Physical Optics Corporation — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: MDA14-022

Description

Physical Optics Corporation (POC) proposes to develop a new compact, Micro-Electro-Mechanical S&A Device (MEMSAD) for the ignition of rocket motors or firing of explosive devices. The MEMSAD will be compliant with all applicable military standards, will have several levels of electrical and mechanical protections against unintended firing, and will withstand and work in extreme environmental conditions. The innovations in the MEMSAD design will allow a significant reduction in size and will achieve the required rigidity and performance reliability, while utilizing commercial of-the-shelf (COTS) components and materials, and well-established manufacturing technologies for its fabrication. In Phase I, POC will design and fabricate several prototypes of the proposed device and demonstrate their performance at each of the required operational steps in the available testing chamber. In Phase II, POC will ruggedize this device further, fabricate several prototypes, and work with the designated testing range to demonstrate MEMSAD compliance with applicable safety and reliability requirements. Approved for Public Release 14-MDA-8047 (14 Nov 14)