Bibliographies Biomimetics ADM002128, Spring 2009

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ADA488028
Future Directions for Structural Mechanics - Fundamental Research Issue
Personal Author(s): Weisshaar, Terrence A
Report Date: 31 Aug 2008
Media Count: 36   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *AIRCRAFT, *SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, *TECHNOLOGY FORECASTING, *SPACE SYSTEMS, AEROELASTICITY, BIONICS, BIOMIMETICS, STRUCTURAL MECHANICS, OPTIMIZATION, ROBOTICS, ALGORITHMS, MATERIALS
Identifiers: (U) *FUTURE SPACE SYSTEMS, *ADVANCED MATERIALS, AEROSPACE RESEARCH, BIO-INSPIRED FLIGHT, *FLIGHT STRUCTURES
Abstract: (U) This effort had two goals: 1) to identify emerging research and development areas in the areas of flight structures and materials systems important to the future of the U.S. Air Force; and, 2) to define "Grand Challenges" that, if pursued, will provide future basic research programs that support Flight Structures development for the next half-century. Several distinct areas of research have been identified; we developed an identification process that we recommend be used for the future efforts. These research areas and the procedure are described within the report.

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ADA485283
Miniature Brain Decision Making in Complex Visual Environments
Personal Author(s): Dyer, Adrian
Report Date: 18 Jul 2008
Media Count: 13   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *HYMENOPTERA, *VISUAL PERCEPTION, *ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY, CELLULAR COMMUNICATIONS, ARTHROPODA, EYE, BRAIN, DECISION MAKING, AUSTRALIA
Identifiers: (U) SIGNAL DETECTION, BIOMIMETIC COMPUTING, FACE RECOGNITION, HIGH LEVEL TASK PERFORMANCE, COMPOUND EYES, IMAGE INTERPOLATION, ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL RECORDINGS, COLONY COLLAPSE DISORDER, HONEYBEES, MINIATURE BRAINS, FOREIGN REPORTS
Abstract: (U) The grantee investigated, using the honeybee (Apis mellifera) as a model, how decisions are learnt in complex visual environments. In particular, the grantee investigated the problem of face invariance to understand the role that experience with stimuli can play in permitting a brain to learn how to reliably recognize target stimuli independent of factors including angle of view and contrast variability. The grantee also investigated how signal detection theory (SDT) can be used to model complex behaviors in bees.

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ADA483597
Characterization of the MEMS Directional Sound Sensor Fabricated Using the SOIMUMPS Process
Personal Author(s): Dritsas, Antonios
Report Date: Jun 2008
Media Count: 113   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS, *ACOUSTIC DETECTORS, FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS, THESES, MICROPHONES, DIRECTIONAL, BIOMIMETICS, UNDERSEA WARFARE, VIBRATION, AMPLITUDE
Abstract: (U) A micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) based directional sound sensor performance is characterized. The operation of directional sound sensor is based on the hearing organ of Ormia ochracea fly, which uses coupled bars hinged at the center to achieve the directional sound sensing. The MEMS sensor design considered in this thesis is fabricated using a process by which the sensor has two resonant vibrational modes: rocking and bending. The sensor is simulated using finite element analysis and tested by actuating the sensor using a sound stimulus. An analysis is undertaken to describe, in mathematical terms, the relationship between the sensor's amplitude of vibration and various parameters such as the angle of incidence, frequency and the intensity of sound. The experimentally-observed vibrational frequencies are found to be in good agreement with the simulated data, which supports the use of the simulation in future sensor development. The observed amplitudes of vibration are significantly greater than those of sensors fabricated with the process used in previous studies. The relationship between the amplitude of vibration and the incident angle are found to agree with the theoretical predictions. The results indicate that it is possible to fabricate miniature sound sensors that mimic the fly's hearing system.

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ADA482361
Insect Flight: Computation and Biomimetic Design
Personal Author(s): Wang, Z J
Report Date: 31 May 2008
Media Count: 8   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *BIOMIMETICS, *WINGED INSECTS, *FLIGHT, *UNSTEADY AERODYNAMICS, FLUTTER, COMPUTATIONS, TUMBLING
Identifiers: (U) *FLAPPING FLIGHT, DRAGONFLIES, FLAPPING WINGS
Abstract: (U) Our research has focused on understanding fundamental mechanisms of unsteady aerodynamics in flapping flight. In particular we have focused on dragonfly flight and passive flight of fluttering and tumbling plates in fluid. We use computations, theoretical analyses, and tabletop experiments to unravel the essential mechanisms in these systems. They have yielded new insights into the unsteady aerodynamics and energetics of flapping flight. These new insights offer lessons on designs of efficient small scale flapping wing flight.

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ADA480692
Biomimetic Approach to Solar Cells Based on TiO2 Nanotubes
Personal Author(s): Allen, Jan L; Lee, Ivan C; Wolfenstine, Jeff
Report Date: Apr 2008
Media Count: 16   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *PACKING DENSITY, *TITANIUM DIOXIDE, *BIOMIMETICS, EFFICIENCY, PHOTOVOLTAIC EFFECT, SENSITIZING, NANOTECHNOLOGY, PHOTOELECTRIC EFFECT, TITANIUM OXIDES, SOLAR CELLS, DYES
Identifiers: (U) *NANOTUBES
Abstract: (U) The goal of this research was to explore the use of nanotube titanium dioxide (TiO2) as an electrode material in dye-sensitized solar cells in order to further the development of solar cell technology. TiO2 nanotubes were successfully synthesized by hydrothermal methods, working solar cells were constructed, and comparisons were made between nanospherical TiO2 and nanotubular TiO2. The results showed an increase in the maximum photocurrent density, Jsc, at the expense of a lowered fill factor that led to a lowered cell efficiency. It is suggested that improvements can be realized by the use of aligned TiO2 nanotubes in order to enable a higher packing density of the nanotubes that would lead to a higher photocurrent density per square centimeter, thereby converting a portion of the incoming solar energy into electrical energy.

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ADA478940
Biomimetic Micro Air Vehicle Testing Development and Small Scale Flapping-Wing Analysis
Personal Author(s): Svanberg, Craig E
Report Date: Mar 2008
Media Count: 114   Page(s)
Descriptors:(U) *DRONES, *BIOMIMETICS, VELOCITY, CONTROL, MEASUREMENT, PITCH(INCLINATION), WINGS, POLYETHYLENE TEREPHTHALATE, HIGH SPEED CAMERAS, CARBON FIBERS, POLYMERIC FILMS, DYNAMIC LOADS, GAS BEARINGS
Identifiers: (U) *FLAPPING-WING, *MICRO AIR VEHICLE, MAV(MICRO AIR VEHICLE)
Abstract: (U) The purpose of this research was to develop testing methods capable of analyzing the performance of a miniature flapping-wing mechanism that can later be adapted for the development a biomimetic flapping-wing micro air vehicle (MAV). Three small scale flapping mechanisms capable of single plane flapping, flapping with active pitch control, and flapping/pitch with out-of-plane movement were designed using SolidWorks. The flapping-only model was fabricated on an Objet 3-dimensional printer and miscellaneous parts. The flapping mechanism was mounted on a supported by air bearings, and thrust was measured for a variety of conditions. The testing was conducted using wings composed of carbon fiber and Mylar in four different size configurations, with flapping speeds ranging from 3.5 - 15 Hertz. The thrust was measured using an axially mounted 50 gram load cell which resulted in an accuracy of +/- 0.1 gram. The flapping mechanism was then mounted on a 6-component force balance to measure dynamic loading, which demonstrated the ability to gather time-accurate data within a single flapping stroke at speeds as high as 15 Hz. High speed cameras were also used for capturing images of how the structure of the wing changed at various testing conditions. Overall this research successfully demonstrated testing procedures that can be utilized in developing small scale flapping-wing micro air vehicles.

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ADA482370
Application of Chiral Cellular Structures for the Design of Innovative Structural Assemblies
Personal Author(s): Ruzzene, Massimo
Report Date: 14 Feb 2008
Media Count: 22   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *CELL STRUCTURE, *HONEYCOMB STRUCTURES, AIRFOILS, BIOMIMETICS, SANDWICH PANELS, DISPLACEMENT REACTIONS, MORPHOLOGY, SHEAR MODULUS
Identifiers: (U) CHIRAL MATERIALS, STRUCTURAL DYNAMICS, PE611102
Abstract: (U) The objective of the project is to investigate the potential of cellular structures for the design of structural components with superior, new and multifunctional characteristics. In particular, the project focuses on a new topology, the chiral topology, which provides the cellular assembly with unique mechanical properties which include a negative in-plane Poisson's ratio, a correspondingly high shear modulus, high displacement capabilities in the elastic range of the material, and large design flexibility, whereby properties and behavior of the assembly can be significantly altered through variations in its characteristic geometric parameters. The applications that have so far been considered include sandwich panels with honeycomb core, and truss-core airfoils, and acoustic band gap materials. Advantages with respect to current designs, and multi-functionality are particularly investigated.

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ADD020322
Olivo-Cerebellar Controller
Personal Author(s): Bandyopadhyay, Promode R
Report Date: 29 Jan 2008
Media Count: 83   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *ROBOTICS, *CONTROL SYSTEMS, *UNDERWATER VEHICLES, *BIOMIMETICS, ALGORITHMS, PATENT APPLICATIONS, INPUT OUTPUT PROCESSING, NONLINEAR SYSTEMS, FEEDBACK, SYNCHRONISM, NEUROLOGY, CLOSED LOOP SYSTEMS
Identifiers: (U) *INFERIOR OLIVES, CONTROL LAWS, *NEURO-MIMETIC CONTROLS SYSTEMS, *BAUV(BIOROBOTIC AUTONOMOUS UNDERSEA VEHICLE)
Abstract: (U) It is the general purpose and primary object of the present invention to provide control laws for the synchronization and phase angle control of multiple inferior olives (IO) used in a maneuvering controller or control system of an underwater vehicle. In order to attain the objects described, the present invention provides closed-loop control of multiple inferior olives (IOs) for maneuvering a Biorobotic Autonomous Undersea Vehicle (BAUV). A model is described where variables are associated with sub-threshold oscillations and low threshold spiking. Higher threshold spiking is also described.

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ADA476610
Biocompatible and Biomimetic Self Assembly of Functional Nanostructures
Personal Author(s): Brinker, Jeffrey
Report Date: 17 Jan 2008
Media Count: 22   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *MEDICAL RESEARCH, *CELLS(BIOLOGY), *BIOMEDICINE, *NANOSTRUCTURES, STRESSES, POLYMERS, DISEASES, TOPOLOGY, PATTERNS, ACCESS, GELS, BIOMIMETICS, FLUIDICS, CYTOLOGY, INORGANIC MATERIALS, COLLECTION, COLLOIDS, THERAPY, RESTRAINT, WOUNDS AND INJURIES, BEHAVIOR, RESPONSE(BIOLOGY), ASSEMBLY
Identifiers: (U) *NANO-TO-MICROSCALE STRUCTURES
Abstract: (U) Immobilization of individual cells and collections of cells in well defined reproducible nano-to-microscale structures that allow structural and functional manipulation and interrogation is important for developing new classes of biotic/abiotic materials for establishing the relationship between genotype and phenotype and for elucidating responses to disease injury/stress or therapy - primary goals of biomedical research Although there has been considerable recent progress in investigating the response of cells to chemical or topological patterns defined lithographically on two-dimensional (2D) surfaces it is time to advance from 2D adhesion on dishes/fluidic devices to 3D architectures that better represent the natural nanoporous and 3D extracellular matrix (EGM) 3D immobilization in nanostructured hosts enables cells to be surrounded by other cells maintains fluidic connectivity/accessibility and allows development of 3D molecular or chemical gradients that provide an instructive background to guide cellular behavior Although 3D cell immobilization in polymers hydrogels and inorganic gels has been practiced for decades these approaches do not provide for bio/nano interfaces with 3D spatial control of topology and composition important to both the maintenance of natural cellular behavior patterns and the development of new non-native behaviors and functions. In particular for ALL previously reported approaches there was no apparent effect of the cell on the surrounding host nor any apparent means to purposefully use the nanostructured host to develop new cellular behaviors. Here we show that cell directed assembly (GDA) to be a unique distinguishing approach to prepare new bio/nano interfaces and to develop new cellular behaviors.

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ADA488359
Biomineralized 3-D Nanoparticle Assemblies with Micro-to-Nanoscale Features and Tailored Chemistries
Personal Author(s): Sandhage, Ken H; Lewis, Jennifer A
Report Date: 07 Jan 2008
Media Count: 30   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *PARTICLES, *THREE DIMENSIONAL, *SILICON DIOXIDE, *NANOSTRUCTURES, BIOMIMETICS, PRECIOUS METALS, ELECTROLESS PLATING, MORPHOLOGY, OXIDES
Identifiers: (U) *SILICA, NANOPARTICLES, NANOSCALES
Abstract:(U) This collaborative research project has focused on the integrated use of robust biomimetic or biological silica assembly processes with shape-preserving chemical conversion reactions to produce freestanding 3-D structures with selectable microscale morphologies, nanoscale features, and tailored, non-silica chemistries. Biomimetic 3-D silica structures have been synthesized through Direct-Write Assembly using polyamine-based inks, followed by templated conformal silicification. With proper selection of ink composition and silicification conditions, robust silica structures were formed that retained the patterned morphology after firing to 1000 C. Such 3-D biomimetic silica and biological silica (diatom frustule) structures were converted into freestanding 3-D silica-free replicas comprised of other oxides or metals through the use of gas/solid reactions. For example, these 3-D silica structures were converted into high surface area, microporous Si replicas through reaction with Mg gas (to yield MgO and Si products) and then selective MgO dissolution. Such Si replicas have, in turn, been converted into noble metal replicas through electroless deposition and selective Si dissolution. The reaction kinetics and micro/nanostructural evolution during such reactions have been examined.

