SBIR-STTR Award

Three years ago when the Rapid Retargeting projects were being formulated, it was not possible to address mixed or analog components with a programmable replacement. This limitation, while not completely solved, is changing. A new generation of devices, known as Field Programmable Analog Arrays (FPAAs) and mixed-signal arrays (FPMAs) have recently been introduced. The overall objective of this effort is to augment the Navy's ongoing Rapid Retargeting effort, which to date has focused on digital function, with a broader program to address all electronic components regardless of technology. The objective of Phase I is to prove feasibility by simulating a series of SEM Format A Key Codes with a single FPAA or FPMA simulation. This effort will have an impact in two areas. First, a solution to the critical obsolescence problem currently facing the Navy will be introduced. Second, the number of spares currently required for operational units could be greatly reduced through execution of an operational PAMs program. The results of the Phase I PAMs program will provide an expansion of the Rapid Retargeting effort already active in the Navy.

Benefit:
Improvements in informational display technology that will come about from VLA research can be utilized in in a multitude of government agencies and commercial businesses. Integrated human interface and engineering factors, with subsequent enhanced performance, can then be transferred over to DOT for use by the United States Coast Guard, applied to FAA research on Heliport development and internationally adapted to Maritime and Offshore operations.

Keywords:
Electronic, Electronic, VHDL, Web-based subcontracting, SEM, FPGA, manufacturing information system, process, commerce, Virtual manufacturing, intelligent, manufacturing, programmable, FPAA, capabilities, distributed manufacturing, modules

In this project Tygart will build a working version of the Distributed Manufacturing Information System (DMIS), which will enable small and medium sized manufacturing firms to lower the price of their manufactured items. DMIS is a Web-based software tool which minimizes manufacturing costs by automating the process of job allocation among a distributed network of subcontractors and suppliers. With DMIS, manufacturing jobs are broken down and allocated among the team of supplier firms in a cost-effective manner. DMIS is an intelligent electronic commerce system for manufacturers, utilizing the World Wide Web for communicating requirements, bids and purchase orders between the prime and the subcontractors, while minimizing manufacturing costs. Several major innovations are embodied in the design of DMIS. First is the recognition that for distributed manufacturing, enterprise level (or very coarse-grain) planning is necessary and sufficient for examining the manufacturing process capabilities of potential suppliers in automatically match suppliers with job requirements. The second innovation is in the creation of an Intelligent Planning Assistant which contains rules which will enable DMIS to suggest alternative manufacturing processes when a process plan is being created. The third innovation is finding an

Benefit:
The distributed Manufacturing Information System will enable manufacturing firms t effectively cooperate to meet the challenges of global competition, down sizing, and corporate and Federal budget pressures. The proposed stem will enable the U.S. Navy to expand its supplier base into cooperating groups of smaller manufacturers, saving on cost and turnaround time

Keywords:
Electronic, commerce, programmable, intelligent, distributed manufacturing, FPAA, modules, manufacturing, manufacturing information system, process, VHDL, FPGA, SEM, Virtual manufacturing, Web-based subcontracting, capabilities