SBIR-STTR Award

Focused Enhanced Acoustic Driver Technologies (FEAT) - GENASYS
Award last edited on: 6/4/2021

Sponsored Program
SBIR
Awarding Agency
DOD : Navy
Total Award Amount
$137,433
Award Phase
1
Solicitation Topic Code
N202-089
Principal Investigator
Andrew Hofmann

Company Information

Genasys Inc

16262 West Bernardo Drive
San Diego, CA 92127
   (858) 649-8516
   info@genasys.com
   www.genasys.com
Location: Multiple
Congr. District: 52
County: San Diego

Phase I

Contract Number: M67854-21-P-6606
Start Date: 12/9/2020    Completed: 10/8/2021
Phase I year
2021
Phase I Amount
$137,433
The scope of this proposal is to discuss potential concepts for the development of a Focused Enhanced Acoustic-Driver Technology. This technology would be utilized primarily in acoustic hailing devices (AHDs). This proposal will demonstrate various innovations to improve the range and voice intelligibility performance of AHDs. Phase I Technical Objectives Increase the Acoustic Output Levels of Each of the Acoustic Drivers: We will increase the acoustic output through (A) better magnet-motor assembly, (B) diaphragm redesign, and (C) horn redesign Increasing the Gain in Delivered SPLs Achieved by Employing Adaptive Beamforming Techniques: We will increase SPL Gain by employing a coaxial acoustic driver configuration, allowing for more effective beamforming. Improving the Clarity/Intelligibility and Sound Penetration Capabilities of the Voice/Warning Signal Commands by Using Lower Frequencies: With our innovative approaches to acoustic driver output and configuration, we will create a device capable of improved projection of lower frequencies. Implementing an Atmospheric Compensation Algorithm that will Allow for Better Targeting: We will create a compensator tool that will incorporate numerous sensors to measure several atmospheric factors that will allow for more accurate targeting.

Benefit:
The Navys desired to reduce driver weight, increase range and clarity, improve beam gain and limit environmental factors in a next-generation acoustic hailing device (AHD) is congruent with the desires of our existing military and commercial customer base. Genasys has commercialized new products before: we created the AHD market beginning in 2002, successfully introduced our 360-degree product line in 2015 and significantly reduced the form factor if AHDs with the introduction of dual diaphragm drivers in 2017. Our new production facility, stable supply chain, network of authorized resellers and experienced sales and marketing teams are well-suited to commercialize the next-generation AHD that will come out of this Focused Enhanced Acoustic-Driver Technologies (FEAT) research effort. The AHD enhancements described in the Navys 20.2 SIBR are expected to be primarily of interest to military operators although Genasys' AHDs are also currently used by the Departments of Homeland Security (Customs & Border Protection, ICE), State, Agriculture, Interior and Energy. Over 450 metropolitan police forces and emergency management offices also use LRADs for a variety of applications including law enforcement, disaster response and critical infrastructure protection. Domestically, the current market for AHDs is estimated to be $30 35 million per year with an expected annual growth rate of 3-5%. Adding the next-generation AHD to additional platforms like the Common Remotely Operated Weapon System (CROWS), Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), and a variety of autonomous vehicles, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and unmanned surface vessels (USV) has significant potential to increase the size of the AHD market. Total cost of this proposal is $226,223.36. Phase I base cost is $137,434.28; Phase I option cost is $88,789.28. These figures include travel from San Diego to Washington DC for kickoff and final presentation meetings if required.

Keywords:
GENASYS, GENASYS, AHD, Next Generation Acoustic Hailing Device, Focused Enhanced Acoustic-Driver Technologies, Acoustic Hailing Device, FEAT, Non-Lethal Hail and Warn Capabilities, LRAD

Phase II

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Start Date: 00/00/00    Completed: 00/00/00
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