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ADA476092
Bio-Inspired Organic/Inorganic Hybrid Electronic and Photonic Materials and Structures
Personal Author(s): Jen, Alex K-Y; Sarikaya, Mehmet; Ginger, David
Report Date:31 Dec 2007
Media Count: 10   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *PEPTIDES, *PHOTONICS, *MOLECULAR ELECTRONICS, *GENETIC ENGINEERING, *BIOMIMETICS, *QUANTUM DOTS, *NANOTECHNOLOGY, FLUORESCENCE, LITHOGRAPHY, RAMAN SCATTERING, NANOSTRUCTURES, PHOTONS, PLASMONS, ATTACHMENT, HYBRID SYSTEMS, TEMPLATES, DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACIDS, PROTEINS
Identifiers: (U) *POLYPEPTIDES, *NANOPARTICLES, MATERIALS ENGINEERING, ELECTRONIC MATERIALS, SERS(SURFACE ENHANCED RAMAN SCATTERING), GEPIS(ENGINEERED SURFACE BINDING POLYPEPTIDES), METAL SURFACES, ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT, PHOTONIC DEVICES, PHOTONIC MATERIALS
Abstract: (U) The goal of this project was to use DNA and protein as templates to assemble nanoparticles and functional molecules for photonic and electronic applications such as plasmon-enhanced fluorescence and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) (Fig. 1). Towards this goal, we have utilized both genetic and materials engineering tools. We have followed the molecular biomimetic approach in the assembly of nanoparticles. We have developed protocols using involving biological attachment of nanoparticles and quantum dots onto engineered surface-binding polypeptides (GEPI), and have used directed assembly of nanoparticles and/or functional molecular units.

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ADA478688
Biological Inspiration for Agile Autonomous Air Vehicles
Personal Author(s): Evers, Johnny H
Report Date: 01 Nov 2007
Media Count: 15   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *FLIGHT, *DRONES, *BIONICS, SYMPOSIA, BIRDS, WINGED INSECTS, BIOMIMETICS, BATS, SENSES(PHYSIOLOGY), SELF OPERATION, GUIDANCE
Identifiers: (U) *BIOLOGICAL FLIGHT, *MAV(MICRO AIR VEHICLES), *AGILE AUTONOMY, UAV(UNMANNED AIR VEHICLES), SUAV(SMALL UAV), BIOLOGICAL SYSTEMS, NATO FURNISHED, COMPONENT REPORTS, FLYING INSECTS
Abstract: (U) The ease with which flying insects, birds and bats negotiate confined, obstacle-cluttered airspace has long inspired us with visions of human-designed aerial machines with similar performance. Flying animals exhibit capabilities for aerial acrobatics, insensitivity to wind gusts, avoiding collision with or intercepting fixed and moving objects, landing and take off from small perches, and numerous other feats of flight agility that are beyond those of human-engineered vehicles. Although we are naturally tempted to look to biological organisms for inspiration or as design templates, the performance of the resulting bio-inspired or biomimetic engineered devices rarely approaches that of the living organisms. Among several possible reasons for this, two important issues motivate and provide a focus for this paper: it is nearly impossible to correlate biological processes with engineering design principles; biological systems possess sensing-computation-actuation response architectures and processes that appear to differ from those of engineered systems in fundamental ways, those differences are poorly understood and their importance little appreciated. These issues provide rich opportunities for research to produce genuine advancements in our understanding of biological and artificial autonomy. The research will necessarily involve biologists, engineers, and mathematicians. As with any research endeavor involving multiple mature disciplines, long term research collaborations are necessary for establishing the foundation of fundamentally new science. Unfortunately, without an objective understanding of these two issues and their implications for guiding autonomous air vehicle research and development, the real promise for biology-inspired or biomimetic concepts to achieve breakthroughs in vehicle capabilities may remain an elusive dream.

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ADA474727
A MURI Center for Intelligent Biomimetic Image Processing and Classification
Personal Author(s):Grossberg, Stephen
Report Date: Nov 2007
Media Count:36   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *IMAGE PROCESSING, *BIOMIMETICS, DATA BASES, NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE, BRAIN, TRACKING, NIGHT VISION, SYNTHETIC APERTURE RADAR, TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER, DETECTORS, MATHEMATICAL MODELS
Identifiers: (U) *NEUROMORPHIC CIRCUITS
Abstract: (U) Senior faculty coordinate small teams of faculty/student researchers on projects to develop the unified SMartVlSlON system. Biological modeling projects --discover fundamental organizational principles and mechanisms that enable the brain to adapt in real-time to unexpected environmental challenges, translate them into mathematical models, and use the models to quantitatively simulate large brain and behavioral data bases about vision, object recognition, and tracking. These models have introduced two revolutionary new paradigms into intelligent computing, Laminar Computing and Complementary Computing, whose impact will be increasingly felt during the next several decades. A linkage between brain and behavior is necessary for technology transfer, because brain mechanisms say how it works, and behavioral functions say what it is for. Moreover, models that can adapt autonomously in real time to a changing world are of great importance in solving outstanding technological problems. That is why, on the technological side, brain/behavior models from BU have been used and further developed by a number of companies, hospitals, and national labs to process data from artificial sensors such as synthetic aperture radar, laser radar, multispectral infrared, night vision, nuclear magnetic resonance, and high altitude photography for large-scale applications to DoD applications and technology.

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ADA473229
Applications of Nanotechnology in Biomimetics and Quantum Computing
Personal Author(s): Mou, Chung-Yuan
Report Date: 23 Oct 2007
Media Count: 4   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *ELECTRON PARAMAGNETIC RESONANCE, *QUANTUM COMPUTING, MAGNETIC FIELDS, POLARIZATION, STABILITY, NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOMIMETICS, OPTICAL PUMPING, EXCITATION, ENZYMES
Identifiers: (U) *BIOCATALYSIS, MESOPOROUS SILICA
Abstract:(U) The application of pulsed electron paramagnetic resonance "EPR" technique is used in quantum computing. Polarized electron spin created in the photo-excitation of organic molecules is used as the basis of quantum bit. The quantum coherence and superposition effects of the polarized electron spin at the level anti-crossing "LAC" region under the influence of an external magnetic field and microwave pulses is examined. Highly polarized state is present only during the preparation of quantum states in the photo-excitation. Future work should focus on nuclear polarization enhancement by optical pumping in the LAC region.

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ADA472798
Face Recognition and Processing in a Mini Brain
Personal Author(s): Dyer, Adrian
Report Date: 28 Sep 2007
Media Count: 7   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *BRAIN, *NERVE CELLS, *FACE(ANATOMY), HUMANS, INFANTS, HYMENOPTERA, ANIMALS, AUSTRALIA, MINIATURIZATION
Identifiers: (U) *FACE RECOGNITION, BIOMIMETICS, BIO-APPLICATIONS, FOREIGN REPORTS
Abstract: (U) This report covers a 1 year project which evaluated the specific mechanisms that a miniature brain containing less than 1 million neurons "in animal model of the honeybee" uses to learn and subsequently recognize human faces. There were four specific aims "detailed below" to the project, and all of these have been met. The bee brain shows some similarities to newborn human infants in the way in which faces are learnt, and bees appear to bind available information into a configural representation of a face.

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ADA473635
Multi-Camera, High-Speed Imaging System for Kinematics Data Collection
Personal Author(s): Geder, Jasonl; Sandberg, William C; Ramamurti, Ravi
Report Date: 21 Sep 2007
Media Count: 14   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *KINEMATICS, *COMPUTATIONAL FLUID DYNAMICS, *CAMERAS, *MULTIPLE OPERATION, *BIOMIMETICS, *HYDRAULIC SERVOMECHANISMS, IMAGE PROCESSING, SIMULATION, GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE, CALIBRATION, HYDRODYNAMICS, UNMANNED, THREE DIMENSIONAL, UNDERWATER VEHICLES, TWO DIMENSIONAL
Abstract: (U) A two-camera system was devised and created to determine the kinematics of flapping fin and flapping wing vehicles. Each camera is set up to capture triggered, high-speed (up to 10,000 frames per second) images of the appendage in a test environment. Using direct linear transforms, each camera is calibrated to convert image coordinates to an alternate coordinate system. Points of interest on the appendage are selected from each camera image at matching times throughout multiple flapping cycles and converted from sets of two two-dimensional coordinates to single three-dimensional coordinates. These three-dimensional coordinates are then compared with desired kinematics and necessary changes are made to improve the performance of the appendage. Kinematics comparisons are supplemented with force comparisons as experimental force measurements are compared with force calculations made using computational fluid dynamics simulations.

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ADA487999
Biofouling and Design of a Biomimetic Hull-Grooming Tool
Personal Author(s): Kohli, Nikita
Report Date: 14 Sep 2007
Media Count: 38   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *ANTIFOULING, *BRUSHES, *FOULING ORGANISMS, *SHIP HULLS, *BIOMIMETICS, POLYMERS, TOOLS, NAVAL VESSELS, REMOVAL, CLEANING
Identifiers: (U) *HULL GROOMING, *BIOFOULING
Abstract: (U) Biofouling, the accumulation of biological detritus on a hard substrate, has plagued the United Navy. Fouling causes increased hydrodynamic drag, resulting in increased fuel consumption and decreased speed and range. The purpose of this investigation was to research the formation of fouling, mechanisms of prevention, and tools for its removal. The Navy currently uses a copper-based antifouling coating that releases copper into the water, killing the fouling organisms. There is new research in biomimetic polymers that deter fouling, but are non-toxic. These polymers are rigidly attached to the hull surface extending their lifetime. Removal mechanisms have included water jets and abrasive brushes, yet no tool has concentrated on grooming the hull to remove the initial layer of microfouling. Removing the initial layer will deter the development of macrofouling, such as barnacles, which are more difficult to remove. The mechanisms that marine animals use to de-foul themselves were also examined and several concepts for a biomimetic hull-grooming tool were developed. These tools include novel brush designs; in addition, ultraviolet light was explored as another tool to remove microfouling.

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ADA471255
Entrapment of Enzymes and Carbon Nanotubes in Biologically Synthesized Silica: Glucose Oxidase-catalyzed Direct Electron Transfer, Preprint
Personal Author(s): Invitski, Dmitri; Artyuskova, Kateryna; Rincon, Rosalba A; Atanassov, Plamen; Luckarift, Heather R; Johnson, Glenn R
Report Date: Aug 2007
Media Count: 24   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *ENZYMES, *ELECTRON TRANSFER, *CARBON NANOTUBES, *BIOMIMETICS, ELECTROCHEMISTRY, VOLTAMMETRY, GLUCOSE, ELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY, OXIDATION, ELECTRODES
Identifiers: (U) *DIRECT ELECTRON TRANSFER, SILICA-IMMOBILIZATION, X-RAY PHOTOELECTRON SPECTROSCOPY, BIODETECTORS, BIOFUEL CELLS, PE62102F, WUAFRL4915L2
Abstract: (U) This work demonstrates a new approach for building bio-inorganic interfaces by integrating biomimetically-derived silica with single-walled carbon nanotubes to create a conductive matrix for immobilization of enzymes. Such a strategy not only allows simple integration into bio-devices but presents an opportunity to intimately interface an enzyme and manifest direct electron transfer features. Biologically-templated silica/carbon nanotube/enzyme composites were evaluated electrochemically and characterized by means of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Voltammetry of the composites displayed stable oxidation and reduction peaks at an optimal potential close to that of the FAC/FADS(sub 2) cofactor of immobilized glucose oxidase. The immobilization stabilized enzyme activity for a period of one month and retained catalytic activity towards the oxidation of glucose. It was demonstrated that the resulting composite can be successfully integrated into functional bio-electrodes for biosensor and biofuel cell applications.

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ADA484745
Utilizing Biomimetic Image Processing to Detect the Road Edge of Off-Road Terrain
Personal Author(s): Truong, Nancy; Agassounon, William
Report Date: Jun 2007
Media Count: 11   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *BIOMIMETICS, *NEUROBIOLOGY, *IMAGE PROCESSING, *WARNING SYSTEMS, *EDGES, *DETECTION, SCANNERS, ROADS, INFRARED CAMERAS, MILITARY VEHICLES, SYMPOSIA, ALGORITHMS, TERRAIN
Identifiers: (U) *ROAD EDGE DETECTION, *ROLLOVER THREAT DETECTION, ROLLOVER, IMAGE PROCESSING ALGORITHMS, INSECT VISION APPLICATIONS, DVE(DRIVER VISION ENHANCER), FLY VISION, LASER SCANNERS, LWIR(LONG WAVELENGTH INFRARED), OFF ROAD TERRAIN, VIDEO CAMERAS
Abstract: (U) Soldiers incurred injuries or even lost their lives due to rollovers while driving military vehicles. A recent report identified that the one cause of rollovers is the driver's inability to assess rollover threats, such as a cliff, soft ground, water, or a culvert on the passenger side of the vehicle, due to the vehicle's width. To reduce the number of rollover accidents, a road-edge detection and driver warning system is being developed to detect the rollover threats on the passenger side of the vehicle and warn the driver. This system utilizes a unique, ultra-fast image processing algorithm based on the neurobiology of insect vision and the study of fly vision. The system consists of a camera system, a long-range, planar laser scanner, a processing module in which a biomimetic image processor detects edges present in the images in real-time, and a Driver Vision Enhancer (DVE) which displays the current road image, detected boundaries, and road side terrain steepness.

