithms treat the rotor support system as a mass/spring/damper interaction on two axes, usually vertical and horizontal. The controller will output signals proportional to the shaft’s displacement from center. Advantages and Limitations Using a magnetic bearing for turbine engine applications results in three major technological advantages: oil-free operation with no air requirements, operation in extreme temperature environments, and active control. Proceeding from these advantages is a laundry list of desirable improvements to the turbine engine. They include reduced weight; no bearing contact, no wear, and less maintenance; operation in high altitudes; the subtraction of an oil, lube, and cooling system; bearing placement in the engine’s hot sector; shorter, thicker and highly damped shafts; blade tip clearance control and stall suppression; fault tolerance; control of shaft imbalance; and dynamic stiffness and damping. The magnetic bearing also enables integral starter-generator (ISG) technology that could replace the bulk, complexity, and cooling/lubrication needs of a separate shaft/gearbox driven generator.
Powerful, User-Friendly Method for Automated Signal Detection
INFORMATION DIRECTORATE
Adjustable Bandwidth Concept (ABC) allows for automation of signal detection by reducing the number of human interventions and also provides new ways of looking at the data. ABC is applicable to any data that can be expressed in a time-frequency spectrogram. This efficient technique is especially suitable to detect burst or aperiodic signals. ABC uses a series of linear filters to decompose the input (typically log-scale) spectrogram into multi-views. This algorithm combines both time and frequency domain averaging. Unlike conventional techniques, wide-band signals are not “averaged away” over time; narrow-band signals are not “averaged away” over frequency. Benefits: Powerful. Allows detection of signals that would normally be missed by traditional methods. User friendly and robust. Low complexity, computationally stable by being robust to small system parameter changes, and easy to use by an operator. Easy to implement. Key components of ABC are time-frequency representations and log-amplitude compression; these are well established techniques commonly found in signal processing systems. ABC is an extra computation step that can be easily accomplished in software languages such as Java or C++ or in hardware via FPGA or ASIC and brings significant payback. Application examples: Channel activity assessment – FCC compliance and EMI studies; Feature detection – signal parameter estimation (SNR and bandwidth).
Retinal Implant Device
NAVAL RESEARCH LABORATORY
The NRL patents cover manufacturing methods of components as well as an implant test device and the final permanent retinal implant. The test device includes a thin wafer of glass using nanochannel glass electrode arrays with each channel filled with an electrical conducting microwire. One surface of the glass is ground to fit the inside curvature of the retina. The nanochannel glass array is hybridized to a silicon multiplexer with the image being serially input into the multiplexer via a very narrow, flexible micro-cable from an external camera. This test device creates a neural-electronic interface between a high-resolution array of 3,200 independent electrodes and the retinal surface. The permanent retinal implant device would not have the micro-cable, but instead, the image would be generated by light entering the lens of the eye. Through a photon-to-electron conversion using a silicon photodiode, the device would collect the charge in storage capacitors, stimulate the neural tissue with bi-phasic pulses and reset the storage capacitors to repeat the process. The Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) seeks to commercialize through patent licensing a miniaturized, high-resolution human retinal stimulator device to provide visual images to the brain. This retinal implant device may restore vision to patients with retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration. Benefits: May restore vision to patients with retinitis pigmentosa and age-related macular degeneration, affecting 30 million people in the developing world The high resolution image with 3,200 independent electrodes interfacing with neural tissue is unprecedented
Body Cooling Garment
NATICK SOLDIER SYSTEMS CENTER
The technology comprises both the cooling garments and the method for adhering tubing to the fabric substrate. The preferred method employs adhesive dots to fasten the tubing to the fabric, forming a single component. This component is fused to a second layer of fabric, creating a tricomponent construction, with the tubing “sandwiched” in the center of two breathable layers. This method eliminates the need for stitching to hold the tubing in place. Sewn tubing has the problem of potential pinhole puncturing of the tubing, skin irritation from the threads themselves, lengthy manufacturing time, and needleholes that allow unwanted chemicals to penetrate the fabric. This technology is also superior to brushed or rolled on adhesives which destroys porosity. Variations can be made for a chemical suit. Foot cooling is covered in a patent application. Five US patents have issued and a sixth patent application has been filed. The US Army Natick Soldier Center (NSC) seeks to commercialize through patent licensing a body cooling garment which utilizes fluid-carrying tubes and provides both air and vapor permeability to make a flexible, comfortable garment. This garment is breathable and launderable, and will maintain comfortable core body temperature in hot conditions, whether indoors or outside. The vest can be connected to a faucet or cooling unit and unhooked briefly for mobility, or be more permanently tethered.
“X-Cutter™” - Low-Cost, No-Fragment Explosive Access Tool
NAVSEA INDIAN HEAD
The X-Cutter is an EOD tool that can be fabricated and tailored onsite utilizing low cost materials for gaining entry into a variety of suspect metal containers. Current design allows for the creation of a 4 inch or 6 inch hole while producing minimal fragmentation and minimized risk of initiating the IED. The X-Cutter™ can be assembled with the following: Setup guide printed on a flexible engraved magnetic sheet* Magnetic sheet tamper discs* Blasting Cap Detonator Holder* Ordinance tape Detasheet cutting guide or tool* Detasheet explosives Cutting Plate Squares* Since bomb squad technicians are regularly equipped with many of the items that are required to assemble an X-Cutter™, including the heavily regulated explosive charges, a relatively simple kit (*consisting of these items) can be assembled, sold, and shipped to EOD units without concern for Hazmat / Explosive shipping regulations. NSWC EOD Technology Division seeks firms interested in commercializing the technology for EOD bomb squad technicians. Additionally, the lab will consider partnering to jointly enhance the solution for mutual benefit. Product is covered by US Patents 6,817,297, 6,865,990 & 6,966,263. More information is available upon request. NSWC EOD Technology Division is conducting further developments associated with X-Cutter™ and EOD technologies which could be licensed and added to the proposed kit to improve a product offering.
Convertible Patient Isolation Pod
ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH AND MATERIEL COMMAND
The Convertible Patient Isolation Pod protects individual patients in a flexible, transparent, air-impermeable enclosure suited for transporting a patient out of a contaminated environment. It allows the caregivers safe access to stabilize critical patients without having to ‘decon’ them. Glove-box access features are designed to enable medical interventions. If needed, the outside of the unit can be decontaminated much faster than the patient. An acceptable breathable air environment within the pod is achieved with an air intake at the head end of the pod and an air exhaust and filter at the foot end. A portable air blower with an air filter circulates air in and out of the pod to maintain the acceptable environment. The unidirectional air flow within the pod limits further contamination. The pod can include tear-resistant gloves and handles to facilitate patient manipulation without the need for ancillary equipment. The easily deployed Convertible Patient Isolation Pod is most attractive for use in rescue and lifesaving operations involving a wide range of transport such as aircraft, land vehicles, hospital gurneys, etc USAMRC seeks firms interested in applying the technology for their particular needs. Licenses for commercial production and sale are available. This technology was patented by AMRMC under US Patent #6,418,932. Additional information is available upon request.
Novel Software for Summarizing Text
TechLink
KODA is a patent pending method developed by the NSA for text summarization in a manner that relies solely on the text itself and does not rely on any information that is external to the text. KODA identifies at least one set of textual units in the text that best summarizes the text, where a textual unit may be one or more words, ASCII characters, graphics (like musical notes), phrases, sentences, paragraphs, etc. KODA does not require the use of a dictionary or a collection of exemplary text for a particular topic. KODA was expressly designed to overcome dependencies on summarization training data sets that cause errors due to formatting, linguistics, language, definition and introductory sentences or phrases. Key Advantages Enhanced performance on heterogeneous textual information like scientific data andnon-structured documents Results are not influenced by “first sentence” of article dependency Results are independent of language and linguistic patterns Does not utilize training data, dictionaries or other look-up references Can be easily integrated and adapted into a variety of systems and platforms Allows large data throughput on standard desktop computer equipment KODA has been successfully tested on a variety of document types and compared with a number of summarization methods. KODA is patent pending and is available for licensing from the National Security Agency. The software can be easily demonstrated. Collaborative R&D; with the NSA is a possibility. The US National Security Agency seeks industry partners to license and commercialize a powerful text and data similarity software measure known as KODA. KODA has outstanding potential for applications such as text summarization, outline creation, data comparison, and query based data content searches for search engines, knowledge management and data mining, and analysis.
