Wireless Sensing for Survivable Machinery Control Navy STTR FY2005 Sol No.: Navy STTR FY2005 Topic No.: N05-T020 Topic Title: Wireless Sensing for Survivable Machinery Control Proposal No.: N054-020-0390 Firm: AEPTEC Microsystems, Inc. 700 King Farm Boulevard Suite 600 Rockville, Maryland 20850 Contact: Willis Drake Phone: (301) 670-6779 Web Site: http://www.aeptec.com Abstract: With the advancements and proliferation of wireless voice and data communications, there is a logical extension of these technologies to machinery monitoring and control systems. Typically, data communications occur over twisted pairs or fiber optic media. In a highly automated ship for reduced manning goals, the infrastructure to support these automation schemes may be difficult to implement given the survivability requirements. A WLAN with 802.11 technology provides redundant, 100% connectivity needed to support ship-wide device-level networking. However, under emergency conditions, such as a weapons strike, fire, or flooding, some portions of the network may become unusable, isolated, or destroyed. Backup means of providing wireless connectivity across bulkheads is needed. This backup connectivity could provide for re-establishment of communication between device level control components in the damaged area and the ship's control and monitoring networks, as well as establish voice communication between damage control personnel inside the compartment and the rest of the ship. . This SBIR response proposes the evaluation of two methods of through bulkhead communication that could be integrated with wireless technology. One option uses a piezoelectric device, mounted on each side of a bulkhead, to provide a coupling across the bulkhead. Another approach develops a hybrid wireless / power line carrier communication system. Benefits: The Navy has already capitalized on emerging wireless technologies and emerging wireless security solutions to demonstrate the advantages of wireless applications shipboard. These advantages include reducing the cost associated with rewiring for additional sensors and taking advantage of mobile computing for administration, training, and maintenance in shipboard environments. Wireless hardware qualified to military standards and software certified to FIPS 140-2 security standards has been developed. The Navy is in position to capitalize on these same emerging wireless technologies and security solutions integrated with innovative through bulkhead communication technology to develop an integrated survivable distributed control and monitoring network that supports a high level of automation, component (device level) control, and smart devices. Return