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ADA481868
Synthetic Biomimetic Fluorophores for Micro/Nanosensor
Personal Author(s): Smith, C B; Anderson, J E, Gillevet, P M
Report Date: 01 Nov 2006
Media Count: 9   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *REMOTE DETECTORS, *OPTICAL SWITCHING, *BIOMIMETICS, SIGNALS, FLUORESCENT DYES, CLONES, CORAL, MATERIALS, SYMPOSIA, STABILITY
Identifiers: (U) *FLUOROPHORES, GREEN FLUORESCENT PROTEINS
Abstract: (U) Proteins common in nature provide a rich source of potential fluorophores that can be used as taggent materials. Many of these fluorophores have been demonstrated to be effective molecular probes (e.g., green fluorescent protein (GFP)). The objective of this research is to find, isolate, sequence, and synthetically produce (from a natural source) synthetic fluorophores extracted from reef coral or rcGFP. From this investigation we discovered two novel clones with unique sequences for rcGFP and rcCFP. This research provided a better understanding of rcGFP's suitability for incorporation into micro or nano-sensory devices. Once synthetically created, these fluorophores are meant for design as triggering and signaling devices. These optical switches will possess far greater environmental stability and survivability than their natural analogs. Micro and nano-sensory devices are envisioned as helping the soldier to better understand the battlespace environment by providing remotely sensed, geospatial awareness.

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ADA481664
Function-Oriented Material Design for Innovative Composite Structures Against Land Explosives
Personal Author(s): Ma, Zheng-Dong; Jiang, Dongying; Liu, Yuanyuan; Raju, Basavaraju; Bryzik, Walter
Report Date: Nov 2006
Media Count: 9   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE, *BLAST, *COMPOSITE MATERIALS, *SIMULATION, EXPLOSIVES, LAND MINES, COMPOSITE STRUCTURES, SYMPOSIA, INTEGRATED SYSTEMS, METHODOLOGY, MILITARY VEHICLES
Identifiers: (U) FOMD-BLAST SOFTWARE, FOMD(FUNCTION-ORIENTED MATERIAL DESIGN), BTR(BIOMIMETIC TENDON-REINFORCED)
Abstract: (U) The objective of this research is to develop an advanced design methodology for innovative composite structure concepts which can be used in the Army's future ground vehicle systems (FCS, FTTS, LTV) to protect vehicle and occupants against various explosives, including landmines. A multi-level and multi-scenario blast simulation and design system is being developed, which integrates three major technologies: a newly developed landmine-soil-composite interaction model; an advanced design methodology called Function-Oriented Material Design (FOMD); and a novel patent pending composite material concept called BTR (Biomimetic Tendon-Reinforced) material. A novel blast-protective composite structure (BTR-Bl) is being developed with the new design tool, which can be fabricated and tested against land explosives for use in military vehicles

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ADA481787
Tailoring of Nano- and Microstructure in Biomimetically Synthesized Ceramic Films
Personal Author(s): Zhang, Guangneng; Cho, Junghyun
Report Date: Nov 2006
Media Count: 9   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *DEPOSITION, *ZIRCONIUM OXIDES, *TITANIUM DIOXIDE, *CERAMIC MATERIALS, *THIN FILMS, SELF ASSEMBLED MONOLAYERS, SILICON, NANOSTRUCTURES, SUBSTRATES, BIOMIMETICS, SYMPOSIA, MICROSTRUCTURE
Identifiers: (U) *CERAMIC FILMS, COMPONENT REPORTS
Abstract: (U) A novel ceramic thin film deposition approach through which inorganic materials were deposited on a functionalized organic matrix from aqueous media at low temperatures was studied. This process is analogous to the natural biomineralization process. Specifically, nanostructured ZrO2 and TiO2 thin films were deposited at about 70 C by the hydrolysis of Zr(SO4)2 and TiCl4 aqueous precursor solutions, respectively, on silicon substrates coated with phosphonate-terminated self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). The as-deposited oxide films consisted of nanocrystallites of tetragonal ZrO2 and anatase phase TiO2 in size of 5-10 nm, while some amorphous phases existed as well. The principal mechanism for the formation of the films seems to be homogeneous nucleation of the bulk precipitates and their aggregation behavior in supersaturated solution. Different from the previous results, the ZrO2 and TiO2 films could also be deposited on bare silicon substrates without any SAMs, under the same conditions used for deposition on SAMs.

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ADA481460
Utilizing Biomimetic Image Processing to Rapidly Detect Rollover Threats
Personal Author(s): Truong, Nancy; Agassounon, William
Report Date: Nov 2006
Media Count: 7   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *IMAGE PROCESSING, *OPTICAL DETECTION, *BIOMIMETICS, ALGORITHMS, ARMY PERSONNEL, TERRAIN, WARNING SYSTEMS, NEUROBIOLOGY, INFRARED RADIATION, MILITARY VEHICLES, REAL TIME, SYMPOSIA
Identifiers: (U) DVE(DRIVER'S VISION ENHANCER), *VEHICLE ROLLOVERS, HMMWV(HIGH-MOBILITY MULTIPURPOSE WHEELED VEHICLE)
Abstract: (U) Rollover incidents of military vehicles have resulted in soldiers incurring injuries or losing their lives. A recent report identified that one cause of vehicle rollovers is the driver's inability to assess rollover threat, such as a cliff, soft ground, water, or culvert on the passenger side of the vehicle. The vehicle's width hinders the driver's field of view. To reduce the number of military vehicles rolling over, a road edge detection and driver warning system is being developed to warn the driver of potential rollover threats and keep the driver from veering off the side of the road. This system utilizes a unique, ultra-fast, image-processing algorithm based on the neurobiology of insect vision, specifically fly vision. The system consists of a Long-Wavelength Infrared (LWIR) camera and monochrome video camera system, a long-range laser scanner, a processing module in which a biomimetic image processor detects road edges in real-time, and a Driver's Vision Enhancer (DVE) which displays the road image, detected boundaries and road-side terrain steepness in real-time for the driver.

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ADA456915
The Development of an Environmentally Compliant, Multi-Functional Aerospace Coating Using Molecular- and Nano-Engineering Methods
Personal Author(s): Taylor, S R; Shiflet, G J; Scully, J R; Buchheit, R G; van; Ooij, W J; Sieradzki, K; Diaz, R E; Brinker, C J; Moran, A L
Report Date: 02 Oct 2006
Media Count: 135   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *CORROSION INHIBITION, *COATINGS, *ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, *AEROSPACE CRAFT, ALUMINUM ALLOYS, NANOTECHNOLOGY, SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH, SENSOR FUSION, BIOMIMETICS, MOLECULAR PROPERTIES, CRYSTALS, COLLOIDS, NAVAL RESEARCH
Identifiers: (U) CORROSION MITIGATION, COLLOIDAL CRYSTALS, ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE, MURI(MULTI-DISCIPLINARY UNIVERSITY RESEARCH INSTITUTE)
Abstract: (U) The coating system presently used on military aircraft is constrained in function (e.g., static color, low glint) and limited to the use of toxic, chromate-based compounds for the mitigation of corrosion. This report summarizes a MURI that was tasked to establish the scientific foundation for a military aerospace coating with expanded functionality and environmental compliance. By implementing advances in molecular and nano-engineered materials, an academic team has identified the enabling science for a multi-functional coating system with the ability to provide: (1) corrosion protection using environmentally compliant materials, (2) sensing of corrosion and mechanical damage of the aircraft skin, (3) mitigating responses to sensed chemical and physical damage, (4) color-on-demand, (5) optimal adhesion using environmentally compliant materials, (6) fatigue resistance and mechanical integrity of the fuselage, (7) self-cleaning and water rejection character. The enhanced functionality of this advanced coating system is achieved through the research and development of now tangible technologies. These components include: (1)a field-replaceable, nano-engineered aluminum alloy cladding, (2) new approaches for the identification, encapsulation, and intelligent delivery of environmentally compliant corrosion inhibitors for paint, (3) colloidal crystals, and photonic antenna for sensing and color-change-on-demand, (4) optimization of organic coating adhesion to the aluminum alloy substrate through the use of an environmentally compatible surface treatment, (5) development of self-assembled bio-mimetic surfaces for super-hydrophobicity. The research from this MURI has resulted in tangible coatings, coating additives, and technologies with very promising and realizable benefit to the Air Force mission.

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ADA459897
Simulation of Biomolecular Nanomechanical Systems
Personal Author(s): Chakraborty, Arup K; Majumdar, Arunava
Report Date: Oct 2006
Media Count: 34   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION, *DETECTORS, *BIOMOLECULES, *BIOMIMETICS, *BIOLOGICAL DETECTION, *MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS, COMPUTER PROGRAMS, MOLECULES, FABRICATION, RECEPTOR SITES(PHYSIOLOGY), PATHOGENIC MATERIALS, NANOTECHNOLOGY, MECHANICAL WAVES, FORCE(MECHANICS), T LYMPHOCYTES, PROTOTYPES, THEORY, PROBES, MECHANICAL PROPERTIES
Identifiers: (U) *BIOMOLECULAR NANOMECHANICAL SYSTEMS, *MICRODEVICES, *SYNTHETIC PATHOGEN DETECTORS, BIONEMS PROJECT, BINDING, CELL SIGNALING, COMPUTATIONAL TOOLS, MECHANICAL SIGNALS, PATHOGENS, SELF ASSEMBLY, PE61101E, WUAFRLE1170069
Abstract: (U) This report documents results from the BioNEMS project. Computer simulation methods and theoretical tools that can be applied to guide the design of microdevices relying on the concept of translating biomolecular binding to mechanical forces were developed. These computational tools were applied, in synergy with experiments, to define the important factors that determine device performance. One important result is that molecular-level self assembly of probe molecules determines microdevice performance, and this has had a big impact on the design of cantilever-based microdevices. These findings were used to establish design guidelines and utilized in the fabrication of a prototype device that is being transitioned in to a commercial product. Efforts to translate mechanical signals to electronic ones are also described in this context. New discoveries regarding how T lymphocytes of the immune system detect pathogens can be exploited to create synthetic pathogen detectors that exhibit extraordinary sensitivity and selectivity were examined. Computer simulations exploring T cell signaling were completed as part of this research.

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ADA459773
Compression and Instrumented Indentation Measurements on Biomimetic Polymers
Personal Author(s): Juliano, Thomas F; Moy, Paul; Weerasooriya, Tusit; VanLandingham, Mark R; Forster, Aaron M
Report Date: Sep 2006
Media Count: 14   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *POLYMERS, *MEASURING INSTRUMENTS, *GELS, *BIOMIMETICS, MEASUREMENT, METHODOLOGY, MECHANICAL PROPERTIES, RATES, THERMAL STABILITY, GELATINS, SHEAR TESTS, BALLISTICS, RESPONSE, STRAIN RATE, COPOLYMERS, BLOCK COPOLYMERS, TISSUES(BIOLOGY), IMPACT
Identifiers: (U) PE622105A
Abstract: (U) The mechanical response of living tissue is important to understanding the injury-risk associated with impact events. Unfortunately, currently used materials are not optimal surrogates and present several experimental challenges. Bulk measurement techniques, such as compression and shear tests, do not necessarily represent the type and rate of loading experienced in an actual impact event. Indentation testing may induce surface loading at stress states and strain rates not available to bulk measurement equipment. In this work, a ballistic gelatin and two styrene-isoprene triblock copolymer gels are tested and compared using both macro-scale and micro-scale measurements. A methodology is presented to conduct instrumented indentation experiments with a flat punch on materials with a modulus far below 1 MPa. The synthetic triblock copolymer gels are shown to be much easier to test than the ballistic gelatin. Compared to ballistic gelatin, both copolymer gels were found to have a greater degree of thermal stability. All of the materials exhibit strain-rate dependence, although the magnitude of dependence is a function of the loading rate and testing method.

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ADA473978
Biomimetics and the Application to Devices (Preprint)
Personal Author(s): Stone, Morley O
Report Date: Sep 2006
Media Count: 9   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *BIOMIMETICS, SYMPOSIA, ROBOTICS, POLYMERS, MACROMOLECULES, SOLID STATE CHEMISTRY, LIGHT EMITTING DIODES, CARBON NANOTUBES, DIATOMS
Identifiers: (U) SWNT(SINGLE-WALLED CARBON NANOTUBES), POLY(VINYL ALCOHOL), BRIDGING MATERIAL SYSTEMS, FERRITINS, PE62102F, WUAFRLM03R1000
Abstract: (U) At first glance, imitating nature via biomimetics seems to be a straightforward proposition. For example, if one is a roboticist, just add legs to the platform instead of wheels. Unfortunately, and as often the case, the devil is in the details. This short synopsis will cover biomimetic examples of material synthesis, sensing and robotics. This overview will attempt to capture some lessons learned, some surprising and unanticipated insights, and some of the potential pitfalls encountered along the way. For a more complete review, recent perspectives on combining biology with other disciplines have recently been published.

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ADA457036
Multiscale Mechanical Characterization of Biomimetic Physically Associating Gels
Personal Author(s): Juliano, Thomas F; Forster, Aaron M; Drzal, Peter L; Weerasooriya, Tusit; Moy, Paul; VanLandingham, Mark R
Report Date: Sep 2006
Media Count: 16   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *MECHANICAL PROPERTIES, *BLOCK COPOLYMERS, *BALLISTICS, TEST AND EVALUATION, STRAIN RATE, SYNTHETIC MATERIALS, COMPRESSIVE PROPERTIES, GELS, THERMAL STABILITY, METHODOLOGY
Identifiers: (U) FLAT PUNCH INDENTATION TESTING, PE622105
Abstract: (U) The mechanical response of living tissue is important to understanding the injury-risk associated with impact events. Often, ballistic gelatin or synthetic materials are developed to serve as tissue surrogates in mechanical testing. Unfortunately, current materials are not optimal and present several experimental challenges. Bulk measurement techniques, such as compression and shear testing geometries, do not fully represent the stress states and rate of loading experienced in an actual impact event. Indentation testing induces deviatoric stress states as well as strain rates not typically available to bulk measurement equipment. In this work, a ballistic gelatin and two styrene-isoprene triblock copolymer gels are tested and compared using both macroscale and microscale measurements. A methodology is presented to conduct instrumented indentation experiments on materials with a modulus far below 1 MPa. The synthetic triblock copolymer gels were much easier to test than the ballistic gelatin. Compared to ballistic gelatin, both copolymer gels were found to have a greater degree of thermal stability. All of the materials exhibit strain-rate dependence, although the magnitude of dependence was a function of the loading rate and testing method.