Non-corrosive Formulation and Kit to Remove and Prevent Mildew/Fungal Growth
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
In many geographic areas and in a variety of applications, the unwanted growth of mold and mildew is a serious problem. Growth of mildew on military aircraft frames has been found to cause corrosion and operational damage, in addition to creating potential health hazards to flight crews and maintenance personnel. Traditional products for addressing fungal growth on metal surfaces are corrosive themselves, as well as environmentally hazardous. These problems prompted a need for an extremely effective and non-corrosive solution to addressing fungal growth in the U.S. Military. A novel composition to address mildew problems was developed by National Air Depot Cherry Point personnel and optimized at NAVAIR in Patuxent River, Maryland. The solution, which provides a non-corrosive and non-toxic remedy to eliminating mildew and mold, has been successfully tested on a number of different surfaces including aluminum alloys, steel, painted surfaces, plastic, and polyimide wire insulation. An engineering report describing the protocol and data results is available. This formulation is expected to perform equally well on other corrosion-sensitive surfaces. Summary of benefits: Cost effective formulation from commercially available chemicals Extremely effective in removal and prevention of mold and mildew Non-corrosive to cleaning surfaces, particularly metals Environmentally friendly The US Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAVAIR) seeks licensees to commercialize a unique formulation and kit to address mildew and fungal growth without causing corrosive damage to the cleaning surface. Further development is possible under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). Additional details, IP, and US NAVAIR contacts are available through TechLink.
Easy-to-Use Classifier for Complex Problems
NAVSEA NEWPORT
The BDRA is a portfolio of algorithms developed for automated, real-time prediction. The technology not only reduces large amounts of data and information to an easily handled set to support decision-making, but also points out the critical information that should be used. The technology’s use of feature selection and AI techniques allows for continuously improved classification performance. Designed for complex problems, BDRA is particularly robust in cases where the patterns in the data are not readily evident or when the number of features in the data set needs to be reduced. BDRA approaches classification and dimension reduction in a fundamentally different theoretical manner than other classification and neural network techniques. Key Advantages compared to other classification methods such as statistical methods and neural networks include: Ease of use. BDRA can be run and interpreted by individuals with very little statistical background. High performance. The technology outperforms traditional classification and artificial neural net methods in certain types of complex problems with high dimensionality, or in situations where there is no known built-in structure or functional form to data. Fast. BDRA guides users to optimal decisions by helping determine the most relevant factors. Reduces risk in high risk decisions. The BDRA employs fundamentally different mathematical techniques than either neural networks or linear classification techniques. Thus while the BDRA can compete with the best methods of classification, perhaps one of its main advantages is its ability to be used in conjunction with other methods for decision support and cross validation. This is particularly important in high risk decisions. Applications BDRA was originally developed at NUWC for classification of sonar data; it has outstanding utility when there is a need to identify quickly inherent patterns embedded in large amounts of data such as insurance scoring, fraud detection, customer profiling for direct marketing, medical diagnosis, and financial market modeling.
Advanced Point-of-Care System for Integrated Healthcare Enterprise Management
ARMY MEDICAL RESEARCH AND MATERIEL COMMAND
The Battlefield Medical Information System—Tactical (BMIST) was developed by the US Army’s Telemedicine & Advanced Technology Research Center. BMIST was initially developed for Special Forces medics and other first responders. BMIST provides a point-of-care handheld assistant that enables healthcare providers to record, store, retrieve, and transmit the elements of clinical encounters in an operational setting. Over 1000 units have been deployed within the US government including the US Special Operations Command and the White House Medical Unit. Key Advantages • Allows rapid, accurate, data entry of clinical encounters by first responders, medics and doctors • Provides comprehensive point-of-care reference materials and diagnostic and treatment aids • Development could allow BMIST to incorporate advanced healthcare management applications including automated prescription drug management and automated patient billing • BMIST directly interfaces with handheld PC based medical instruments like a pulse oximeter, for integrated patient diagnosis, monitoring, and record keeping • BMIST operates on commercially available computer and communication hardware like Pocket PCs with Wi-Fi wireless connectivity BMIST is a fully functional software program for use with Pocket PCs. The invention is protected by a patent application. The Army will convey as part of a patent license agreement, commercial rights to the invention, as well as the source code. Collaborative research and development is a possibility. The US Army seeks industry partners to license and commercialize an advanced point-of-care system optimized for integration within an overall enterprise management system for the healthcare market.
Tent Stake Driver/Puller
FirstLink
The US Air Force has developed and seeks to commercialize a user-friendly, time-saving, tent stake driver/puller that is especially suitable for the safer insertion and removal of double-headed stakes commonly used with medium sized tent. The new design has proven to be a time saver and safer (the two most important factors for military users when purchasing tents). The double-headed tent stake driver/puller is comprised of a driving tool and a coupler mounted on the distal end of the driving tool. The coupler has an elongated body with an open end, and a hollow core sized to receive the head of the stake. The coupler includes a retractable keeper. The keeper retains the stake when inserted into the coupler, and provides a hardened surface for imparting the extraction force for pulling a stake from the ground. Conversely, the closed end of the coupler provides a surface for imparting the driving force when inserting the stake into the ground. Although primarily designed for use with medium sized tent stakes, the invention could be easily sized for recreational or large tent stakes.
Peltier-Effect Water Distiller
NAVSEA PANAMA CITY
The US Naval Surface Warfare Center in Panama City, Florida has developed a patented technology for distilling water. The unique process requires the heating of only a small portion of the water at a given time and takes advantage of recycling heat energy using a thermo-electric device. As a result, the design greatly reduces energy requirements, noise, residue build-up, maintenance, and increases the longevity of the unit. Water distillation removes a very broad range of contaminants and provides an extremely consistent method of water treatment for drinking, cooking, home appliance and various other uses. Currently available water distillers generate significant waste heat because the entire volume of water is heated throughout the distillation process. The existing process typically bakes a considerable amount of precipitate on the bottom of the tank. The precipitate is difficult to remove, requires the use of harsh cleaners, and makes it desirable to use expensive stainless steel in the device’s tank. NSWC’s design enables the use of less costly materials and eliminates moving parts. Benefits Energy Efficiency: Uses considerably less energy than existing methods for the same throughput Low Maintenance: Unique process results in less residue, reducing cleaning requirements Cost Effective: Due to the uniquely efficient process, stainless steel components are not required Quiet, Cost Effective, Long Life: No moving parts (fans, for example) to break down or make noise, and the unit can be fabricated from less expensive materials than current designs US Patent #6,893,540 is available for license. Further joint development with the US Navy is possible under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). Additional details of the technology, an overview of the licensing process, and an interview with the inventors, are available through TechLink.
