SBIR-STTR Award

Shock Tolerant, Solid State, Submersible Emergency Transmitter
Award last edited on: 10/30/2018

Sponsored Program
SBIR
Awarding Agency
DOD : Navy
Total Award Amount
$1,645,551
Award Phase
2
Solicitation Topic Code
N131-051
Principal Investigator
Robert H Sternowski

Company Information

Softronics Limited

1080 East Post Road Suite 1
Marion, IA 52302
   (319) 447-1446
   jimm@softronicsltd.com
   www.softronicsltd.com
Location: Single
Congr. District: 01
County: Linn

Phase I

Contract Number: N00024-13-P-4021
Start Date: 6/19/2013    Completed: 12/19/2013
Phase I year
2013
Phase I Amount
$145,658
Softronics Ltd. proposes employing a novel circuit topology to create a state-of-the-art replacement for the emergency buoy HF transmitter. Using less than 24 components per transmitter, it features very high power efficiency and extended battery life. The 5 cubic inch, 3 ounce transmitter module is designed to directly interface to the existing buoy system.

Benefit:
This system is designed solely for the unique requirements of the emergency buoy. The technology has little applicability to any other users. The product will be manufactured by Softronics Ltd.

Keywords:
Power management, Power management, digital amplifier, transmitter, HF, OOK

Phase II

Contract Number: N00024-15-C-4014
Start Date: 11/10/2014    Completed: 9/6/2018
Phase II year
2015
Phase II Amount
$1,499,893
Softronics Ltd. proposes a module-by-module design refresh of the emergency HF transmitter, based on system analysis and critical circuit/component testing done in Phase I. Specifically, each of the six module types will be replaced by a PCB/SMT equivalent module that is fit/function interchangeable. Obsolete and/or troublesome components will specifically be replaced, otherwise legacy circuitry will be retained to the maximum extent possible to preserve the reliability and operational availability of the legacy system. The exception is the obsolete analog amplifier module, which will be replaced by a high-efficiency digital amplifier. This will enable new manufacturing lots and use as spares for older transmitters. Phase II culminates in a complete system design, test, and production documentation, and the Option performs legacy environmental compliance testing.

Benefit:
This system is designed solely for the unique requirements of the emergency HF transmitter system. The specific design has no applicability to any other users or markets, unless the Navy were to allow FMS sales. However, Softronics proven methodology of refreshing the design by doing interchangeable module designs is applicable to ANY legacy equipment suffering from obsolescence or discontinued production. Softronics Ltd. plans to vigorously pursue follow-on manufacturing contracts for this design, which would be ideally matched to our size, business model, and manufacturing capabilities.

Keywords:
OOK, transmitter, Power management, HF, digital amplifier