N112-158 TITLE: Underwater Internal Imaging and Diagnostic Tool for Limpet Mines and IEDs for the EOD Mission

TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Sensors

RESTRICTION ON PERFORMANCE BY FOREIGN CITIZENS (i.e., those holding non-U.S. Passports): This topic is "ITAR Restricted." The information and materials provided pursuant to or resulting from this topic are restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 22 CFR Parts 120 - 130, which control the export of defense-related material and services, including the export of sensitive technical data. Foreign Citizens may perform work under an award resulting from this topic only if they hold the "Permanent Resident Card", or are designated as "Protected Individuals" as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). If a proposal for this topic contains participation by a foreign citizen who is not in one of the above two categories, the proposal will be rejected.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this topic is to develop and demonstrate a single diver or small UUV portable, non-invasive capability to image and display in-situ the internal components of underwater explosive threats, such as limpet mines or underwater Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). This capability should be able to acquire and display internal components, such as firing train components, anti-removal and anti-tamper devices, method of attachment (if applicable), and air voids.

DESCRIPTION: Currently Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technicians have equipment capable of detecting and imaging underwater threats; however being able to identify the internal components of underwater explosive devices is critical for proper threat identification and neutralization. Conventional methods for non-invasive internal component imaging, such as x-ray, have not been successfully demonstrated in the underwater environment; therefore, a new capability or novel approach is needed. The capability developed under this effort must be able to be operated at a stand-off distance from the target of interest by single EOD diver and/or integrated onto a small (two-man deployable) UUV or Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV).

PHASE I: Determine tecnhnical feasibility and characterize the ability of the proposed technology to image and distinguish internal components of various limpet mines and IEDs. The approach may include limited testing on and/or modeling of actual inert limpet shapes provided by the Government and/or models based on descriptions/specifications to be provided by the Government. The final report shall clearly explain the operational capabilities and limitations of the technology, including but not limited to: image resolution, depth perception, minimum/maximum stand-off distance, and underwater explosive device material constraints (i.e. items made of x material will absorb too much noise to render an image, etc.). The results shall include a preliminary optimized design for Phase II consideration.

PHASE II: Fabricate and provide a prototype of the proposed technology. Perform laboratory tests to validate the performance characteristics established in Phase I and conduct a demonstration in a realistic environment.

PHASE III: Develop an acquisition-ready system description and final design documentation that meet defined operation guidelines to enable rapid production.

PRIVATE SECTOR COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL/DUAL-USE APPLICATIONS: While the initial purpose for this effort is to image the internal components of limpet mines and waterborne IEDs, the capability can be adapted for use with influence mines. Also, an underwater internal component inspection system will have many commercial applications: oil and gas, underwater exploration, etc.

REFERENCES:
1. Chief of Naval Operations Instruction (OPNAVINST) 3501.97G, Required Operational Capabilities (ROC) and Projected Operational Environment (POE) for Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group Forces, 02 June 2005.

2. Joint EOD Initial Capabilities Document (ICD), Serial number 671-75-05, 03 June 2005.

3. Naval Warfare Publication NTTP 3-15.23, Underwater Mine Countermeasures Operations, March 2005.

4. Requirements Document for the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Diver Hull Imaging and Navigation System (DHINS), CNO ltr 10560 Ser N757F1/5U931806, dtd 13 May 2005.

KEYWORDS: Underwater Imaging; Imaging of Internal Components; Non-Invasive Imaging; Limpet; IED, Mine

** TOPIC AUTHOR (TPOC) **

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