Trivalent Chromium Pre/Post Treatment Corrosion-Resistant Coatings (TCP)
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
The Technology & Background: In order to improve the corrosion resistance and bonding of paints to aluminum alloys, anodized aluminum and sacrificial coatings, a surface treatment is required. A class of chemicals called conversion coatings is used for this purpose. For more than 50 years the standard corrosion resistance surface coatings for aluminum or zinc-coated alloys in both military and industrial applications has been hexavalent chromium, which is a highly toxic carcinogen. After several years of research and development at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, MD a new line of environmentally benign and highly effective coatings for application on aluminum and zinc-coated alloys was developed named Trivalent Chromium Pre/Post Treatment Corrosion-Resistant Coatings (TCP). Technology Solution: TCP was invented as a more environmental benign coating than hexavalent chromium without sacrificing corrosion resistance or other performance characteristics. A family of four United States Patents for these corrosion resistance coatings were issued and are now available for licensing. Summary of Benefits: There are many benefits to TCP. They are the only non-hexavalent chromium conversion coatings that will fully meet all military specifications for pre/post treatment of aluminum. Numerous inside and outside laboratory and field test show that TCP is the best all-around alternative to chromate coatings available at this time. Additionally, its improved electrical conductivity makes it ideal for applications in the electronics and telecommunications industries. A few of the benefits include: Can be applied at room temperature by immersion, spray or wipe; Contact/dwell time two (2) - ten (10) minutes; No post treatment/cures required; Easy to mix and handle; Provides good surface adhesion; Meets EPA and OSH Requirements; Cheaper to make than chromate conversion coatings. Summary of Benefits: The four TCP patents are environmentally benign and highly effective corrosion resistant coatings recently developed by the U.S. Navy are available for licensing and can be utilized in the following areas: Boats; Swimming pools; Window frames; Wheels; Automobiles; Aircraft; Bicycles; Fasteners; Military vehicles 2006 FLC National Meeting Award Winner
NAVCLEAN
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
NAWCAD has developed and successfully tested a formulation of three components for use in removing and inhibiting mildew and fungus growth on military aircraft structures. This patented kit (shown in Figure 1) and formulation has passed evaluation requirements on selected tests in regard to MIL-PRF-85570D and ADS-61A-PRF-2002 specifications. The formula that was developed, not only very effectively cleans and removes the mildew and fungus, but also inhibits future growth and passivates metal surfaces to help prevent corrosion. The kit consists of three components which are pre-measured and sealed in three plastic containers which are stacked and sealed in a plastic tube. The individual components and the final mixture are non toxic with no strong unpleasant odor. It is easy to mix and apply. For maximum effectiveness, the solution can be used up to 24 hours from when the solution was made. The solution, which provides a non-corrosive and non-toxic remedy to eliminating mildew and mold, has been successfully tested on a number of different surfaces including aluminum alloys, steel, painted surfaces, plastic, and polyimide wire insulation. Summary of Benefits Cost effective formulation from commercially available chemicals; Extremely effective in removal and prevention of mold and mildew; Non-corrosive to cleaning surfaces, particularly metals; Environmentally friendly; Unlike bleach, the most commonly used mold cleaner, Navclean is not caustic and has no odor.
NAVGUARD
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
Navguard was developed to fulfill the need of the Navy for a longer lasting corrosion prevention film on Navy aircraft metal surfaces, while at the same time inhibiting the growth of mildew on the CPC film. The compounds used for this CPC mildew inhibiting formulation are readily available, environmentally benign and are cost effective. Standard industrial techniques and chemical processing methods can be utilized in fabricating and packaging this CPC product in large quantities. The effectiveness of the mildew inhibitor additives into Navguard and selected products from MIL-C-81309 and MIL-C-85054 specifications was performed at the Naval Research Laboratory at Stennis Space Center and showed good results on all tested products. In addition to preventing mold growth, the CPC film was found to last longer than currently used CPC systems, which would translate to fewer CPC treatments on aircraft, reducing down time and maintenance costs and extending the life cycle of aircrafts. Navguard was developed in accordance with MIL-PRF-81309 (Corrosion Preventive Compounds, Water Displacing, Ultra-Thin Film) and exceeds those specification requirements. For example, Navguard lasted three times longer than the 14-day neutral salt fog (ASTM B 117) requirements for aluminum panels. In side-by-side tests with other CPC products, Navguard products outperformed commercially available competitors by a factor of three on aluminum and steel. This formulation is expected to perform equally well on other corrosion-sensitive surfaces. It has been tested successfully on aluminum, magnesium, and ferrous alloy surfaces. Summary of Benefits Cost effective formulation from commercially available chemicals; Foggable by using aerosolizing nozzle; Low VOC content and environmentally friendly composition; Compatible with metal and non-metal components; A water displacing agent; Extremely effective corrosion inhibitor for aluminum, magnesium and steel alloy surfaces; Previously treated surfaces require no removal process; Durable coating that provides long-term protection on multiple metal surfaces.
Radially Compressive Rope Assembly
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
To address the need for a better fast rope, the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division at Patuxent River, Maryland developed the Radially Compressive Rope Assembly, which has the potential of revolutionizing rope technology that is used for the descent of personnel from helicopters and other vehicles or structures. For conventional ropes, the level of friction generated between a person and the rope is the basis for controlling rate of descent or providing the ability to climb the rope. For the Radially Compressible Rope Assembly, a tighter grip does not translate into the creation of larger amounts of friction, but rather a greater indent in the rope, providing a greater hand holding block. Prototype compressive ropes have been constructed and tested at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, Maryland. Modifications and improvements to this original design are currently in process. Though the compressive rope assembly is moderately more expensive than existing fast ropes, the greatly increased amount of control and more safe operation, will justify its higher cost. The development of various types of rope attachments, fasteners and accessories that take advantage of the compressibility feature, could expand market use into other rope market areas such as tow ropes, safety harnesses and other types of lowering systems. Summary of Benefits Instead of varying the grip to modulate the amount of friction for controlling descent rate of a person, varying grip modulates the amount of compression or indent of the rope. This translates into: Lower injury rates from friction burns; Better control of the speed of descent by a person; Provide a rope system that permits extremely rapid engagement, descent, and disengagement of the user, allowing multiple users to descend in a relatively short period of time; Provide a more sure grip even in wet, snow, sea, oily or other adverse conditions, and; Provide a method to modify the rope assembly’s weight to ccommodate the various wind conditions at rope deployment locations - thereby enabling the rope to hang vertically without motion - thus providing additional safety to roping operations.
Marine Vessel Traffic System (SureTrak)
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
This invention is an improved radar harbor surveillance sensors, computer display system to monitor marine harbor traffic, provide advisories to vessels in areas elected by the system operators, and provide the operators of the system with an early warning of unacceptable traffic conflicts in the confined waterways of the harbor. Each system consists of a number of remote sites providing radar, camera video, and audio communicated to a central Vessel Traffic Center (VTC). VTC data integration and display provides the ability to identify, monitor, and advice of potentially dangerous vessel traffic conditions and fuse multi-radars on a single display. Although the primary purpose of SureTrak is to insure safe passage of vessels throughout waterways, the system also provides the ability to document traffic conditions and incidents. The object of this invention is to monitor vessel traffic and provide advisories to vessels in transit or anchorage in key waterways. To accomplish this task, the SureTrak system is capable of acquiring data from one in the initial fielded system to 18 remote sites in the form of radar track data, digitized radar image data, camera video, and audio. Data is processed and displayed in a form that provides for early recognition of potentially dangerous situations and communication of the impending condition of vessels of concern. This feature is intended to provide the capability to allow advised vessels to implement corrective actions in a timely manner. Each system functions 24 hours a day, seven days a week with a system availability of 99.9%. It is a further object of this invention to provide and aid waterway authorities in the conduct of other mission roles including search and rescue, law enforcement, pollution control, and marine safety. Through data collection, the SureTrak system facilitates waterway authorities command and control capabilities to detect events and coordinated responses.
Hybrid Lidar-Radar for Medical Diagnostics
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
The Technology & Background: The noninvasive and early detection of biological tissue abnormalities with submillimeter dimensions, such as cancerous tumors, is an important challenge and constant improvements are being sought. The well-established X-ray and ultrasound techniques lack the resolution to detect such small objects some of which may be cancerous tumors. In addition, the risk of tissue ionization that may damage healthy tissues prevents the use of X-rays for routine examination. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has submillimeter resolution, but the cost of this technique is still high for general use. The need for a safe, inexpensive, and efficient method for the early detection of tissue imperfections, such as cancerous tumors, has led to the investigation of optical imaging techniques. After several years of research and development at the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Patuxent River, MD a new hybrid lidar-radar system was developed and patented. Technology Solution: A hybrid lidar-radar system for detecting the presence of objects, such as cancerous tumors, within tissues by detecting reflected signals from the tissue and discriminating the information related to the cancerous tumor from the undesirable backscattering of light created by the tissue itself. The hybrid lidar-radar system utilizes continuous wave light that is preferably modulated at frequencies up to 60 GHz. The present invention filters the return signals from the tissue at a subcarrier modulation frequency so as to reject erroneous information contained in scattered lights, while at the same time retaining the coherent, unscattered and modulated light information so as to provide for an accuracy detection of tumors within tissues. Summary of Benefits: Safe; noninvasive; allows for early detection of biological tissue abnormalities; higher resolution; detects smaller objects; prevents damage to healthy tissues; inexpensive.
