SBIR-STTR Award

Proposed herein are novel design methodologies to create sensors for chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and/or explosive (CBRNE) detection aboard a Small Unmanned Aerial System (SUAS), as well as intelligent Bayesian-based plume analysis and source detection algorithms that offer capabilities for the Air Force above and beyond the state of the art.The assembled technical team of experts from NevadaNano and the University of Utah Robotics Center has a history of collaborating in the area of SUAS-compatible sensor design, development, and deployment to ensure successful project outcomes and deliverables. Sensor designs will leverage both NevadaNanos sensor selection and design experience as well as the teams successful track record with the Molecular Property Spectrometer (MPS)a robust, low-cost, silicon-chip-based sensor platform. We will develop a concept of operations, a conceptual design document, and predict sensor performance in simulated plumes using novel source detection algorithms.Sensor,Plume,CBRNE,SUAS,UAV,algorithm,Bayesian,design

This project will demonstrate a proof-of-concept Small Unmanned Aerial System (SUAS) equipped with chemical sensors for plume tracking and source detection in a realistic outdoor environment. The project will first develop designs for incorporating chemical sensors onto Group 1 fixed wing and quadcopter SUAS, then make SUAS-performance-enhancing improvements to the Molecular Property Spectrometer (MPS) sensor platform, and eventually solve the problem of how SUAS equipped with such sensors would perform plume tracking and source detection. The team will demonstrate plume detection capability and sensitivity levels through a set of carefully designed experiments and demonstrations. The program leverages the successes of Phase I efforts in the design of SUAS compatible CBRNE sensors and identifying novel algorithms for plume tracking and source detection. The assembled technical team of experts from NevadaNano and the University of Utah Robotics Center has a history of collaborating in the area of SUAS-compatible sensor design, development, and deployment to ensure successful project outcomes and deliverables.