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PROGRAM SOLICITATION
Small Business Innovation Research Program

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Questions and Answers

Federal Highway Administration

082-FH1    Dilemma Zone Detection and Warning System

1. QUESTION:
   It is stated that "A prototype system is expected by the end of Phase I, which can demonstrate the concept of operations and the functionality. The prototype is not required to perform at live intersections". What should be the functionality of the hardware prototype system at the end of phase I? Are simulation results at the end of phase I sufficient?

   ANSWER:
   By the end of the project, an integrated prototype system is expected, which should have functional subsystems (sensors, communication, warning lights, central computer, etc.) and they are integrated. Due to the safety consideration and the issue of coordination with state DOTs, the prototype system will not be directly operating at live intersections, instead, it should be installed and demoed at a research site (such as the research intersection at TFHRC) or at a real intersection with "dark" performance (lights are not visible to the drivers, but can be recorded by researchers). A simulation only is not sufficient.

2. QUESTION:
   The example shown in the solicitation where the warning system is implemented on the side of the road. Is this system also envisioned for multiple lanes? In that case there might be problems when the vehicles traveling in adjacent lane have significantly different speeds (and thus markedly different DZ). Will the final warning system be as shown in the solicitation or should the design be part of the proposal?

   ANSWER:
   The example in the solicitation just served as an inspiration, which is not necessary the final design guide. In fact, DOT is soliciting more creative ideas to solve the dilemma zone problem. Exactly copying the example will not meet DOT's expectation. The issue of multiple lanes need to be addressed in the proposal and the new methods are encouraged.

3. QUESTION:
   Are there any particular sensor systems which are preferred over others ( say they are already in service and a system upgrade would not cost as much )

   ANSWER:
   One of the main objectives of the system is the low cost, making use of the existing sensors is a good idea in lowering the cost. DOT does not require the use of any particular sensors - bidders can propose any kind of sensors that can support the system performance with low cost.

4. QUESTION:
   It appears to be system implementation problem. Is there a particular focus area ( Say for example algorithm development for the warning system or choosing the appropriate sensors) that should be emphasized over others( problems that have already been solved)?

   ANSWER:
   There are several areas that need to be emphasized. Since this project will implement a new concept of operations, many issues need to be addressed; the significant ones include the multiple warning lights (with or w/o signs), wireless or wire communication, and detection. Making full use of existing research results and practical results is necessary and is a plus in bidder selection.

082-FH2    Origin-Destination - Travel Time Measurement and Characterization

1. QUESTION:
   We just came across the attached patent in our patent search. These SBIR proposals are new ground for me, but it seems the technology/approach envisioned in the RFP for 082-FH2 Origin-Destination - Travel Time Measurement and Characterization has already been patented. There are a variety of ways we could proceed, but need some guidance:

   • Submit a proposal and state we would look into licensing issues after award (not clear how to estimate licensing costs)?
   • Attempt to contact inventor prior to submission and negotiate a licensing agreement for inclusion in the proposal.
   • Involve an attorney prior to submission to articulate why we think this patent does not apply.
   Could you give us some guidance on how we should proceed?

   ANSWER:
   The solicitation, Section V. Considerations, Part D, Innovations, Inventions and Patents on page 9 explains how Patents are created from the evaluation process, through contract award, to post contract completion. A patent should be considered "Proprietary information" and directions on how to protect proprietary information is included in Part D.

   The solicitation has been extended until October 3, 2008.