Boat Capture System
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, SAN DIEGO
Boat Capture System is a complete solution for loading a boat onto a trailer under substantial power in calm or rough water. SSC San Diego’s boat capture system is a successfully field-tested technology, used by the Navy SEALs that alleviates the constraints of current boat-loading processes. Utilizing guide posts, an expandable and retractable harness, and an automatic latch and release system, this technology makes loading a boat onto a trailer a hassle-free, automated process. The guideposts guide the boat onto the trailer, while an elastic harness grabs the automatic latch system and stops the boat, even under substantial power in rough water, firmly landing and securing the boat to the trailer. All that remains is to attach the winch lanyard, which may be used to further secure the vessel. Benefits: Safer loading and unloading due to greater control throughout the process Faster loading and unloading due to automated processes, reducing the need for extra “hands” Enhanced loading ability to allow the boater to perform in any sea/lake condition Simple, cost-effective trailer modification Can be modified to use preexisting bow eye hole, avoiding boat modifications Applicable to many different boat types and sizes DoD 5000 Series Technical Readiness Level 9: Actual system "fligh-proven" thorugh successful mission operations
Diazoluminomelanin (DALM)
HUMAN EFFECTIVENESS DIRECTORATE
Diazoluminomelanin (DALM) is a spiral linear polymer compound which, when synthesized within bacteria, sensitize them to destruction by microwave energy. It is also a reporter molecule that luminesces when oxidized and heated by conventional means or radio frequency energy. The genes for its production have been isolated and cloned, and are being engineered to respond to the presence of various toxic chemicals. DALM can be used in place of an inorganic semiconductor as a label for aptamer binding. It has been demonstrated to work for detection and identification of biological target agents. DALM can be detected by the following methods: (1) Chemiluminescence (when oxidized, it produces its own light), (2) Fluorescence (using an excitation light to get it to glow at a different wavelength, color), (3) Electroluminescence (passing electricity through it or exciting it with microwave energy; it will light up and even re-emit a different frequency radio or electromagnetic pulse). When DALM is connected to a target with a specific aptamer and is excited sufficiently by the forms of energy mentioned above, it “kills” the target or destroys it by mediating oxidations (comparable to a slow “burn”) or sudden, very rapid bursts of energy transfer (cavitations, like micro-explosions). This method can enhance or replace the cold-plasma kill method by providing a means to use pulsed microwaves at a distance to destroy an agent labeled with DALM/aptamer. The feasibility of such an approach has been demonstrated by the Air Force Research Laboratory and published in Kiel et al, IEEE Transactions on Plasma Science, volume 30, No. 4, 4 August 2002, 1482-1488 and under two SBIR contracts. More importantly, without DALM, it is not practicable to reach energies capable of killing the biological agents; this has been confirmed by other work sponsored by the Army Research Laboratory. The DALM produced by bacteria and other cells is also transferable to plastic surfaces, leading to passive sensors being developed from DALM-coated, microwave-sensitive film. The DALM coatings may be laser activated and emissions read from a distance. By associating the fluorescent polymer with various specific binding and sensing agents, changes in fluorescence can indicate the presence of certain chemical or physical agents. This bundle of patents provides all necessary steps required from development to manufacturing.
CORBA Universal Client and Consumer Tool
NAVSEA NEWPORT
UCC is a patent pending software application developed by the Naval Undersea Warfare Center for use in integration of combat systems for all classes of submarines. The UCC allows for the verification of server and producer interactions as well as inspection of the data being provided. The UCC is composed of two main components, the CORBA Control and the GUI Control Display. The UCC CORBA Control is the engine which makes the actual connections to the CORBA Servers and Producers (Event Channels) in the system. It manages those connections and keeps statistics and information on those connections for the user. The UCC Display provides a GUI for the control and status displays, and the data displays. The UCC CORBA Control and UCC Display can run on the same machines or different machines. Key Advantages Interactive visual CORBA interface Low level verification, debugging, and server/producer status logging for system integration and interface development Provides developers with Unit Test Client to reduce software test time and development Key Features Visual display of all CORBA methods and data Text recording for all methods and data for off-line viewing Drag and Drop of method parameters and return values The US Navy seeks industrial partners to commercialize a visualization tool that allows the user to interact with and obtain any data from a CORBA Server or CORBA Supplier/Event Channel . The Universal Client and Consumer (UCC) tool allows a user to visually display and interact with CORBA compliant applications. The UCC tool is currently being used by the United State Navy. UCC is patent pending and is available for licensing from the Naval Undersea Warfare Center. The software can be easily demonstrated. Collaborative R&D; with the Navy is a possibility.
Novel Blood Storage Technologies
TechLink
Technology: The Naval Research Laboratory has patented and developed a number of inventions that enable freeze-drying and rehydration of red blood cells and platelets. The suite also includes a synthetic red blood cell technology. These technologies enable long term storage and lightweight transport of critical blood products. Background: The US military is faced with collecting, storing, and transporting blood products under refrigeration the world over. Managing viable blood products in this manner is a significant logistical and economic challenge, even for one of the world’s largest enterprises. Under development at the Naval Research Laboratory are alternative technologies for lyophilizing —or freeze-drying— blood products such as red blood cells and platelets, for transport and long term storage. Potential fields of use include wound care, transfusions, therapeutics, and calibration/quality control of instrumentation. Benefits: • Lightweight, stable, longer term storage of red blood cells and platelets • Smaller volume and footprint for shipping • Requires no refrigeration Opportunity: Available for license and development are US patents: 5,242,792; 5,690,963; 5,736,313; 6,033,708; 6,358,678; and 6,436,705. Additional details of the technology, an overview of the licensing process, and an interview with the inventors, are available through TechLink.
Collapsible Star Barrier
SENSORS DIRECTORATE
These devices were designed as a channeling device intended to replace concertina wire and be more effective against light cars and trucks than the fixed, anti-tank star barriers used at entry points to most military installations. Three orthogonal beams, each 2 feet in length are equipped with spikes. The devices can fold into a compact uniform position, placing all three beams parallel to each other. Their light weight and compact storage makes them ideal for traveling units setting up mobile checkpoints. Their intended use would consist of at least nine collapsible star barriers connected as sets of three placed in a chicane or ‘S’ formation. These devices are more formidable than cones; easier to handle and quicker to set up than concertina wire; and have the potential to significantly damage and halt vehicles. AFRL is interested in Cooperative Research and Development opportunities to demonstrate a possible manufacturing capability for military and civilian use.
Bumper Thumper Pop-up Sign
SENSORS DIRECTORATE
This device serves to communicate directions as well as ‘grab’ the attention of drivers approaching checkpoints. Its dimensions are approximately: 42in. x 27in., for the frame; and 36in. x 24in., for the attached sign. This hybrid sign/speed bump, made from Lexan and other high impact materials, causes no damage to the vehicle on impact. Instead it alerts the driver via a bump (caused by driving over the device) and a loud noise (caused by the impacting sign). The intended use of this device is to communicate to the attentive driver that they should slow to a specific speed and change lanes. To the inattentive driver, this device will be certain to bring their focus to their surroundings. Spring loaded hinges return the sign to the upright position after the vehicle has driven past. AFRL is interested in Cooperative Research and Development opportunities to demonstrate a possible manufacturing capability for military and civilian use.
Collapsible Signs
SENSORS DIRECTORATE
These devices are intended to provide standardization and positive checkpoint identification in addition to communicating checkpoint instructions to approaching drivers. These hinged octagonal signs are reflective for night-time operations. They have water-marks and holograms for anti-tamper and authentication purposes. Highly visible logos serve to positively identify the check-point as US/Coalition. In the deployed position, the octagons measure 30in. x 30in. They collapse to 30in. x 15in. rectangles for easy storage. They are equipped with a locking mechanism and support stand built into the back. AFRL is interested in Cooperative Research and Development opportunities to demonstrate a possible manufacturing capability for military and civilian use.