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ADA451648
A Biomimetic Algorithm for Flight Stabilization in Airborne Vehicles, Based on Dragonfly Ocellar Vision
Personal Author(s): Stange, Gert; van Kleef, Josh; Berry, Richard; Parker, Robert
Report Date: 27 Jul 2006
Media Count: 45   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *DRONE CONTROL AIRCRAFT, *BIOMIMETICS, STABILIZATION, ALGORITHMS, FLIGHT TESTING, ATTITUDE CONTROL SYSTEMS, AUTONOMOUS NAVIGATION, VISION, EYE, AUSTRALIA, LENSES, INSECTS, ATTITUDE(INCLINATION), CUES(STIMULI)
Identifiers: (U) *DRAGONFLY OCELLAR VISION, BIOMIMETICS, FLIGHT CONTROL, FOREIGN REPORTS, DRAGONFLY OCELLI
Abstract: (U) This report covers research done on dragonfly eyes focused on understanding how dragonflies process attitude information. By understanding the anatomy of the dragonfly occeli, it can be concluded that they are simple lens eyes designed for attitude stabilization.

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ADA453580
Bio-Inspired, Odor-Based Navigation
Personal Author(s): Porter, III, Maynard J
Report Date: Mar 2006
Media Count: 185   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *NAVIGATION, *LEPIDOPTERA, *ODORS, *BIOMIMETICS, ALGORITHMS, COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION, PHEROMONES, FUZZY LOGIC, PLUMES, DRONES, TRACKING, THESES
Identifiers: (U) *BIO-INSPIRED, PLUME TRACKING, ODOR-BASED NAVIGATION, UAV(UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES)
This document is not available from DTIC in microfiche.
Abstract: (U) The ability of moths to locate a member of the opposite sex, by tracking a wind-borne plume of odor molecules, is an amazing reality. Numerous scenarios exist where having this capability embedded into ground-based or aerial vehicles would be invaluable. The main crux of this thesis investigation is the development of a navigation algorithm which gives a UAV the ability to track a chemical plume to its source. Inspiration from the male moth's, in particular Manduca sexta, ability to successfully track a female's pheromone plume was used in the design of both 2-D and 3-D navigation algorithms. The algorithms were developed to guide autonomous vehicles to the source of a chemical plume. The algorithms were implemented using a variety of fuzzy controllers and ad hoc engineering approaches. The fuzzy controller was developed to estimate the location of a vehicle relative to the plume: coming into the plume, in the plume, exiting the plume, or out of the plume. The 2-D algorithm had a 60% to 90% success rate in reaching the source while certain versions of 3-D algorithm had success rates from 50% to 100%.

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ADA446909
A Monocular Vision Based Approach to Flocking
Personal Author(s): Kirchner, Brian P
Report Date: Mar 2006
Media Count: 81   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *VELOCITY, *ALGORITHMS, *ROBOTICS, *IMAGE PROCESSING, *DRONES, *BIONICS, *FORMATION FLIGHT, *CONTROL SYSTEMS, COMPUTER PROGRAMS, THESES, BEHAVIOR, BIOMIMETICS, TURNING FLIGHT, COLLISION AVOIDANCE, BIRDS, VECTOR SPACES, CAMERAS, ROBOTS, COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION, NEURAL NETS, LOW COSTS, POSITION(LOCATION)
Identifiers: (U) *FLOCKING, *MONOCULAR VISION, *UAV(UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES), SWARMING, CONTROL ALGORITHMS, VELOCITY VECTORS, VELOCITY UPDATE, AUTONOMOUS ROBOTS, VISUAL IMAGING, BIRD BEHAVIOR, P2-AT8 AIRCRAFT, COLOR EXTRACTION, FORMATION CONTROL
Abstract: (U) Flocking is seen in nature as a means for self protection, more efficient foraging, and other search behaviors. Although much research has been done regarding the application of this principle to autonomous vehicles, the majority of the research has relied on GPS information, broadcast communication, an omniscient central controller, or some other form of "global" knowledge. This approach, while effective, has serious drawbacks, especially regarding stealth, reliability, and biological grounding. This research effort uses three Pioneer P2-AT8 robots to achieve flocking behavior without the use of global knowledge. The sensory inputs are limited to two cameras, offset such that the area of stereo vision is minimal, thus making stereo image analysis techniques effectively impossible, but allowing a much larger effective field of vision. The flocking algorithm analyzes these images and updates each robot's velocity vector according to the relative position, heading, and speed of its nearest neighbor. The result of this velocity update is an eventual stabilization of speed and heading, resulting in a coherent, stable flock, demonstrated in both software simulation and in hardware.

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ADA444868
Rapid, Room-Temperature Synthesis of Anti-Bacterial Bio-Nano-Composites of Lysozyme With Amorphous Silica or Titania
Personal Author(s):Luckarift, Heather R;Dickerson, Matthew B; Sandhage, Kenneth H; Spain, Jim C
Report Date: 21 Feb 2006
Media Count: 18   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *MURAMIDASE, *ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS, SYNTHESIS, SILICON DIOXIDE, BACTERIA, PROTEINS, AMORPHOUS MATERIALS, ROOM TEMPERATURE, ANTIFOULING COATINGS
Identifiers: (U) BIOMIMETIC SYNTHESIS, BIOMINERALIZATION, ENZYME IMMOBILIZATION, LYSOZYME, NANOMATERIALS, PE62102F, WU4915L262
Abstract: (U) Lysozyme directs the formation of silica or titania nanoparticles under ambient conditions and is simultaneously entrapped while in the active bactericidal form. The ability to encapsulate an active antimicrobial protein within inorganic nanoparticles provides an opportunity to create bionanocomposite materials that resist bacterial activity, for use as broad spectrum antifouling materials.

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ADA479212
Biomimetic Design of an Under-Actuated Leg Exoskeleton for Load-Carrying Augmentation
Personal Author(s): Walsh, Conor J
Report Date: Feb 2006
Media Count: 97   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *PAYLOAD, *WALKING, *METABOLISM, *REDUCTION, *BIOMECHANICS, *EXOSKELETON, *LEGS, KINEMATICS, DAMPING, KINETICS, BODY WEIGHT, BACKPACKS, KNEE(ANATOMY), BIOENGINEERING, JOINTS, SPRINGS, HIP, ENERGY STORAGE, ACTUATORS, THESES, PASSIVE SYSTEMS, HUMANS, EXPERIMENTAL DATA
Identifiers: (U) *LEG EXOSKELETONS, *METABOLIC COSTS, *LOAD CARRYING, ELASTIC ENERGY STORAGE, VARIABLE DAMPING, ANKLE SPRINGS, KNEE DAMPERS, PAYLOAD TRANSFER, BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING, HIP ACTUATORS
Abstract: (U) Metabolic studies have shown that there is a metabolic cost associated with carrying a load. Previous work on exoskeleton design has not considered the passive dynamics of walking and has focused on fully actuated systems that are inefficient and heavy. In this thesis, an underactuated exoskeleton is presented that runs parallel to the human leg. The exoskeleton component design is based on the kinematics and kinetics of human walking. The joint components of the exoskeleton in the sagittal plane consist of a force-controllable actuator at the hip, a variable-damper mechanism at the knee, and a passive spring at the ankle. A state-machine control strategy is written based on joint angle and ground-exoskeleton force sensing. Positive non-conservative power is added at the hip during the walking cycle to help propel the mass of the human and payload forward. At the knee, the damper mechanism is turned on at heel strike as the exoskeleton leg is loaded and turned off during terminal stance to allow knee flexion. The spring at the ankle engages in controlled dorsiflexion to store energy that is later released to assist in powered plantarflexion. Kinetic and metabolic data are recorded from human subjects wearing the exoskeleton with a 75 lb. payload. These data are compared to data recorded from subjects walking without the exoskeleton. It is demonstrated that the exoskeleton transfers loads to the ground with a 90% and higher load transfer depending on the phase of gait. Further exoskeleton wearers report that the exoskeleton greatly reduces the stress on the shoulders and back. However, although a significant fraction of the payload is transferred through the exoskeleton structure, the exoskeleton is found to increase metabolic economy by 74%. By comparing distinct exoskeleton configurations, the relative effect of each exoskeleton component is determined.

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ADA453603
Studies of Biosilicification; The Role of Proteins, Carbohydrates and Model Compounds in Structure Control
Personal Author(s): Perry, Carole C
Report Date: 31 Dec 2005
Media Count: 141   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *CHEMICAL PROPERTIES, *MORPHOLOGY, *MOLECULAR STRUCTURE, *SILICATES, *MINERALIZATION, HYDROGEN BONDS, PEPTIDES, AMINO ACIDS, HYDROPHOBIC PROPERTIES, BIOMIMETICS, AQUEOUS SOLUTIONS, PLANTS(BOTANY), HYDROXYL RADICALS, CARBOHYDRATES, AMINES, REACTIVITIES, PROTEINS, INTERACTIONS
Identifiers: (U) *BIOSILICIFICATION, PROTEIN-MINERAL INTERACTIONS, BIOPOLYMER COMPONENTS, PLANT CELL WALLS, EQUISETUM ARVENSE, NONCOVALENT INTERACTIONS, ELECTROSTATIC INTERACTIONS, POROUS SILICAS, NONPOROUS SILICAS, INTERFACIAL CHEMISTRY, *SILICA
Abstract: (U) `Si' (in some form) has been shown to be associated with post-translationally modified protein and carbohydrate biopolymer components of the plant cell wall from Equisetum arvense. Bioextracts from the plant cell wall and bioinspired additives from amino acids, peptides, proteins and molecules containing reactive groups such as amines and hydroxyl groups have been found to modify the properties of silicas generated in their presence. The observed patterns of behaviour are functionality and structure dependent and centre upon non-covalent interactions between a range of silicon containing species and the solution phase additives. Electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding, the hydrophobic effect and the ordering of water all play a role in determining the structures adopted by silica produced in aqueous solution. Routes to porous and non-porous silicas and to silicas that show a range of gross morphologies including spheres, ribbons and structures that superficially mimic the material they have been formed in conjunction with have been developed. The level of understanding of chemical factors that affect silica formation has been extensively increased and new silica based materials generated. It is extremely likely that the set of `rules' governing (bio)silicification understood from this project will be used predictively in the future by others.

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ADA441273
Agent Based Computing Machine
Personal Author(s): Addison, Edwin R
Report Date: 09 Dec 2005
Media Count: 49   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *COGNITION, *COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE, ALGORITHMS, COMPUTER PROGRAMMING, PATTERN RECOGNITION, REDUNDANCY, BIOMIMETICS, ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, PARALLEL PROCESSING, STATISTICAL DATA, BIOCHEMISTRY
Identifiers: (U) *ABC(AGENT-BASED COMPUTING), COGNITIVE COMPUTING, MEMBRANE COMPUTING, BIOLOGICALLY-INSPIRED COMPUTING, SBIR(SMALL BUSINESS INNOVATION RESEARCH), SBIR REPORTS, SBIR TOPIC AF05-109 PHASE 1, SBIR TOPIC AF05-109 PHASE 2 PROPOSAL #F2-2873
Abstract: (U) This SBIR developed a new class of computer architecture called an "agent based computing" module (ABC Machine) that enables "cognitive computing" algorithms to be implemented effectively on a large scale. The ABC Machine is a biologically inspired architecture derived from the field of "membrane computing" and is also based upon "statistical dataflow computing". It operates in local contexts over string operators. The ABC Machine is motivated by analyzing the biochemical processing in cells. The architecture is suited for computing problems not easily solved by traditional machines. It has the properties of very high parallelism, distributed and redundant processing, and graceful degradation. Phase 1 demonstrated advantages over traditional AI algorithms on conventional machines.

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ADA463462
Pandora's Box Opened Wide: UAVs Carrying Genetic Weapons
Personal Author(s): Hauck, Daryl J
Report Date: Nov 2005
Media Count: 39   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *DRONES, *GENETICS, *ADVANCED WEAPONS, *NANOTECHNOLOGY, *BIOMIMETICS, ROBOTICS, MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS, APOPTOSIS, MICROMINIATURIZATION
Identifiers: (U) GENETIC WEAPONS
Abstract: (U) A recent Rand report on chemical and biological weapons (CBW) identifies unmanned aerial vehicles(UAVs) as a feasible CBW delivery means by potential adversaries like North Korea. With significant concern regarding the ability to defend against a delivery vehicle several meters in size, imagine the difficulty in defending against a future scenario involving swarms of micro UAVs (MAVs) carrying genetic weapons with the potential to create powerful and precise political, economical, and military effects from a tiny payload. With a motivation towards avoiding technological surprise, this paper notes emerging trends in several technology areas that collectively point towards this possibility. In particular, biomimetics, micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), and nanotechnology offer great promise in enabling feasible MAVs as delivery platforms, while these same technologies along with genetic research may enable the packaging of powerful and precise weaponry (potentially target-specific) in a microscopic payload that could be carried by these MAVs. The MAV/genetic weapon combination may offer a capability with enough power, precision, discrimination, and military utility to challenge the notion of all biological weapons being considered weapons of mass destruction (WMD), thus widening their potential use. This paper begins with a discussion of general technological themes and the law of unintended consequences... themes that are continually reinforced as specific enabling technologies are encountered throughout the essay. Subsequent sections build on this foundation by investigating several technology challenges specific to the hypothetical threat system, MAVs carrying genetic weapons. The paper concludes with a discussion of existing or potential responses and offers recommendations on technologies and information the U.S. should seek to ban, delay or control.

