Mobile-Agent-Based Autonomous Data Fusion for Distributed Sensors Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2009.1 Topic No.: N091-068 Topic Title: Mobile-Agent-Based Autonomous Data Fusion for Distributed Sensors Proposal No.: N091-068-0447 Firm: Impact Technologies, LLC 200 Canal View Blvd Rochester, New York 14623-2851 Contact: Liang Tang Phone: (585) 424-1990 Web Site: www.impact-tek.com Abstract: Impact Technologies, LLC in collaboration with Wright State University and Northrop Grumman, proposes to develop and demonstrate a mobile-agent-based decentralized data fusion system that fuses the data from geographically-dispersed heterogeneous sensors into an integrated ISR information system. Unlike conventional centralized methods, in which each sensor sends local information to a processing center for integration, in the proposed approach, data will first be processed on the sensor nodes, then fused locally within a group of unmanned vehicles using lightweight mobile-agents before the information is further fused at system level. Instead of transmitting large amounts of data over the network, the mobile-agent with partially integrated results migrates from one node to another performing data fusion at each node visited. This results in a reliable power-efficient data fusion process that improves decision accuracy in a progressive fashion without requiring a high bandwidth. The system will be built on a hierarchical open system architecture using standard protocols while the software implementation and integration will follow a well-established system engineering approach. At the conclusion of Phase I, a design concept will be developed and feasibility will be demonstrated through software simulation using typical littoral ISR scenarios. Benefits: The seamless integration of Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) into a network of ships, unmanned vehicles and offboard sensors, each equipped with dissimilar communications, command and control systems demands the development of an advanced autonomous data fusion system. The result of this program will contribute directly to that effort. The data/sensor fusion problem permeates a large sector of government and industry operations. Breakthrough technologies intended to improve the practicality and reliability of data fusion systems for large distributed sensor networks will benefit air traffic control, surveillance and reconnaissance, search and rescue operations, border patrol and law enforcement operations, and distributed fault diagnostics, among many others. When integrated into a distributed monitoring environment, such technological advances can reduce the risk of false identification while achieving communication and power efficiency. The aerospace, air traffic control, transportation and other industries stand to benefit from the introduction of these innovative technologies into their operations. Northrop Grumman's involvement in this project will significantly benefit the demonstration and commercialization of the proposed technology. Return