Teledentistry Consult Management System
TechLink
The US Army seeks to commercialize through patent licensing a web-based system for electronically storing and disseminating dental records and images between generalists and specialists for the purpose of rendering a diagnosis or determining a treatment plan. The invention reduces the need for patients to travel to specialists, increases the quality of care, and provides a means of electronically documenting dental consultations. The Technology: The Walter Reed Army Institute for Research has developed a web-based communication technology that carries information and provides a series of user interfaces or templates for collecting and disseminating data relating to a patient or a patient’s condition. The system includes a storage capability that enables the data to be accessed or amended at any time. The system is used for the creation and transfer of dental consult records (including images), diagnosis and treatment records, and communication between referring provider and specialist. A series of prompts and drop-down menus ensures that the appropriate data is input by the referring and consulting dentists. An image manipulation routine allows the consulting dentist to zoom in and out, invert, rotate, flip and change the contrast and brightness of images. The technology has been reduced to practice by the Army. Background and Opportunity: The US Army has a need to provide acute dental care to soldiers in the field while minimizing the use of medical evacuation. The teledentistry consult system allows for expert consultation to theater-based dentists and soldiers, which increases their access to quality care and reduces the cost associated with medical evacuation. A patent filed by the Army (published patent No. 20030078806) and the software code are available for commercial license. Benefits: • Increases patient access to specialists • Reduces cost of dental health care • Creates electronic records of consultations Contacts: • Kurt Rued, [phone removed], [email removed] • Dan Swanson, [phone removed], [email removed]
Detecting Stress Biomarkers in Saliva by Fluorescence
NAVAL MEDICAL RESEARCH CENTER
The US Navy seeks to commercialize through patent licensing a method for measuring stress biomarkers such as cortisol in saliva by fluorescence polarization (FP). To complement this method, the Navy is developing a hand-held fluorescence polarimeter and related rapid tests. The Technology: The Naval Institute for Dental and Biomedical Research (NIDBR) has developed a method for estimating the concentration of stress biomarkers such as cortisol, in saliva. This method can utilize any of several fluorescence techniques. The current test equipment uses two steps that take only 15 seconds each: (1) scanning a saliva sample for background chemistry and (2) adding a fluorescent tracer specific for the substance of interest and rescanning. The computer software built into the FP device subtracts the background chemistry and calculates the concentration of the stress biomarkers giving real-time results. A time stamp is planned, so aberrant diurnal rhymicity of biomarkers can be detected. The detection limit of the present test is twenty picograms per 1/50 milliliter of saliva, easily obtained from a saliva-absorbing pad. Background and Opportunity: Sailors, soldiers and airmen are subject to many activities that create stress and disrupt sleep, resulting in diminished physical and cognitive ability. This can be detrimental both for job effectiveness and survival. Although civilian stress and sleeplessness may be associated with different activities, such as long distance trucking or shift work, the results on performance are much the same. Monitoring alertness is of keen interest to the military and to corporations with employees engaged in alertness-critical activities. Current methods include psychological and cognitive stress tests, which are time consuming and underutilized. Benefits: Requires no wash steps Highly correlated with ELISA (serum) tests, but much more rapid Ratiometric, theoretical accuracy not dependent on cortisol concentration in saliva Designed to function with off-the-shelf reagents, disposables Machine is designed for ease-of-use by non-scientific staff with a color-coded readout Contacts: Laurel Halfpap, [phone removed], [email removed] Dan Swanson, [phone removed], [email removed]
Fixture that Can Stretch & Twist Materials in Multiple Dimensions Simultaneously
NAVSEA NEWPORT
Traditionally, the tensile and shear properties of materials are evaluated separately using uniaxial test machines. In practice, most materials are subjected to forces imposed simultaneously in multiple directions resulting in coupled responses that are quite different from the uncoupled behaviors observed from uniaxial tests. The current innovation was developed to permit the evaluation of both strength and stiffness properties of materials such as weaves (shown in the left hand figure), braids, and knits subject to combined biaxial tension and shear loadings. For fabrics constructed of two principle fiber directions, the fixture utilizes two rhombus-shaped frames connected with rotary joints. The center and right hand figures illustrate this device with a plain-woven fabric under biaxial tension and shear modes respectively. When testing a specimen with biaxial loading, four ends of the specimen are rigidly secured by the clamping mechanism. The vertices of the apparatus are attached to the crossheads of a conventional uniaxial tensile/torsion machine. Upon a movement of the vertices of the linkages toward each other, their lateral links will extend outward thereby increasing the distance between the corresponding load transfer plates of each linkage. This movement applies planar tension to the specimen. Additionally, by rotating one linkage with respect to the other, the specimen will be subjected to in-plane shear. An extension to the base patent teaches a design where differential force ratios within and between axes are possible. The data obtained by fixtures incorporating this suite of innovations will allow higher-fidelity design and analysis of structures fabricated from a variety of materials including fabrics, composites, elastomers, metals, biological tissues and others. Benefits: Performance – provides coupled mechanical properties of materials much more akin to those observed in actual use User friendliness – compatible with both coventional tension/torsion and uniaxial test machines Versatility – this one fixture efficiently does the job that normally would require the inventory of many fixtures. Application Examples: Composite preforms – helps designers model fiber placement methods to avoid fiber wrinkling during resin transfer molding Tires – many of the benefits realized by the inflatable structure practitioners are transferrable to the tire community Biomedical – connective tissues on human joints are subjected to multi-axial forces resulting in complex stress states that can be better evaluated using this tool Inflatable structures – establishes effects of pressure and shear on mechanical properties of textiles and structural integrity of seams In addition to the two patents in the Documents section Patent Application 11/401,014 is also associated.
F-35 Composite Edge of Part Machining
National Center for Defense Manufacturing & Machining
Material: Composite Wing Skin Material Conventional Machining Method: Tool life lasting 9 liner feet at one-third the total material thickness Required a total of 24 tools per wing skin Excessive delamination of the composite material System Solution: Increased cutting distance more than 6x (from 9 to 57 linear feet) at full material thickness Reduced number of tools per wing skin from 24 to 2 Reduced programming time and increased productivity while reducing scrap Cost Savings = $80K per aircraft with an estimated savings/cost avoidance of $222.6M over the projected build of 2,783 F-35 aircraft
Increased Range / Mini-Cruise Missile
National Center for Defense Manufacturing & Machining
Material: Off-the-Shelf Investment Casted Turbo Charger Compressor Wheel Project Objectives: Replace an inefficient turbo charger compressor wheel with a high efficiency aluminum compressor wheel using advanced jet engine compressor concepts Machining time to be less than 60 minutes, maintain stringent tolerances at a target cost of $100 Increase engine efficiency by 8% System Solution: All geometric part features were within specified tolerances Compressor wheel is lighter, stronger and more efficient Target compressor wheel cost of $100 was achieved Machining cycle time was under 60 minutes Initial overall engine efficiency improvement was measured as high as 5% Project Savings = Increased initial overall engine efficiency 5%
Enterprise Dynamic Access Control
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
The U.S. Navy has created a patent-pending suite of Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) modular software components that automate and simplify the complexities and labor-intensive tasks of assigning users to resources. Unlike other Role Based Access Control systems, SSC San Diego’s powerful technology accounts for corporate, environmental, and user profile attribute changes on a real time basis to determine recourse access. Keeping up with the ever problematic task of controlling access to information, assets, and recourses has never been more important. The Navy’s access control can ease the process while still providing the solid security needed for role based access control systems. Summary of Benefits: Easy scalability to meet customer growth Simple cross domain capability Trouble-free role engineering Effortless access control audits for metric/policy purposes Real-time evaluation of corporate, user profile, and environmental changes Customizable business conditions Web service modular component-based and provisioning protocol capable
Excalibur Armament Actuator
National Center for Defense Manufacturing & Machining
Material: 7075 Aluminum Conventional Machining Method: Run Time was 7.5 hours with six (6) setups Unacceptable part quality System Solution: JUMPED™ Reduced setups from six (6) to three (3) All required tolerances and critical feature characteristics were achieved Processing time reduced from 7.5 hours to 1.5 hours Utilized new state-of-the-art tooling No disruption to daily ARDEC Prototype Lab activities Expected Cost Savings: Prototype Build = $90K Low Rate Initial Production(LRIP) = $5.25M Planned Production = $75M
Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle (EFV) Titanium Suspension Component
