Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: A16-126

Description

To address the Armys need for lightweight, low-bulk, rugged, and launderable connectors for transport of power and data with no negative impact on the flame-retardant character of the materials Army aircrews wear while on duty, Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop the new Launderable Enhanced Electrotextile Snap-Connector Arrangement (LEESA). It is based on a robust approach to seamless integration of electronics and textiles found in POCs family of e-wearables. Specifically, the innovation in low-profile, washable, self-sealing electrical interconnection with high data rate and low bit error rate will enable the LEESA connector to advance the state of the art in e-textiles while simultaneously preserving warfighter safety, which directly addresses Air Soldier requirements such as ruggedization against degradation from detergent, water, and agitation without impacting flame retardancy of the underlying garment, e-textile, or narrow fabric. In Phase I, POC will demonstrate the feasibility of LEESA by reaching technology readiness level (TRL)-3/-4 in laboratory experiments and by modeling and simulation (M&S). In Phase II, POC plans to develop an advanced prototype and perform validation and performance testing in conjunction with the Army, reaching TRL-5/-6.