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ADA463474
Pesky Critters
Personal Author(s): Kloeppel, Kirk M
Report Date: Nov 2005
Media Count: 35   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *DRONES, *MICROMINIATURIZATION, ROBOTICS, NANOTECHNOLOGY, MILITARY CRITICAL TECHNOLOGY, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) UAV(UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES), MAV(MICRO AERIAL VEHICLE), BIOMIMICRY, OPTIC FLOW
Abstract: (U) The synergy of quantum physics, nanotechnology, and the new science of biomimicry portend the bedrock of the machinery needed to produce the housefly unmanned vehicle, a sensor device no enemy could hid from. This paper looks at the technology needed for such a device. The goal of building a miniature vehicle by 2020 or 2030 is achievable. The current state of research is providing a firm foundation.

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ADA451630
Motion Adaptation, its Role in Motion Detection Under Natural Image Conditions and Target Detection
Personal Author(s): O'Carroll, David
Report Date: 02 Jun 2005
Media Count: 76   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *TARGET DETECTION, *MOTION DETECTORS, *BIOMIMETICS, VELOCITY, IMAGE PROCESSING, ADAPTATION, INVARIANCE, CONTRAST, MODELS
This document is not available from DTIC in microfiche.
Abstract: (U) The contractor shall continue investigattion to (1) develop a working model for an elaborated elementary motion detector (EMD) that provides a more robust estimate of local image velocity under natural operating conditions than previous implementations of the Reichardt model and (2) establish a feasible mechanism for producing contrast invariance under real-world conditions that will ultimately provide a blueprint for a robust implementation of an adaptive EMD.

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ADA434611
Nanobiohybrids: New Model Systems for Membranes and Sensors
Personal Author(s): Giannelis, Emmanuel P
Report Date: Jun 2005
Media Count: 17   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *MEMBRANES(BIOLOGY), *DETECTORS, *BIOMIMETICS, TEMPERATURE, POLARIZATION, ELECTRIC FIELDS, PRESSURE, PH FACTOR, ELECTROSTATIC FIELDS, DYNAMIC RANGE, HYDROPHILIA
Identifiers: (U) *NANOHYBRIDS
Abstract: (U) The focus of this program is to correlate structure and function in biological membranes using nanohybrids as artificial models and to develop new sensors based on nanohybrids. Nanohybrids artificial membranes exhibit characteristics similar to biological membranes and they can be used as sensors. The nanohybrids membranes are synthesized by intercalating amphiphile molecules into the galleries of a layered host producing an alternating amphiphile/inorganic multilayer. We have established how the nanohybrid membranes respond to changes in temperature, pH, pressure and electric field. For example, permeation through the nanohybrids can be modulated by changing the pH or by switching on and off the electric field across the membrane. We have also shown that the nanohybrid membranes can be used as sensors for different analytes including saccharine and quinine. Different responses have been observed even for molecules that have similar features for example, saccharin and its sodium salt suggesting that the nanohybrid might be useful in developing an electronic nose. The dynamic range of the current sensor for saccharin is 6 micro M to 500 micro M. Recent work has enabled us to optimize the response time (from several minutes to seconds) as well as better understand the sensing mechanism. We have found that the absorption of saccharin renders the membrane more hydrophilic. The more hydrophilic membrane allows for increased absorption of water molecules on both the surfaces and galleries of the membrane, which leads to changes in electrostatic field and polarization of the membrane.

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ADA434349
Integrated Massively Parallel Arrays of Stochastic Sensors (IMPASS)
Personal Author(s): Montemagno, Carlo; Schmidt, Jacob
Report Date: Jun 2005
Media Count: 8   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *PROTEINS, *COPOLYMERS, *MEMBRANES, *BIOMIMETICS, THICKNESS, STOCHASTIC PROCESSES, DETECTORS, POLYMERS, LIPIDS, ARRAYS, SUBSTRATES, CYSTEINE, MICROMACHINING
Identifiers: (U) *STOCHASTIC SENSORS, IMPASS(INTEGRATED MASSIVELY PARALLEL ARRAYS OF STOCHASTIC SENSORS), LIPID MEMBRANES, POLYMER MEMBRANES, MICROMACHINED SUBSTRATES, *BIOMIMETIC POLYMER MEMBRANES
Abstract: (U) We report the successful formation of biomimetic polymer membranes approximately 5-6 nm in thickness made from the biomimetic amphiphilic triblock copolymer poly(methyloxazoline)-poly(dimethylsiloxane)-poly(methyloxazoline). We have also successfully inserted a number of membrane proteins (OmpG, MscL, alpha-hemolysin, and alamethicin) into these membranes and demonstrated that these proteins retain their natural function and capabilities. We have found that these membranes exhibit extended lifetimes compared to lipid membranes and on micromachined substrates the lifetime is extended even further (approximately 3 days). As a result of this work, we have found that biomimetic polymer membranes are suitable subjects for further research in membrane protein-based stochastic sensing.

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ADA455389
Interferon Agonists/Mimetics as Therapeutics for Smallpox and Other Respiratory Viruses
Personal Author(s): Johnson, Howard M
Report Date: 11 Apr 2005
Media Count: 5   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *INTERFERON, *POX VIRUSES, *BIOMIMETICS, THERAPY, ANTIVIRAL AGENTS, MICE
Identifiers: (U) *ANTI-VIRAL THERAPEUTICS, MOUSE MODEL, SMALLPOX, IMMUNE MECHANISMS, *INTERFERON GAMMA, *MIMETICS
Abstract: (U) We have developed small peptide mimetics of interferon (IFN) gamma that bypass the receptor extracellular binding site and interact directly downstream in the IFN signaling cascade. We have synthesized these mimetics with an attached hydrophobic residue for intracellular delivery. The mimetics encompass the C-terminus of IFN gamma and unlike intact IFN gamma are species non-specific in their action. We have shown in cell culture that the IFN mimetics, like IFN, are also virus nonspecific and are highly active against the picornavirus EMC virus and the poxvirus vaccinia. Importantly, unlike IFNs that are neutralized by the decoy receptors of poxviruses, the mimetics are fully active against viruses in the presence of B8R protein that blocks IFN gamma antiviral activity. In this final report we show the progress of testing one of the IFN mimetics, IFN gamma (95-132), against lethal vaccinia virus and EMC virus infections in mice in the presence of B8R protein. We also show the mechanism of action of the IFN mimetics at the level of gene transcription.

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ADA438877
Tactical Alteration of Blade Tonals in Underwater Vehicles Using Active Control of Biomimetic Muscles
Personal Author(s): Annaswamy, Anuradha M
Report Date: Jan 2005
Media Count: 13   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *UNDERWATER VEHICLES, *ROTOR BLADES, *BIOMIMETICS, UNSTEADY FLOW, ACOUSTIC PROPERTIES
Abstract: (U) The goal of this project is to achieve stealth by altering blade tonals, which occur due to the operation of a propulsor in a nonuniform flow, using active control of biomimetic muscles. Stealth is accomplished by many biological organisms through the introduction of suitable unsteady hydrodynamics. By modulating additional surfaces, these organisms appear to affect lift, drag, and related wake producing features, a combination of which may lead to a modification of the underlying acoustic characteristics. The question is whether the distillation of these features and their incorporation in an underwater propulsor for the purpose of noise reduction is a feasible endeavor. In this project, to achieve stealth, active control will be used, which consists of intentional articulation of suitable surfaces or boundary conditions in the vehicle using external energy. One of the main sources of noise production is direct radiation. Radiated noise is due to several sources, which include (i) fluctuating volumes, (ii) fluctuating forces, and (iii) turbulence. Fluctuating thrust and side forces are produced due to the operation of a propulsor in a non-uniform wake. In particular, a wake deficit is produced due to the presence of a stator or a guide-vane in a uniform flow 1,2. When this wake deficit is incident on the rotor blade, it generates an unsteady force, resulting in noise. Each rotor blade-geometry results in a specific spectrum of noise, and therefore generates a specific ""signature" of the radiated noise.

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ADA449542
Spring 2005 Industry Study. Strategic Materials
Personal Author(s): Boland, Michael; Bromell, Robert; Carpenter, Robert; Clark, Thomas; Donnelly, Thomas; Echernacht, Jr , Kenneth; Higgins, David; Madden, Michael; Martin, Matthew; Murdock, Hal
Report Date: Jan 2005
Media Count: 48   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *NATIONAL SECURITY, *MATERIALS, COMPETITION, STEEL, AVAILABILITY, TITANIUM, MILITARY MODERNIZATION, STOCKPILES, NANOTECHNOLOGY, MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, SUPERALLOYS, RARE EARTH ELEMENTS, POWDER METALLURGY, ALUMINUM, CERAMIC MATERIALS, COMPOSITE MATERIALS, ECONOMIC IMPACT
Identifiers: (U) COMMERCIALIZATION, INNOVATION, BIOMIMETICS, ACCESSIBILITY, AFFORDABILITY, CRITICAL MATERIALS, INNOVATION
Abstract: (U) Strategic materials are those materials and related technologies whose critical function or availability is essential for US economic competitiveness and security. Emerging materials and innovative technologies are key enablers to military transformation and economic growth. In order to retain its competitive advantage, the US must initiate a comprehensive National Materials Strategy to focus and revitalize the climate for innovation, to develop strategic partnerships for rapid commercialization, and to ensure the accessibility, availability, and affordability of critical materials. In summary, the US should again view materials as strategic given their role as a critical enabler for economic prosperity and security.

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ADA444160
WSTIAC: Weapon Systems Technology Information Analysis Center. Volume 6, Number 1
Personal Author(s): Ayers, Joseph; Davis, Joel L; Dean, Richard
Report Date: Jan 2005
Media Count: 16   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *SYSTEMS ENGINEERING, *ROBOTS, *BIOMIMETICS, MINE COUNTERMEASURES, MILITARY PUBLICATIONS, LITTORAL ZONES, LOBSTER, LOCOMOTIONAbstract: (U) We are pleased to present two articles that are both parts of a continuing series. The first article on biomimetics is written jointly by Dr. Joe Ayers of Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, and Dr. Joel Davis of the Office of Naval Research in Arlington, Virginia. The other article is the second in a series on Systems Engineering by Rick Dean, Alion Science and Technology, Systems Division, Director for Systems Engineering and a member of the WSTIAC staff. In the biomimetics article, Drs. Ayers and Davis describe a robot designed to emulate the mechanics of a lobster for potential littoral zone mine countermeasure applications. They describe the ambulatory locomotory movements and the hydrodynamic adaptability of a lobster and the manner in which they have implemented these abilities in the robot. They give a brief description of the biomimetic control architecture, the design of leg state machinery and its fabrication, and the biomimetic sensors, which allow the robot to navigate and perform autonomously in an unpredictable environment. The second article discusses the relevance of systems engineering to DoD systems, and briefly touches upon the Essential Elements of Project and Systems Engineering, as described by Dr. Howard Eisner. We show how Systems Engineering can help to contain cost. We also suggest benefits and provide examples of using Systems Engineering in the Science and Technology phases of development to aid the transition into the acquisition phases, ultimately resulting in more successful DoD programs

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ADP019716
Competitive Adsorption of Plasma Proteins on Polysaccharide-Modified Silicon Surfaces
Personal Author(s): Ombelli, Michela; Costello, Lauren B; Meng, Qing C; Composto, Russell J; Eckmann, David M
Report Date: Jan 2005
Media Count: 6   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *POLYSACCHARIDES, *BLOOD PROTEINS, SYMPOSIA, ADSORPTION, SURFACE PROPERTIES, SILICON, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) COMPONENT REPORTS
Abstract: (U) The initial response of blood exposed to an artificial surface is the adsorption of blood proteins that triggers a number of biological reactions such as inflammation and blood coagulation. Competitive protein adsorption plays a key role in the hemocompatibility of the surface. The synthesis of nonfouling surfaces is therefore one of the major prerequisites for devices for biomedical applications. Polysaccharides are the main components of the endothelial cell glycocalyx and have the ability to reduce nonspecific protein adsorption and cell adhesion and, therefore, are generally coupled with a wide variety of surfaces to improve their biocompatibility. We have developed a procedure for covalently binding dextran and sodium hyaluronate (HA) on silicon wafers and we have been able to achieve a high level of control over the surface properties of the coatings. In the present research effort we focus on a detailed investigation of competitive bovine serum albumin (BSA) and bovine fibrinogen (Fg) adsorption on dextran- and HA-modified silicon surfaces. Polysaccharide based biomimetic layers preferentially adsorb BSA and, in general, strongly suppress protein adsorption with respect to bare silicon and APTES-activated silicon surfaces used as control.

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ADP019697
Biodegradable Microfluidic Scaffolds for Vascular Tissue Engineering
Personal Author(s): Bettinger, C J; Borenstein, J T ;Langer, R S
Report Date: Jan 2005
Media Count: 6   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *TISSUES(BIOLOGY), SYMPOSIA, ELASTOMERS, OXYGEN, TRANSPORT PROPERTIES, CARBON DIOXIDE, GENETIC ENGINEERING, BIODEGRADATION, FLUID FLOW, REGENERATION(ENGINEERING), BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) COMPONENT REPORTS, MICROFLUIDIC, SCAFFOLDS, TISSUE ENGINEERING, PGS(POLYGLYCEROLSEBACATE)
Abstract: (U) This work describes the integration of novel microfabrication techniques for vascular tissue engineering applications in the context of a novel biodegradable elastomer. The field of tissue engineering and organ regeneration has been borne out of the high demand for organ transplants. However, one of the critical limitations in regeneration of vital organs is the lack of an intrinsic blood supply. This work expands on the development of scaffolds for vascular tissue engineering applications by employing microfabrication techniques. Unlike previous efforts, this work focuses on fabricating single layer and three-dimensional scaffolds from poly(glycerol-sebacate) (PGS), a novel biodegradable elastomer with superior mechanical properties. the transport properties of oxygen and carbon dioxide in PGS were measure through a series of time-lag diffusion experiments. The results of these measurements were used to calculate a characteristic length scale for oxygen diffusions limits in solid PGS scaffolds. Single layer and three-dimensional microfluidic scaffolds were then produced using fabrication techniques specific for PGS. This work has resulted in the fabrication of solid PGS-based scaffolds with biomimetic fluid flow and capillary channels on the order of 10 microns in width. Fabrication of complex, three dimensional microfluidic PGS scaffolds was also demonstrated by stacking and bonding multiple microfluidic layers.