National Center for Defense Manufacturing & Machining
Material: 6A14V Titanium Forging Conventional Machining Method: Single Point Threading Milling Over 3 hours thread milling time per unit System Solution: Multi Tooth Indexable Thread Mill Tunable Dampening Package Optimized Machining Parameters Reducing machining time from < 3 hours to 32 minutes per component > $5.1M Savings in Machine Time on Thread Milling alone
Humvee Mobile Antenna Mounting Kit
National Center for Defense Manufacturing & Machining
Material: UpArmor (58-60 Rw"C")w/Kevlar Present Drilling Method: Hand held battery powered drills - inconsistent equipment High Speed steel (HSS) drill bits High tool failure in up armor material Operator fatigue due to dull drill bits Low battery life System Solution: Carbide drills designed for hard materials Magnetic base drill - stability for carbide drills Drill sharpener for on-site sharpening of drill bits High voltage / high torque hand held drills Consistency in equipment for all technicians Project Savings = >30% Reduction in Installation Time
Non-Destructive Evaluation of Microwave Tubes
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
The Navy has developed a low-cost, non-intrusive system for monitoring microwave transmitters (MTWs), and correctly identifying component failures. Current technology for monitoring MTWs is limited in that it cannot identify specific component failures within the MTW. When a MTW goes down due to a component failure, the entire MTW is often times replaced. SSC San Diego’s non-destructuive acoustic sensors can detect anomalous RF pulses, providing advanced warnings of component failure before the MTW fails. By placing these non-destructive acoustic emission sensors into new or existing MTWs, real time monitoring can take place, avoiding the wasteful failure and replacement of MTWs due to poor monitoring and specific component failure. Summary of Benefits Avoid incorrect replacement of high-value klystons, magnetrons, or MTWs In-situ prognostic capabilities provide advanced warning of a system malfunction Increase in system readiness and reliability Decrease in inventory of replacements and test systems Improved quality = "Lean Sigma Practices" Decrease in needed experience level of technicians and cost of training
New Optical Approach and Instrumentation for Single Particle Flow-thru Measurement of Mueller Matrix
Uniformed Services University Health Services
Inventor(s): Jozsef Czege, The Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Biomedical Instrumentation Center, and Dr. Burt V. Bronk, Air Force Research Laboratory, HEPC at Wright Patterson Air Force Base The application describes a novel optical instrument for measuring scattering properties of micron-sized particles via Mueller Matrix (MM) elements. Drs. Czege and Bronk have developed and tested a new single step, instantaneous method that can be packaged into a turn-key table-top instrument with modest additional development, and like many commercial spectrometers, could be successfully operated by anyone with average laboratory and technical skills. The new instrument allows for the instantaneous measurement of multiple MM parameters simultaneously in a fraction of a second for each particle in an aerosolized stream. Potential Applications for Particle Analysis Using this Method: 1) Real-time measurements of size and shape of micron-sized biological particles such as living bacteria in a suspension; 2) Quality control of manufacturing of micron-sized particles of various shapes to determine the extent of deviation from design parameters for members of a batch of particles; 3) Quality control of various powders manufactured for pharmaceuticals and other applications; 4) A method to give first responders important quantitative shape information on particles in an aerosol. This will help determine when hazardous particles or pathogens are present in the air. This information can be obtained on a single particle basis from airborne particles by this new method; and 5) Development of additional methods to determine the types of cells contained in biomedical samples. Collaboration with Industry Desired The scientists involved in this effort have had considerable experience in using Mueller matrix methods in various applications. Dr. J. Czege is a research professor at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. He is an expert experimental physicist, who is highly skilled in optical science and instrument development. Dr. B. V. Bronk is a biophysicist with the Air Force Research Laboratory with many years of experience in measuring physical properties of microorganisms. The Henry Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc. is exploring opportunities for patent licensing and collaborative development of the described instrument with parties interested in a research partnership with the inventors. We are looking for a partner who can show the ability to obtain or fabricate certain instrumentation for producing a prototype and provide some financial support for the project. The Foundation has filed a patent application covering the technology. To discuss licensing this technology please contact Carol Lavrich.
Microprocessor Power Reduction
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
With the use of portable and wireless electronic systems increasing, reduction in power/energy consumption has become one of the most important design concerns. Power dissipation not only affects performance and battery life, but also has a large impact on packaging, reliability, and heat removal costs. Threshold voltage is the minimum amount of power necessary to turn on a microprocessor. By fine-tuning this threshold, a much more efficient system can be created. Threshold tuning has been shown to decrease power consumption by as much as 10%, and power leakage by as much as 80%; however, current threshold tuning technology is limited by the physical dimensions of the microprocessor itself. SPAWAR has patented a pulsed laser method that overcomes this limitation allowing the threshold voltage of a microprocessor to be tuned regardless of its physical dimensions. Summary of Benefits Significant reduction in power needed for microprocessor Significant reduction in power leakage and dissipation The technology can be applied to any materials system (e.g., semi-conductor materials to include organics and substrates) End-user power conservation and cost reduction Reduction in overall system temperature Pulsed laser technique allows for greater accuracy in threshold tuning and selection of processor/transistors Ability to tune the threshold voltage for different applications integrated on the same chip
Advanced Hooking Algorithm
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
The advanced hooking algorithm supports and enhances existing user-interface designs by providing constant computation of a “selectable” cursor target, which is the object closest to the current cursor position on a computer display. Current user-interface designs typically require an end-user to place a cursor directly on an object to be selected, and provide feedback only after the user performs an action to select the desired object. With AHA, a pre-selected real-time target is always displayed, so the user knows in advance what will be selected when performing an action. The effective object selection area is increased without enlarging the displayed size of the object, cursor, or screen. The system identifies the “selectable” object by providing a visual indication of the closest object to the cursor before a user selection action is made. Highly useful on small screens, micro devices, or wherever objects are closely clusters or overlapping. Summary of Benefits: Improves object selection speed and accuracy Reduces required cursor travel distance to an object Improves track selection and information retrieval with trackball, mouse, touch-tablet, and all other input devices by a factor of two to three Provides real-time computation that is dynamic, not static Works over all software platforms and displays (including mobile-based) Has no impact to machine performance for any number of objects
Semantic Normalizer (SN)
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
The SN is a software application that provides users the capability to train responses for any given input; for example, training the application to summarize emails, books, or other literature. Current competitive techniques are based on a predetermined set of rules and relationships that are not always accurate, nor do they allow for further improvement. The SN automatically creates its own rules and relationships as a result of end-user feedback, allowing for easier customization and application. The SN provides the capability to summarize natural language statements, and product applications can also be supported with a pre-compiled knowledge base, allowing for an initial boost in performance. Summary of Benefits: Minimizes training time by automatically creating its own proper set of rules and relations Constantly evolves and improves accuracy with end-user feedback Is extremely scalable with no degradation in performance subsequent to training Provides a simple user interface based on an input/output design Operates in real time
Dynamic Change Point Detection
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
SSC San Diego seeks to commercialize, through patent licensing and collaborative commercial partnerships, a patented suite of technologies for early detection of significant changes in data. Dynamic Change Point Detection (DCD) can detect real-time changes in the conditions of the data that is being monitored. DCD is currently used in government hospitals, giving doctors an unprecedented look into patient’s health and changing conditions. This technology can also be applied to other applications, such as market-trend analysis and reporting, sales forecasting and analyzing, and system monitoring. DCD is a mature technology with implemented working systems, 1 patent issued, and 5 patents pending. Summary of Benefits: From the first data point on, this method Easy scalability to meet customer growth Simple cross domain capability Trouble-free role engineering Effortless access control audits for metric/policy purposes Real-time evaluation of corporate, user profile, and environmental changes Customizable business conditions Web service modular component-based and provisioning protocol capable
Light Induced Mechanical Motion
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
