SBIR-STTR Award

Machine Learning Applied to Counterfeit Detection
Award last edited on: 12/9/22

Sponsored Program
SBIR
Awarding Agency
DOD : DMEA
Total Award Amount
$1,267,494
Award Phase
2
Solicitation Topic Code
DMEA192-002
Principal Investigator
Whitney Batchelor

Company Information

Graf Research Corporation (AKA: Graf LLC)

712 North Main Street Suite 301
Blacksburg, VA 24060
   (540) 613-1420
   N/A
   www.grafresearch.com
Location: Single
Congr. District: 09
County: Montgomery

Phase I

Contract Number: HQ072720P0010
Start Date: 11/25/19    Completed: 6/10/20
Phase I year
2020
Phase I Amount
$167,498
The machine learning for counterfeit detection research program commences with a study evaluating the feasibility of applying machine learning to detect FPGA counterfeits. The underlying process will be broadly applicable throughout the supply chain. Using a proprietary non-destructive means of gathering data from FPGA devices, we will then make use of the data in a variety of machine learning algorithms to determine the most efficient and accurate methodology for genuine/counterfeit indication using the provided data. Lastly, an exploration into the supply chain and deployment strategies will develop a business case for full implementation of the recommended toolset. Ultimately, this research program will study the feasibility of developing a mechanism for counterfeit detection that is readily deployable and applicable at any stage of product life.

Phase II

Contract Number: HQ072721C0003
Start Date: 1/7/21    Completed: 1/10/23
Phase II year
2021
Phase II Amount
$1,099,996
The machine learning for counterfeit detection research program continues the successful Phase 1 feasibility study of applying machine learning to detect FPGA counterfeits. In Phase 1, Graf Research demonstrated the feasibility of implementing a machine learning based counterfeit detection platform for a single FPGA device and representing data characteristic of repackaged counterfeit devices. The sensor development and FPGA characterization approaches demonstrated in the first phase are generally applicable across FPGA architectures with minimal alterations. The second phase of this program will focus on improving and assessing the efficacy of that machine learning-based solution in classifying counterfeit devices by expanding the feasibility study to a full prototype characterization and machine-learning model-building, training, and classification solution. In addition, the second phase will demonstrate portability of the solution by identifying the features and characterization information necessary for expansion to an MPSoC with artificial intelligence IP cores. This effort will result in a prototype platform for applying machine learning to detection of counterfeit devices. The envisioned process will be broadly applicable throughout the supply chain using no external equipment. The program focuses on producing a unique dataset resulting from non-destructive evaluation of devices to obtain aging-related data and employing machine learning to classify the data as indicating a device is genuine or counterfeit. Due to the non-destructive approach and lack of reliance on specialized external equipment, once a model is developed for a particular device and counterfeit class, cost of actual deployment into the supply chain is minimal. The solution and demonstration that is ready for Phase 3 technical transition will serve as a non-destructive means for evaluating device authenticity at any point in the microelectronics for weapons systems supply chain.