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ADP019713
Synthesis and Application of Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized with Collagen Mimetic Peptides
Personal Author(s): Mo, Xiao; Yu, Seungju M
Report Date: Jan 2005
Media Count: 5   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *GOLD, *COLLAGEN, FIBERS, PEPTIDES, SYNTHESIS(CHEMISTRY), ELECTRON MICROSCOPY, CYSTEINE, SOLID PHASES, BIOMIMETICS, NANOSTRUCTURES
Identifiers: (U) COMPONENT REPORTS, NANOPARTICLES, CMPS(COLLAGEN MIMETIC PEPTIDES), TEM(TRANSMISSION ELECTRON MICROSCOPY)
Abstract: (U) Collagen is the principal tensile element of the extra-cellular matrix in animals and is the basic scaffold for cells and tissues. Abnormalities in its structure are known to result in a number of debilitating human diseases. Collagen mimetic peptides (CMPs) with repeat unit of (Pro-Hyp-Gly) are capable of forming right-handed triple-helical structures similar to that of the collagen triple helices. Recently, our group has shown that CMPs exhibit specific binding affinity to natural collagen under controlled thermal conditions. using solid phase peptide synthesis, we have prepared a CMP cysteine derivative that was used to modify gold nanoparticles. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) shows that the Cys-CMP functionalized gold nanoparticles have affinity to collagen fibers. We are investigating the interactions between Cys-CMP functionalized gold nanoparticles and collagen fibers. The Cys-CMP conjugated nanoparticles can potentially be used as a tool to visualize and understand unstable domains of collagen fibers which are related to a number of pathological conditions of extra cellular matrices.

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ADA433455
Development of Biomimetic Surfaces by Vesicle Fusion
Personal Author(s): Stroumpoulis, Dimitrios; Parra, Alejandro; Gliem, Jill; Tirrell, Matthew
Report Date: Dec 2004
Media Count: 9   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *ADHESION, *CELLS(BIOLOGY), *BIOMIMETICS, SYMPOSIA, PEPTIDES, LIPIDS, LIGANDS, MEMBRANES, ELLIPSOMETERS, HYDROPHILIA
Identifiers: (U) *VESICLE FUSION, COMPONENT REPORTS, AMPHIPHILE VESICLES
Availability: This document is not available from DTIC in microfiche.
Abstract: (U) In this study fusion of lipid-peptide amphiphile vesicles is employed to form biomimetic coating materials that can modify cellular adhesion and growth on solid substrates. Ellipsometry has been used to monitor vesicle fusion at different concentrations on hydrophilic surfaces and to identify adsorption as its limiting step. Incorporation of small amounts of RGD containing peptide amphiphiles in cell adhesion resistant PC lipid membranes is shown to promote adhesion and growth only when a sufficiently long spacer is used to control the distance of the peptide ligand from the surface.

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ADA429910
MAV State-of-the-Art and Technology Drivers
Personal Author(s): Voersmann, Peter
Report Date: 23 Jul 2004
Media Count: 37   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEMS, *MICROELECTRONICS, *AERODYNAMIC CHARACTERISTICS, *DRONES, *RECONNAISSANCE AIRCRAFT, *MICROMINIATURIZATION, UNITED STATES, PROTOTYPES, PROPULSION SYSTEMS, ENDURANCE(GENERAL), CAMERAS, SELF OPERATION, GERMANY, AUTONOMOUS NAVIGATION, AUSTRALIA, WORKSHOPS, AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY, TELEMETER SYSTEMS, AIRCRAFT DESIGN, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) BRIEFING CHARTS, COMPONENT REPORTS, MAV(MICRO AIR VEHICLES), UAV(UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES)
Availability: This document is not available from DTIC in microfiche.
Abstract: (U) These briefing charts present the state of the art of micro air vehicles (MAVs). These vehicles include those that are unmanned, unattended, and unassisted. MAVs are in increasing use both in the commercial and military sectors. MAVs can be completely remote-controlled, semi-autonomous and able to keep altitude and track while the operator commands up-down or left-right, or fully autonomous in that they can follow waypoints with no operator intervention necessary. The charts provide specifications for a number of MAVs that are currently operational. These specifications include manufacturer, wingspan, mass, payload, time endurance, whether operational or under development (prototype), and level of autonomy. The MAVs reviewed include the Aerosonde (Australia), the MLB Bat (United States), the Aladin (Germany), the Carolo XL (Germany), the Mikado (Germany), the Carolo (Germany), the Mite 2 (United States), the Dornier MAV (Germany), the RWTH Aachen MAV (Germany), the Black Widow (United States), and the Entomopter (United States). The development of MAVs is a multidisciplinary research activity involving flight dynamics, aerodynamics, aircraft design, microelectronics, propulsion systems, and guidance and control. Charts include an internal diagram of Carolo's components; Carolo during wind tunnel tests; aerodynamic characteristics, including lift versus drag, minimum glide angle, optimal speed, uncritical stall behavior, and flow separation; microelectronics components and actuator dynamics; flight dynamics; stability analysis; guidance and control systems, including flight and altitude controllers; and propulsion system. The presentation concludes with an overview of Carolo's ground control software and waypoint navigation system; Carolo's initial flight on 20 Dec 2002; and its first autonomous flight on 5 Sep 2003.

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ADA428829
How To Steal From Nature
Personal Author(s): Vincent, Julian
Report Date: 23 Jul 2004
Media Count: 28   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *DRONES, *BIOENGINEERING, MECHANICAL PROPERTIES, OPTIMIZATION, SURVIVABILITY, FLIGHT, MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM, ADAPTATION, WINGS, UNITED KINGDOM, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) BRIEFING CHARTS, FOREIGN REPORTS, MAV(MICRO AIR VEHICLES)
Availability: This document is not available from DTIC in microfiche.
Abstract: (U) Briefing charts from presentation on adapting natural phenomena to the development of umanned aerial vehicles.

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ADA429678
Biomimetic Polyaminoacids as Precursors for Optical-Active Intelligent Materials
Personal Author(s): Popova, G
Report Date: 17 Jun 2003
Media Count: 10   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *PEPTIDES, *OPTICAL MATERIALS, *AMINO ACIDS, *BIOMIMETICS, SYMPOSIA, COMPUTATIONS, MODELS, PHASE TRANSFORMATIONS, GLUTAMIC ACID, RUSSIA, MOLECULAR STRUCTURE, COMBINATORIAL ANALYSIS, SWITCHES, SELF ORGANIZING SYSTEMS, NANOTECHNOLOGY, SMART TECHNOLOGY
Identifiers: (U) PAA(POLYAMINO ACIDS), OPTICAL-ACTIVE INTELLIGENT MATERIALS, ROTAXANES, PGAD(POLYGLUTAMIC ACID DERIVATIVES), OLIGOAMINO ACIDS, FOREIGN REPORTS
Availability: This document is not available from DTIC in microfiche.
Abstract: (U) Three main types of light-sensitive polyaminoacids (PAA) such as: rod-like dyes contained; photoactive rotaxanes; and inorganic-organic cyclophosphazene hybrids are considered in the context of intelligent materials creations. Light-manipulative biomimetics preparation involves strategy via combinatorial synthesis; computation and modelling of possible molecular architecture; self-organization and supramolecular phase formation; function on nanoscale; stimula-responsive study; intelligent materials formation. Modified polyglutamic acid with dyes regular set possesses specific ability to self-assembly with cooperative rearrangement under outer temperature (carbocyanines bonded), pH (fluoresceine bonded). Ion-sensitivity of photoactive peptide (oligo-glutamic or oligo-glycine) rotaxanes is a promising feature for molecular switches construction. Inorganic-organic hybrids with cyclophosphazene cores (star-like design of poly-glutamic or poly-alanine) are the convenient matrixes for different fragments immobilization that can result in light-controlled conformation of PAA in variable states: solution, gel, film.

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ADA429575
Long Fiber Formation of Hydroxyapatite/Collagen Nanocomposites through a Self-Organization Mechanism
Personal Author(s): Kikuchi, M; Tanaka, J; Itoh, S; Shinomiya, K
Report Date: Jun 2003
Media Count: 7   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *FIBERS, *COMPOSITE MATERIALS, *CERAMIC MATERIALS, *COLLAGEN, *BONES, *NANOTECHNOLOGY, *BIOMIMETICS, EXTINCTION, POLARIZATION, SYMPOSIA, BIOCHEMISTRY, METABOLISM, JAPAN, CROSSLINKING(CHEMISTRY), SORPTION, BIOMECHANICS, CRYSTAL GROWTH, SELF ORGANIZING SYSTEMS, IONIC STRENGTH
Identifiers: (U) *HYDROXYAPATITE, *ARTIFICIAL BONE, ARTIFICIAL TISSUE, RESORPTION, BIOMATERIALS, BIOCERAMICS, COMPONENT REPORTS, FOREIGN REPORTS
Availability: This document is not available from DTIC in microfiche.
Abstract: (U) Long fibers of bone-like hydroxyapatite/collagen nanocomposites were fabricated via a self-organization under biomimetic conditions to obtain much more suitable biomechanical and biochemical properties for artificial bone and tissue engineering scaffolds. The fiber growth was controlled with ionic strength in the reaction vessel and was explained by a crystal growth model. The composite fiber grew up to 75 mm in length and demonstrated straight extinction under a polarized microscope. The composite compacts were incorporated into bone metabolism, and their resorption was controlled with cross linkage. The composite is utilizable for the bone reconstruction materials that can gradually change into bone.

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ADA417734
Biomolecular Patterning on Micro- and Nanofabricated Surfaces for Biosensor Applications and Cell-Based Research
Personal Author(s): Orth, Reid N
Report Date: May 2003
Media Count: 194   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *ANTIBODIES, *BIOMEDICINE, *CHEMICAL DETECTION, *VITAMIN B COMPLEX, *NANOTECHNOLOGY, EXPERIMENTAL DATA, LIPIDS, PROTEINS, THESES, SUBSTRATES, ELECTRON MICROSCOPY, SILICON, LIGANDS, MAST CELLS, ANTIGENS, LYMPHOCYTES, EOSINOPHILS, MACROPHAGES, PHOTOLITHOGRAPHY, CAPILLARY TUBES, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) *MICROPATTERNING, *BIOSENSORS, *AVIDIN BIOTIN, SILICON SUBSTRATES, *BIOMATERIAL PATTERNING, MICROFLUIDICS, PHOTOBIOTIN, PROTEIN PATTERNING
Abstract: (U) In this study, biomaterials are patterned at the micro- and nanometer scale for biosensor applications and cell-based research. Two enabling technologies were photoactivatable biotin and the polymer lift-off technique. Avidin-biotin complexes have been immobilized on planar silicon substrates and to the inner surfaces of capillary tubes. The latter serves as a model for patterning inside microfluidic systems. Several biomaterials have been patterned using the polymer lift-off method, including lipids, metal, microspheres, biotin, and proteins (e.g., antibodies, protein A, and NeutrAvidin). The patterned lipids formed supported lipid bilayers with diffusion coefficients comparable to cell membranes as confirmed by fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRP). The author's tailored patterns comprised 2, 4-dinitrophenyl (DNP) or biotin functionalized lipids with features ranging from 1.3 micrometers to 76 micrometers. Non-lipid molecules were patterned in features as small as 700 nanometers. A characterization of the surfaces has shown a highly uniform patterning. Several of these materials also were applied in patterned regions inside microtrenches. Micro- and nanometer-scale patterns of functionalized biomaterials served as spatially controlled stimuli for cell surface ligands in this research. This technology has been applied to rat basophilic leukocyte (RBL) cells, eosinophils, lymphocytes, macrophages, and fibroblasts. For RBL experiments, DNP-conjugated lipids have been incorporated in the lipid bilayers with fluorescent lipid DiIC16 and used to stimulate RBL cells sensitized with anti-DNP IgE on the Fc receptors. Receptor aggregation was observed with confocal microscopy. This technique allows researchers to study the effects of antigen density on cellular response, binding kinetics, and the redistribution after individual binding events. (1 table, 71 figures)

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ADP014236
Computational Design, Freeform Fabrication and Testing of Nylon-6 Tissue Engineering Scaffolds
Personal Author(s): Das, Suman; Hollister, Scott J; Flanagan, Colleen; Adewunmi, Adebisi; Bark, Karlin
Report Date: Apr 2003
Media Count: 7   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *TISSUES(BIOLOGY), *COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN, *BIOENGINEERING, SYMPOSIA, POLYMERS, FABRICATION, NUMERICAL METHODS AND PROCEDURES, ARCHITECTURE, IN VIVO ANALYSIS, POROUS MATERIALS, IMPLANTATION, BLOOD VESSELS, SINTERING, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) *SOLID FREE FORM, *NYLON-6, *TISSUE ENGINEERING, *SCAFFOLDS, *BIOMATERIALS, COMPONENT REPORT, LASER SINTERING, IN VIVO IMPLANTATION
Abstract: (U) Advanced and novel fabrication methods are needed to build complex three-dimensional scaffolds that incorporate multiple functionally graded biomaterials with a porous internal architecture that will enable the simultaneous growth of multiple tissues, tissue interfaces and blood vessels. The aim of this research is to develop, demonstrate and characterize techniques for fabricating such scaffolds by combining solid freeform fabrication and computational design methods. When fully developed, such techniques are expected to enable the fabrication of tissue engineering scaffolds endowed with functionally graded material composition and porosity exhibiting sharp or smooth gradients. As a first step towards realizing this goal, scaffolds with periodic cellular and biomimetic architectures were designed and fabricated using selective laser sintering in Nylon-6, a biocompatible polymer. Results of bio-compatibility and in vivo implantation studies conducted on these scaffolds are reported.