A number of natural and synthetic fibers and gels expand and contract when exposed to an environmental change. As a commercially exploitable technology, the fibers and gels have applications in many fields such as use in sensors, switches, motors, pumps, and non-metallic operations; as well as use in the medical and robotic fields where it is envisioned that these materials will be able to carry out the function of human muscle tissue. With current technology contraction times are extremely short (10 nanoseconds), the light used is ultraviolet and causes damage to the solution, and heat buildup is discharged too slowly. SPAWAR has created a technology that overcomes these deficiencies using only visible light and a simple solution of polymers. When exposed to visible light, the solution’s pH balance changes and it reacts by contracting indefinitely, all the while discharging the heat from the light. When the light is removed the solution returns to its original state in milliseconds. Summary of Benefits: Indefinite contraction times No need for UV light, needs only visible light Continuous heat discharge allowing the solution to return to its original state in milliseconds
Constrained-Feed Techniques for Phased-Array Subarrays
SENSORS DIRECTORATE
With the increased and planned future use of very large antenna arrays for space-based radar, communication, and large, ground-based apertures, there is an urgent need to reduce the number of control components, including phase shifters, attenuators, and time-delay units, to reduce the cost and complexity of future designs. A common solution involves the implementation of a subarray architecture in which time delay and phase shift are applied to groups of elements rather than the individual array elements. Current methods using uniform contiguous subarrays have high sidelobes, and space-fed overlapped subarray structures are extremely large and heavy. This novel, constrained-feed technique uses a multiplicity of small, constrained networks, each of which produces low sidelobes, and connects these together in a modular design that can be used with analog, digital, or optical beamformers to provide high gain with very low sidelobes. The technology is appropriate for: Remote sensing of crops or sea state Airport precision approach radar Design benefits over current technology: Lower sidelobes (<30dB) Smaller, lighter structure
Auditory Horizon for General Aviation
HUMAN EFFECTIVENESS DIRECTORATE
This technology was the Air Force winner in the OSD Office of Technology Transition & DoD TechMatch Hot Technologies Contest. The Auditory Horizon is a patent pending method developed by the Air Force Research Lab 711th Human Performance Wing, Human Effectiveness Directorate (711 HPW/RH). This lab has a long and successful history of advanced research in auditory displays that help military pilots maintain situational awareness and spatial orientation under extremely difficult conditions. This technology processes data from Global Positioning Systems and flight indicators then provides audio feedback to the pilot through the existing entertainment and communication systems. The Auditory Horizon technology provides a three dimensional auditory artificial horizon that the pilot can use to orient the aircraft. The audio display is continuously available, but is easily relegated to the pilot’s mental background when it is not needed. The Auditory Horizon has been tested by pilots at the NASA Langley Research Center. Key Advantages Increased situational awareness for general aviation pilots Increases flight safety by helping pilots avoid conditions that result in spatial disorientation Easily integrated into existing aircraft avionics equipment Proven effective in real flight tests Provides a clear advancement and “wow” factor that will increase avionics instrumentation sales Opportunity & Development Status The Auditory Horizon has been prototyped and tested. This technology is patent pending and is available for licensing from the US Air Force. A demonstration can be arranged. Collaborative R&D; with the Air Force is a possibility.
Avenger Bustle Box Delamination Reduction
National Center for Defense Manufacturing & Machining
Problem / Objective Letterkenny Army Depot (LEAD), Chambersburg, PA is currently in the process of producing components for the Avenger Bustle Box using a new composite material. This composite material is highly desired due to its superior performance and 45 percent weight reduction in comparison to the current bustle box material. LEAD is currently manufacturing these new composite panels with the use of a waterjet cutting process. The current waterjet cutting process has been identified as the cause of slight delamination of the outer layers of the composite material. This process also causes water damage between the layers by impregnating the composite core with water.The current waterjet cutting process time runs at about 70 inches per minute. Accomplishments / Payoff Process Improvement The NCDMM initiated the development of a solution by having test material, supplied by LEAD, sent to the NCDMM Testing and Development Lab. The NCDMM with the assistance of an Alliance Partner developed several cutting tools for testing. The first phase of testing began by researching various cutting tool geometries. Once the tool geometries were selected, optimal cutting speeds and feeds were determined. Photos of the cutting tools were taken, tool wear was measured, and the data was recorded. All tests were conducted at full depth/full slot. The initial test data results showed that some tools preformed better than others. Therefore, the main focus was redirected to the cutting tool that provided the least amount of delamination to the outer layers of the composite material. After careful evaluation, one tool was selected for additional life testing. In order to enhance the productivity of the selected tool, the NCDMM developed and conducted a Design of Experiments (DOE) to find the optimum run parameters. Upon completion of the DOE, the new tool design was capable of running at 119 inches per minute. The NCDMM then proceeded to investigate the cutting tool life. Follow-up life test results ran at 119 inches per minute and showed significant improvements to the composite quality as well as a reduction in cutting time. This was achieved with minimal wear to the cutting tool. The NCDMM, with the assistance of a key Alliance Partner, was able to develop an advanced cutting tool that would efficiently machine the composite material to the specifications required by LEAD. Implementation and Technology Transfer The following tool recommendations and process was made to LEAD: Proper cutting tool Proper cutting parameters and conditions Expected Benefits from the new Tool Geometry Increased productivity (119 inches / minute from 70 in. / min.) Better part quality (no delamination, or water impregnation) Better utilization of machining equipment
Night Vision Goggle Manufacturing Support
National Center for Defense Manufacturing & Machining
Problem / Objective Letterkenny Army Depot (LEAD), located in Chambersburg PA, received an order to manufacture 12,000 night vision goggle (NVG) plates. These plates are used to mount the NVG to the Soldier’s helmet. However, the quantities needed had increased over four fold from 12,000 to 52,000 (7,000 NVG plates per month) near the time of production. Based on these quantities, delivery dates, and current workload, LEAD requested the assistance of the National Center for Defense Manufacturing and Machining (NCDMM) to help optimize the NVG plate manufacturing process. The NCDMM and LEAD determined that based on the expected run time of forty-six (46) minutes for every ten (10) parts, the required monthly volume would be unattainable under current operating methods. NCDMM and LEAD personnel determined that optimization of the current NVG tool path and tooling was necessary to improve the capability of the depot to meet the delivery schedule. NCDMM engineers traveled to LEAD to assess the current machining operation used to produce the NVG plates. LEAD machining personnel were interviewed and the total machining process was evaluated. It was determined that the NCDMM would deliver and implement optimized tooling and tool paths as well as a Mastercam (CNC programming software for machine tools) part file allowing LEAD the ability to easily continue with future improvements. Accomplishments / Payoff Process Improvement NCDMM engineers developed a Mastercam file complete with all fixturing and part models. Tool paths were developed and optimized through verification software. Key areas were then tested at the NCDMM Testing and Development Lab on NCDMM’s Haas VF-6 machining center to prove out the tool path. Optimized tooling was selected and implemented with the new tool path. Tool holders were also selected and balanced to perform at the optimum speeds. Implementation and Technology Transfer Once tooling was selected and the tool path optimization was completed, NCDMM engineers implemented the optimized process at the LEAD facility on their Haas VF-5 machining center. Expected Benefits The optimized tooling and tool path resulted in a 30% reduction in cycle time compared to the original program. Implementing this solution enables LEAD to meet its increased production schedule of 52,000 plates. This improvement also reduces the estimated cost $2.18 per NVG plate. This represents a savings of $113,360 over the initial order of approximately 52,000 plates.
Advanced Wireless Simulation / Video Game Controller
TechLink
The advanced game controller is a patent pending method developed by the Army for use in simulation and training environments. This technology uses a variety of sensors, a weapon replica and a head mounted display to allow the participant to interact with a computer through standard keyboard and mouse hardware connections. The player’s actions like running, jumping, crouching, and shooting control the first person game character. No separate keyboard or mouse inputs are required. Key Advantages Wireless interface from the gamer to the computer allows realistic and full range of motions Actual movement and actions of the player control the game / simulation character Interface utilizes standard computer hardware Plug and Play with America’s Army Video Game The advanced game controller technology has been prototyped and tested. This technology is patent pending and is available for licensing from the US Army. A demonstration with the prototype can be arranged. Collaborative R&D; with the Army is a possibility.
Rapid Clotting Technology
TechLink
The US Army seeks a commercial and/or cooperative development partner for a rapid clotting technology for use in a variety of emergency and surgical situations. The Technology: The US Army has patented the combination of recombinant factor VIIa and fibrinogen for stemming blood loss and restoring hemostasis. This combination is administered intravenously and circulates safely through the body to the site of injury. The approach would be especially useful for treating multiple wounds and internal bleeding. Background: Hemorrhage is one of the most common causes of death among those who die prior to reaching an emergency room or expire in the operating room. Research has demonstrated the individual effectiveness of recombinant factor VIIa and fibrinogen in clotting. Factor VIIa plays a key role in activating the blood coagulation process and fibrinogen provides the raw materials needed to make an effective clot. The combination of factor VIIa and fibrinogen is a logical approach to treating emergency and surgical bleeding. Benefits: Portable: Can be used to treat trauma in the field or en route to a hospital Shelf Stable: Components can be stored for years in dry form or months wet Easy to Use: Reconstitutes quickly and is administered via IV Useful in Difficult Cases: Able to help control bleeding in hard-to-reach injuries, such as pelvic venous plexus tears and deep liver injuries Opportunities: Patent No. 6,825,323 is available for licensing. Further joint development with the Army Institute of Surgical Research is possible under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA). Additional details of the technology, an overview of the licensing process, and an interview with the inventor, are available through TechLink.
Electroactive Polymer Biaxial Braid
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center San Diego has developed an EAP structure that has decreased bulk and mass, and increased flexibility and local shape control. By braiding multiple EAP segments and controlling which segment current is applied, as well as the direction of the current, the movement and shape of the structure can be controlled. For example, applying a current in the same direction to two over-lapping segments will create a rigid area; whereas applying opposite current creates a hump or dip. By adjusting the direction, timing, and voltage to an EAP structure, a multitude of shapes and movements are possible. Benefits The structure can cooperatively generate forces on three dimensions, whereas individual strands can only exert force in one direction. The biaxial braids are light and can replace heavy machinery and parts. Shapes can be woven to create necessary structures depending on application (cylinder, sphere, blanket, box, etc.), which allows for snake-like movements to climb or swim. The technology enables scalability for large and small-scale devices and can be used in unconventional settings such as at deep levels of the sea.
Exponentially Tapered Biconical Antenna
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
Emergence of Software Defined Radio (SDR) for the commercial sector and Software Communications Architecture (SCA) for the military sector has broadened antenna frequency requirements greatly. Co-site interference, blockage, and overall real estate availability are just some of the problems that have plagued the growth in frequency requirements and the associated problems with multiple individual antennas. The Joint Tactical Radio System’s (JTRS) goal is to reduce 25 to 30 radio families into one system to cover 2 MHz to 2 GHz, and beyond, using very few antennas. Using a bicone antenna configuration as a feed transformer and exponentially tapered reflector fins to radiate the antenna’s energy, SSC San Diego has developed an antenna capable of transmitting over a range of 130 MHz to 9.0 GHz Benefits Omni-directional and vertically polarized Compact design decreases the traditional bicone antenna diameter from 56" to 24", a 60% reduction Protected in a cylindrical fiberglass tube Return loss is reduced over operating frequency bands compared to classical designs Does not require a ground plane DoD 5000 Series Technologiy Readiness Level 9
Bio-Repellent Matrix Coating
SPAWAR SYSTEMS CENTER, PACIFIC
The core material, composed of an environmentally safe (a.k.a “green”) bio-repellent substance suspended in a resinous binder, is microencapsulated in two shell designs and differentiated by diffusion rates that are controlled by the shells’ wall thickness and diameter. This “green” substance may be a mixture of capsaicin oils (e.g., oleoresins), derived from a human-safe food extract, and diluted from a solution ranging from 100,000 to 1,5000,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). For comparison purposes, non-lethal mace is limited to 200,000 SHU. Organisms are instantly deterred on demand when they make contact against the matrix structure, rupturing the microcapsules’ walls and releasing a plume of core material. The core material also diffuses automatically through the microcapsules’ walls and exhibits long-term protection against the formation of biological organisms that would otherwise accumulate on the matrix structure. Benefits True enabling technology capable of generating several new “green” products Highly effective for pest control (e.g., termites) while eliminating risks to both humans and the environment Cost and implementation comparable to or cheaper than traditional chemical or biological deterrents Core material can be protected from the deleterious effects of the surrounding environment Core material can be safely handled using available gear (i.e., gloves, masks) Protect a wide variety of structures prone to accumulation or attacks by biological organisms in many diverse environments Controlled release of the core material occurs over a programmed time interval (sustained release) and on demand (stimulated release)
Chromium-Free Compositions and Processes
NAVAIR PATUXENT RIVER
The U.S. Navy seeks to commercialize through patent licensing a chromium-free process and composition for post-treating anodized aluminum and metallic coatings and for pre-treatment of aluminum. The Naval Air Station at Patuxent River, MD, has developed a novel process and composition for improving the durability and corrosion resistance of metals and metal coatings. This process is chromium-free and also contains no Ni, V, Co or lanthanides. Formulation of this chromium-free process (CFP) is a single solution that can be applied by immersion, spray or wipe application. The formulation allows for short dwell times and requires no cures. It is easy to mix and handle, and has a pH of 3-4. The Navy is developing applications of CFP for post-treatment of anodized aluminum, posttreatment of sacrificial metallic coatings on steel or other metal substrates, and for the pretreatment of aluminum substrates prior to painting. Companies may participate in these or related development efforts under a full CRADA, or obtain samples for test and evaluation through a limited purpose CRADA. Published patent application numbers 20070095436, 20070099022 and 20070095437 are available for licensing. Benefits: Anti-corrosion and adhesive properties Environmentally friendly / non-carcinogenic Easy to make, use, and apply Cost competitive with hex and trivalent chromium solutions
Variable Height Bulkhead
TechLink
Field personnel with the US Army Corps of Engineers – New York District (USACE), have developed a self-adjusting, variable height bulkhead for use along beaches and waterways where it is desirable to preserve the view, but control is needed against wave action and storm surges. The USACE is interested in cooperative research and development efforts for this technology, and in licensing out its pending patent (Pat. Appl. 12/006,757, “Hydrostatically Operated Variable Height Bulkhead”, filed Jan 02, 2008). Waterfront properties and roadways are often protected by permanent bulkheads. It is a challenge to build them tall enough to be effective, but low enough to preserve high-value views. Some of these bulkheads are equipped with pumps to deal with storm surge and wave-induced overtopping. This is a costly and maintenance-intensive solution that is particularly ineffective for long stretches of bulkheads as may be needed for roadways and marinas. The USACE team has devised a “floating” solution that adjusts vertically, using only the mechanism of a rising water level. It does not require operator attention, pumping or other mechanical controls. It can be retrofitted to any existing bulkheads that are permanently located, and that have some depth of water next to them. A floating internal wall is constructed in between the existing barrier and a second, barrier wall. When a surge occurs, the floating wall rises on the water. As the water recedes, the floating wall drops back between the two external walls, and a cover cap falls back in place on the top ledge. Design attention has been given to preventing the inner wall from hanging up on debris, and from rising too far. Examples of desirable applications include marinas, private waterfront property, harbors, highways, industrial overflow basins, and municipal properties.
Storm Water Treatment System
TechLink
The US Navy has developed, tested, and patented a storm water runoff treatment system that meets stringent military and governmental industrial site toxicity requirements. The system is similar to a sand filter; however, instead of relying solely on sand, heavy metals, in particular zinc and copper, are removed by a bed of special filter-adsorption materials. Military and industrial sites must comply with increasingly stringent discharge requirements. Most commercially available storm water runoff systems are not built to handle the elevated metal content present in military and industrial runoff. The Navy system meets strict regulatory toxicity requirements in a cost-effective manner. Benefits: Effective: The Navy system has consistently exceeded regulatory requirements while the previous system met requirements only one-third of the time. Low capital cost: The subject treatment system costs approximately $20,000 per acre of watershed compared to at least $57,000 per acre for the previsouly installed commercial technology. Space saving: The technology requires a smaller amount of space compared to competing technologies, making it attractive for cramped military and industrial sites. Low maintenance costs: Media bed expected to last at least 10 years before requireing replacement. Routine upkeep expected to consist of removing and replacing the top ince of gravel on the bed annually. The US Navy seeks a commercial partner to commercialize a storm water treatment system that removes heavy metals in a cost-effective manner. US patents 7,025,887 and 7,160465 are available for license. Additional details of the technology, including technical reports and cost analyses, an overview of the licensing process, and an interview with the inventors, are available through TechLink.