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ADA414733
Biomimetic Polymers with Antimicrobial Activity
Personal Author(s): Tew, Gregory N; Arnt, Lachelle
Report Date: 06 Mar 2003
Media Count: 6   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *POLYMERS, PEPTIDES, PROTEINS, LANGMUIR PROBES, ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS, GRAM POSITIVE BACTERIA, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) AMPHIPHILIC POLYMERS, PROTEOMICS
Abstract: (U) Structural proteinomics is providing rapid insight into the structural and biological functions of many proteins. Our intention was to use this understanding to develop polymers that are more stable and inexpensive to produce than natural proteins, but nevertheless mimic their important biological properties. Toward this goal, we have focused on the host defense peptides, which are a broad class of peptides with remarkable antimicrobial properties against a host of organisms including Gram- negative and Gram-positive bacteria. These peptides have a common physiochemical motif that leads to their biological activity, which is an overall cationic and amphiphilic architecture. We developed polymers that also have an overall cationic and amphiphilic architecture similar to the peptides. Recently, similar work has been reported on beta-amino acids however these materials are still very labor intensive and expensive to produce. Nonetheless, they demonstrate that non-natural polymers can be used to mimic peptide activity. We developed a family of very inexpensive polymers that mimic the structural characteristics of amphiphilic beta-sheet peptides.

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ADA422396
Defense Horizons. Number 25, March 2003. Biology and the Battlefield
Personal Author(s): Armstrong, Robert E; Warner, Jerry B
Report Date: Mar 2003
Media Count: 9   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *MILITARY CAPABILITIES, *BIOTECHNOLOGY, MILITARY MEDICINE, BIOLOGICAL WARFARE, BIOLOGICAL DETECTION, MILITARY MODERNIZATION, BIOMIMETICS

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ADA412000
Protein-Assisted Redox Sensing at Biomimetic Electrode
Personal Author(s): Tian, Yongchi; Chen, Jia
Report Date: Feb 2003
Media Count: 20   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *ELECTRODES, *OXIDATION REDUCTION REACTIONS, *BIOMIMETICS, PROTEINS, ELECTRON TRANSFER
Identifiers: (U) *NON-DISSIPATIVE ELECTRON TRANSFER, SAM(SELF ASSEMBLED MEMBRANE), VECTORIAL ELECTRON TRANSFER, BIO-ELECTRONIC INTERFACE, REDOX SENSING
Abstract: (U) Sarnoff is developing a biomimetic protein-assisted redox sensing system based on the organized molecular pathways found in nature. This system makes use of a biomimetic membrane coated on a gold electrode as a bio-electronic interface. This membrane will enable the nondissipative conversion of a redox event occurring in an aqueous medium to an electrical signal. The nondissipative conversion is enabled by lipid chains functionalized with prosthetics groups that are organized to mimic concerted, vectorial electron transfer. In this program, Sarnoff has designed and synthesized electron transfer molecules, and engineered them into an organized self-assembled membrane (SAM). We have demonstrated the vectorial transfer of electrons from a biofluid (aqueous) solution to an electrode using this membrane. We also functionalized the SAM with proteins to demonstrate the sensing of redox reaction in aqueous solution.

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ADA414905
Symposium C: Bio-Inspired Nanoscale Hybrid Systems
Personal Author(s): Schmid, Guenter; Simon, Ulrich; Stranick, Stephen J; Arrivo, Steven M
Report Date: Dec 2002
Media Count: 28   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *POLYMERS, *NANOTECHNOLOGY, *BIOMIMETICS, SYMPOSIA, BIOMOLECULES
Identifiers: (U) NANOPARTICLES, NANOSCALE HYBRID SYSTEMS, NANOSCALE DEVICES, BIOMACROMOLECULES, PE61102F, WUAFRL2312DX
Abstract: (U) Symposium C, Bio-Inspired Nanoscale Hybrid Systems, provided an extensive overview of the new and advanced approach to synthesize functional materials and to fabricate nanoscale devices utilizing biomolecules as a key building block. Nature utilizes molecular recognition between complex biomacromolecules to form sophisticated meso- and macroscopic architectures with tremendous control over the placement and orientation of nanoscopic building blocks. On the other hand, the advances of nanotechnology provide us new nanoscale structures including nanoparticles, nanowires, nanofabricated circuits etc. The marriage between biomolecules and these new nanostructructures allows us to envision many scientific breakthroughs and commercial applications. For example, specific interactions between biomolecules can be utilized as a major driving force to build sophisticated 1D, 2D and 3D architectures. C. A. Mirkin (Northwestern Univ.) demonstrated "biodirected synthesis of functional materials using nanoscale building blocks" where biomolecular interactions such as DNA hybridization is utilized to direct the assembly of nanoparticles to form desired architectures. Several researchers reported various bio-inspired synthesis and assembly results such as the synthesis of metallic nanowires from peptides, DNA-mediated assembly of carbon nanotubes, and 3D assembly of nanoparticles using virus as a template.

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ADA415591
Elastin Bioelastomers for Microactuation
Personal Author(s): Chilkoti, Ashutosh
Report Date: Dec 2002
Media Count: 5   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *POLYMERS, PHASE TRANSFORMATIONS, PEPTIDES, DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACIDS, CROSSLINKING(CHEMISTRY), ORGANIC MATERIALS, GELS, ALBUMINOIDS, BIOMIMETICS, RECOMBINANT DNA
Identifiers: (U) ELP(ELASTIN-LIKE POLYPEPTIDES), BIOPOLYMERS
Abstract: (U) Stimuli-responsive elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs) with controlled polymer architectures were synthesized by recombinant DNA techniques, and the structure-property relationships and force transduction in crosslinked gels of these biopolymers were investigated as a function of their phase transition behavior. These studies provide design rules for the rational fabrication of ELP-based microactuators that function in aqueous environment to meet ONR objectives.

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ADA406041
Biomimetic Infrared (IR) Sensors
Personal Author(s): Stone, Morley O
Report Date: Aug 2002
Media Count: 8   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *INFRARED DETECTORS, *BIOMIMETICS, SIGNAL PROCESSING, OPTICAL EQUIPMENT, INFRARED RADIATION, PHOTOSENSITIVITY
Identifiers: (U) PE61102F, WUAFRL2312DW0P

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ADP013600
Sensor Materials - Detecting Molecules, Mixtures and Microorganisms
Personal Author(s): Dickert, Franz L; Hayden, Oliver; Lieberzeit, Peter A;
Palfinger, Christian
Report Date: 05 Apr 2002
Media Count: 10   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *POLYMERS, REMOTE DETECTORS, ORGANIC SOLVENTS, AUSTRIA, MOLECULAR PROPERTIES, CHEMICAL DETECTION, MICROORGANISMS, MICROMETERS, INORGANIC POLYMERS, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) COMPONENT REPORT, FOREIGN REPORTS, QCMS(QUARTZ CRYSTAL MICROBALANCES), MIP(MOLECULARLY IMPRINTED POLYMERS), M2.1
Abstract: (U) Sensor materials based on molecularly imprinted organic and inorganic polymers were designed and characterized according to their selectivity and sensitivity using mass-sensitive quartz crystal microbalances (QCMs). Cavities of differing shapes and sizes were created in both organic and inorganic polymers, able to selectively re-include the template species. Imprinting was performed both on the molecular and the micrometer scale. The chemical and biomimetic sensors developed allow the detection of various analyses, such as VOCs in ambient conditions, complex mixtures (automotive engine oils) and microorganisms. Thus, the extraordinary flexibility of templating methods is proved as the most versatile platform technology for advanced sensor materials.

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ADA418623
Materials Research Society Symposium Proceedings. Volume 724. Biological and Biomimetic Materials - Properties to Function
Personal Author(s): Aizenberg, Joanna; McKittrick, Joanna M; Orme, Christine A
Report Date: Apr 2002
Media Count: 232   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *BIOLOGICAL PRODUCTS, *BIOMIMETICS, FUNCTIONS, MECHANICAL PROPERTIES, TISSUES(BIOLOGY), MICROSTRUCTURE, SYMPOSIA, BACTERIA, POLYMERS, COMPOSITE MATERIALS, RESISTANCE, PROTEINS, SILICON, MAST CELLS, BARNACLES, ANTIGENS, TRIBOLOGY, EPIDERMIS, PHOSPHATES, BIODETERIORATION, MAGNETITE, LACTIC ACID, REGENERATION(PHYSIOLOGY), GLYCOLIC ACID, DENTAL ENAMEL, KERATINIZATION, MINERALIZATION
Identifiers: (U) COMPILATION REPORTS
Abstract: (U) Partial contents: Materials Research Society Symposium Proceedings. Extracellular Matrix Molecules Involved in Barnacle Shell Mineralization. Molecular Mechanism of Bacterial Magnetite Formation and Its Application. Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of Stratum Corneum. Biologically-Based Self-Assembling Hydrogels Self-Assembly of a Modular Polypeptide Based on Blocks of Silk-Mimetic and Elastin-Mimetic Sequences. In Vitro Vascular Cell Adhesion and Proliferation on Alkaline Degraded Poly-lactic/glycolic Acid Polymers. Nanoscale Patterning of Antigen on Silicon Substrate to Examine Mast Cell Activation. Formation, Characterization, Protein Resistance, and Reactivity of CI3Si(CH2)11(OCH2CH2)3OH Self-Assembled Monolayers. Helical, Disordered, and What That Means: Structural Characterization of a New Series of Methyl 1-Thiaoligo(ethylene Oxide) Self-Assembled Monolayers... Selectivity of Polypeptide Binding to Nanoscale Substrates. Developing Bio-Stable and Biodegradable Composites for Tissue Replacement and Tissue Regeneration. Effects of Counterface Roughness and Conformity on the Tribological Performance of Crosslinked and Non-Crosslinked Medical-Grade Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene. Effects of Ionic Flow and Amelogenins on the Lengthwise Growth of Octacalcium Phosphate Crystals in a Model System of Tooth Enamel Formation.

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ADP014420
Microcontact Printing via a Polymer-Induced Liquid-Precursor (PILP) Process
Personal Author(s): Kim, Yi-yeoun; Gower, Laurie B
Report Date: Apr 2002
Media Count: 7   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *POLYMERS, *PRECURSORS, *LIQUID PHASES, *MINERALIZATION, FILMS, CRYSTALLIZATION, DEPOSITION, GOLD, PRINTING, MINERALS, PHASE CONTROL, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) COMPONENT REPORTS
Abstract: (U) Our biomimetic approach for patterned crystallization is based on the combination of the Micro-Contact Printing technique and a novel mineralization process, called the Polymer- Induced-Liquid-Precursor (PILP) process, which enables the deposition of mineral films under low-temperature and aqueous-based conditions. We demonstrate that a liquid-phase mineral precursor is deposited onto specific areas templated with self-assembled monolayers of alkanethiolate on gold, and then the patterned calcitic films grow under constrained conditions via transformation of the PILP phase leading to control over the location and morphology of calcitic films.

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ADA399845
Tracking of Fluid-Advected Odor Plumes: Strategies Inspired by Insect Orientation to Pheromone
Personal Author(s): Li, Wei; Farrell, Jay A; Carde, Ring T
Report Date: 19 Jan 2002
Media Count: 77   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *INSECTICIDES, *INSECTS, *PHEROMONES, ALGORITHMS, SIGNAL PROCESSING, SOURCES, STRATEGY, CHEMICALS, MOTION, ORIENTATION(DIRECTION), TRACKING, NAVIGATION, SELF OPERATION, MANEUVERS, FLOW, VEHICLES, PLUMES, INDICATORS, PERCEPTION, ACTUATION, SENSES(PHYSIOLOGY), FLUID FLOW, LEPIDOPTERA, ODORS
Identifiers: (U) *ROBOTIC PLUME TRACKING, BIOMIMETIC BEHAVIOR, ODOR PLUME
Abstract: (U) Autonomous vehicles with plume tracing capabilities would be valuable for finding chemical sources in fluid flows. This article considers strategies allowing autonomous vehicles to find and trace an odor plume to its source. These strategies are inspired by the maneuvers of moths flying upwind along a pheromone plume. Although moth maneuvers are well documented, the mechanisms underlying sensory perception and navigation are not fully understood; therefore, a key objective was to define sensor, signal processing, and actuation algorithms for autonomous vehicles. The strategies presented do not precisely mimic insect orientation to odors. Optimizing performance, however, suggests orientation strategies that may have biological counterparts. The results demonstrate the importance of cross-plume counterturning strategies for maintaining intermittent contact with the chemical plume, given noisy sensory information. It is important for the searcher to maintain intermittent contact with the plume because flow direction while detecting odor is the main indicator of the instantaneous desired direction of motion.

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ADA480642
Coevolution of Form and Function in the Design of Micro Air Vehicles
Personal Author(s): Bugajska, Magdalena D; Schultz, Alan C
Report Date: Jan 2002
Media Count: 11   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *DRONES, *MICROMINIATURIZATION, *MICROSENSORS, ALGORITHMS, COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION, BIOMIMETICS, WORKSHOPS, AUTONOMOUS NAVIGATION, CONTROL THEORY
Identifiers: (U) MAV(MICRO AIR VEHICLES), COEVOLUTIONARY MODELS, EVOLUTIONARY ALGORITHMS, FITNESS FUNCTION, CONTROLLERS
Abstract: (U) This paper discusses approaches to cooperative coevolution of form and function for autonomous vehicles, specifically evolving morphology and control for an autonomous micro air vehicle (MAV). The evolution of a sensor suite with minimal size, weight, and power requirements, and reactive strategies for collision-free navigation for the simulated MAV is described. Results are presented for several different coevolutionary approaches to evolution of form and function (single- and multiple-species models) and for two different control architectures (a rulebase controller based on the SAMUEL learning system and a neural network controller implemented and evolved using ECkit).

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ADA409701
Upper Limb-Hand 3D Display System for Biomimetic Myoelectric Hand Simulator
Personal Author(s): Jimenez, Gonzalo G; Ryuhei, Okuno; Akazawa, Kenzo
Report Date: 25 Oct 2001
Media Count: 5   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *SIMULATORS, *DISPLAY SYSTEMS, *HANDS, *ARTIFICIAL LIMBS, JAPAN, THREE DIMENSIONAL, ELECTROMYOGRAPHY, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) FOREIGN REPORTS
Abstract: (U) A graphics system displaying both upper limb posture and opening-closing of a prosthetic hand was developed for realtime operation of our biomimetic myoelectric hand simulator, Posture of the upper limb was determined by 3D position of shoulder, elbow and wrist, which were detected with Optotrack. Finger angle of the hand was given by the simulator, which receive the surface myoelectric signal (EMGs) of both flexor and extensor muscles of the forearm, A non-amputee subject could control smoothly the finger angle by using this display system

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ADA390132
Biomimetic Processing of Ceramic Composites
Personal Author(s): Aksay, Ilhan A; Dabbs, Daniel M
Report Date: 02 Apr 2001
Media Count: 11   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *CERAMIC MATRIX COMPOSITES, PARAMETERS, POLYMERS, COMPOSITE MATERIALS, PARTICLES, LIGHT TRANSMISSION, BIOMIMETICS, STEREOLITHOGRAPHY
Identifiers: (U) CSL(CERAMIC STEREOLITHOGRAPHY)
Abstract: (U) Three task areas composed the research effort: (1) optimized depth of photocuring in a resin system, (2) improved resin/ceramic particle compatibilities consistent for use in stereolithography, and (3) developing the technique of ceramic stereolithography (CSL) for the fabrication of a ceramic matrix composite test structure. The depth of photocuring in a model resin system was investigated as a function of photoinitiator concentration. Polymer solutions were photocured using varying levels of energy and photoinitiator concentration. An optimal photoinitiator concentration maximizing the cure depth was observed. Two regimes were shown to exist in which shrinkage was minimized or maximized. A quantitative model was developed to describe the system's behavior. Good agreement with experiment was obtained and the model predicted both the existence and location of the optimal photoinitiator concentration and corresponding cure depth. After optimizing the resin/particle system, complex shaped structures were fabricated from ceramic powder compacts constructed using CSL. The main processing parameters in CSL such as layer thickness, resolution, hatch spacing, and overcure were found to depend on the light propagation in a concentrated dispersion, and a model was developed and used to optimize the fabrication of the ceramic structures.

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ADA388146
Biomimetic Sensor for Pathogenic Bacteria
Personal Author(s): Walsh, Marie K; De Wald, Daryll B; Weimer, Bart C
Report Date: 05 Mar 2001
Media Count: 17   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *BIOMIMETICS, OSMOSIS, LIPOSOMES, PROTEINS, MICROSCOPY, MEMBRANES, PATHOGENIC MICROORGANISMS, PHOSPHOLIPIDS
Identifiers: (U) MSCL PROTEINS, CONFOCAL MICROSCOPY, IMMOBILIZED LIPOSOMES
Abstract: (U) This study investigated the assembly of a biomimetic sensor containing an osmotic receptor protein. The first objective of this research included the assembly and immobilization of fluorescently tagged liposomes. The second objective involved the expression and purification of an osmotic sensitive protein (MscL) and the incorporation of this protein into the liposome membrane. Liposomes (2 micron diameter) containing fluorescein labeled phospholipids and biotinylated phosphotidyl ethanolamine in the membranes and internalized soluble sulforhodamine were assembled. Liposomes were characterized with respect to composition, size, and shelf-life using confocal microscopy. Avidin was covalently attached to a glass surface for the immobilization of the biotinylated liposomes. Immobilization of fluorescent liposomes was confirmed with confocal microscopy. The liposomes contain a green/yellow lipid bilayer and a red interior. The cloning of recombinant MScL into an Escherichia coli expression system yielded an MScL-thioredoxin fusion protein that was tagged with a blue fluorescent dye and incorporated into the membrane of the liposomes. The functionality of the proteosome was observed by the release of the water soluble sulforhodamine in the presence of high salt, 3 M, concentrations.

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ADA392602
Instrumentation for Chemical Studies of Biomimetrics
Personal Author(s): Barkley, Mary
Report Date: Mar 2001
Media Count: 4   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *BIOCHEMISTRY, *BIOPHYSICS, *BIOMIMETICS, REPRINTS, DETECTORS, CORES, ACQUISITION, INTERACTIONS, PROTEINS, SIGNAL TO NOISE RATIO, HIGH RESOLUTION, PURIFICATION, LIGANDS, INSTRUMENTATION, FLOW, KINETICS, BIOLOGICAL DETECTION, CIRCULAR, DICHROISM, NUCLEIC ACIDS, ACIDS, ORGANIC CHEMISTRY, PROSTHETICS
Abstract: (U) The research work for this proposal has proceeded extremely well and significant progress has been made. As outlined in the original proposal, the initiative features collaborative interactions among several core faculty in bioorganic and biophysical chemistry to share expertise, technology, and ideas. We are happy to report that collaborations among, not only these faculty', but also numerous other groups on campus has resulted from the acquisition of the equipment. Together, these faculty have brought fundamental studies of protein-nucleic acid and protein- protein interactions as well as interactions of proteins with prosthetic groups and ligands to bear on key structure-function questions with potential applications to biocatalysts, biomaterials, and biosensors. The original budget request listed five instruments to support chemical studies of biomimetics. The revised budget was pared down to three major instruments. After extensive evaluation and discussion among the co-P.I.s and other users, we concluded that the combined specifications of high resolution circular dichroism (CD) spectra and high signal-to-noise stopped- flow kinetic data were not available in a single instrument. We therefore purchased four instruments as described below. We also purchased an ultracentrifuge rotor for protein purification.

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ADA383744
Biological Rules and Mechanisms Governing the Nanofabrication of Highly Regular Mineralized Microlaminate Composites
Personal Author(s): Morse, Daniel E; Stucky, Galen D; Hansma, Paul K
Report Date: 10 Oct 2000
Media Count: 5   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *COMPOSITE MATERIALS, *PROTEINS, *SYNTHESIS(CHEMISTRY), DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACIDS, SILICON, IMAGES, CLONES, GENETIC ENGINEERING, MINERALIZATION, NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOMIMETICS
Abstract: (U) We purified and characterized the proteins from the microlaminate abalone shell (a natural high performance armor with fracture toughness 3,000-fold greater than that of its mineral component alone) and "flat pearl" and from sponge and diatom biosilicas. We then cloned and sequenced the cDNAs encoding these proteins, and used the resulting structural information, in concert with site- directed mutagenesis (genetic engineering) and real-time atomic force microscopy and other advanced imaging techniques to reveal the fundamental mechanisms by which the proteins control the mineral nucleation, growth and nanocomposite structures based on both silicon and calcium. Advanced imaging with AFM, XRD, SICM, EDAXAX and NMR was used to resolve the mechanisms controlling synthesis and shape in biomineralization and biomimetic synthesis, and details of the structure-directing organic-inorganic interfacial interactions. We then used this information to make useful new mineral-organic composite materials in vitro.

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ADA394551
Neurotechnology for Biomimetic Robots
Personal Author(s): Ayers, Joseph; Davis, Joel; Rudolph, Alan
Report Date: 16 May 2000
Media Count: 41   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *ROBOTS, *BIOMIMETICS, SCANNING, SYMPOSIA, UNDERWATER VEHICLES, DETECTORS, BIOLOGY, VERY LARGE SCALE INTEGRATION, ACTUATORS, VISION, MUSCLES, THORAX, MULTISENSORS, EYE MOVEMENTS, OLFACTORY NERVE, MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEMS
Identifiers: (U) *NEUROTECHNOLOGY, GENETIC ALGORITHM, SWIMMING LOCOMOTION, AMBULATORY ROBOTS, FLYING INSECT THORAX, ENTOMOPTERS, AMBULATORY, ENTOMOPTERS, FLYING INSECTS
Abstract: (U) This award funded in part, the travel of three investigators to the international conference on Neurotechnology for Biomimetic Robots. The three investigators participated in a conference held at Northeastern University May 14-16 on the subject of 'Neurotechnology for Biomimetic Robots'. Each investigator contributed a chapter for a book of the same title that is being published by MIT Press. The book is to be published in Spring of 2002. The conference and book has a web page at: http;//www.dac.neu.edu/msc/neurotechnogy.html. The investigators included: Professor Naomi Kato: Tokai University Dr. Motomu Nakashima: Tokyo Institute of Technology Professor M. V. Srinivasan: Australian National University,

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ADA384487
Combinatorial and Biomimetic Approach on Asymmetric Catalysis for the Synthesis of Ferroelectric Liquid Crystals
Personal Author(s): Zhang, Xumu
Report Date: 28 Feb 2000
Media Count: 11   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *LIQUID CRYSTALS, *CATALYSIS, *COMBINATORIAL ANALYSIS, *PHOSPHINE, *FERROELECTRIC CRYSTALS, *BIOMIMETICS, POLARIZATION, HYDRIDES, SYNTHESIS, MOLECULES, OPTICAL MATERIALS, ORGANOMETALLIC COMPOUNDS, LASER BEAMS, ASYMMETRY, LIGANDS, ALKYLATION, ABSORPTION, VISCOSITY, CYCLIC COMPOUNDS, ALDEHYDES, HYDROGENATION, PATENTS, ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING, LINE SPECTRA, LASER MATERIALS, ENANTIOMERS
Identifiers: (U) CHIRAL LIGANDS, MONOPHOSPHINES
Abstract: (U) During the funding period, we have made significant progress both in the developing new methods for asymmetric synthesis and discovering new liquid crystal materials. Over a dozen of papers have been published or in press in several journals (J. Am. Chem. Soc., J. Org. Chem. and Tetrahedral Letter) and three have been submitted for publication. We have developed a chiral toolbox with a large set of chiral ligands for asymmetric catalysis. These includes helical ligands, chiral monophosphines, chiral tridentate ligands and novel chiral bidentate phosphines with rigid backbones. Excellent activities and enantioselectivities (up to 99 % ee) have been observed in many asymmetric reactions such as hydride transfer reaction, hydrogenation, alkylation of aldehydes, cycloaddition and allylic alkylation. Seven patents have been filed and several companies (Catalytica and Pfizer) have licensed this technology for the production of chiral molecules in industrial scales. Using these methods and other organometallic methodologies, we have made a number of chiral liquid crystals and related materials. We are developing high polarization materials as candidates of novel ferroelectric liquid crystals. The viscosity of a diphenyl-diacetylene liquid crystals is far lower than the corresponding quadra-phenyl liquid crystals. We have synthesized chiral liquid crystals using this conjugated backbone (diphenyl diacetylene). We also plans to change the arrangement of the phenyl-acetylene modules and these changes could alter the physical properties of liquid crystals in useful ways (e.g., absorption efficiency of Laser lines). This research is carried out in collaboration with Professor I. C. Khoo in Department of Electrical Engineering at Penn State University. The research collaboration with Professor Khoo has resulted in excellent laser optical limiting materials.

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ADA376056
Smart Materials by Extrusion Solid Freeform Fabrication
Personal Author(s): Calvert, Paul
Report Date: 25 Jan 2000
Media Count: 6   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *COMPOSITE MATERIALS, *EXTRUSION, *SMART TECHNOLOGY, FIBER REINFORCED COMPOSITES, POWDER METALLURGY, BIOMIMETICS
Identifiers: (U) FIBER ORIENTATION, SHORT FIBER COMPOSITES, *FREEFORMING
Abstract: (U) Extrusion freeform fabrication has been used to build strong composite materials, materials with embedded sensors to monitor stress and degree of cure, and graded metal and ceramic composites. For fiber-reinforced composites it has been shown that orientation can be controlled by the writing process, allowing stiffness and strength to be varied from point to point within a component. A swelling and mineralization approach allows biomimetic composites to be made with high volume fractions of inorganic reinforcement and strengths up to 100 MPa. Studies of the response of parts with embedded stress sensors shows that the sensor response must be interpreted in light of stress sharing between the sensor and the host material. Freeforming offers a versatile route to many new material combinations. Potential applications include tough ceramics, desktop manufacturing and biomedical implants.

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ADA400410
Electroactive Polymers and Biosystems: New Directions in Electroactive Polymer Materials for Biomimetic and Interactive Processes
Report Date: 03 Aug 2001
Media Count: 212   Page(s)
Descriptors: (U) *ROBOTICS, *POLYMERS, *COMMUNICATION AND RADIO SYSTEMS, *CATALYSIS, *ELECTROCATALYSTS, *BIOMIMETICS, DETECTORS, MOLECULES, MATERIALS, ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES, NERVOUS SYSTEM, ITALY, ACTUATORS, BIOLOGICAL DETECTION, ITALIAN LANGUAGE
Identifiers: (U) AQ FO2-07-1183, FOREIGN REPORTS, MOLECULAR ACTUATORS, NEURAL COMMUNICATION, BIOSTRUCTURE AND TISSUE ENGINEERING, ARTIFICIAL SENSORS, BIOMECHATRONICS
Abstract: (U) The workshop, held in Lucca, Italy, 30 July - 3 August 2001, was sponsored by ONR-IFO and DARPA and was organized by the University of Pisa, Italy. Its aim was to evaluate the progress in research and assessment of new frontiers in the field of electroactive polymers and their potential applications in biomimetics and various other interactive processes. Presentations and topics were organized into six topical areas: (1) Biomimetics, (2) Molecular Actuators, (3) Neural Communications, (4) Biostructure and Tissue Engineering, (5) Artificial Sensors and Biosensors, and (6) Robotics and Biomechantronics.

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