Algorithms Archives - Physical Sciences Inc.

Press Release

Physical Sciences Inc. and their university partner propose to develop a chemical model that accurately predicts the performance of hydroxyl terminated polybutadiene (HTPB) polymer commonly used as a propellant binder in rocket motors. The model will utilize chemical and physical data from HTPB feedstock to predict propellant cure kinetics, mechanical properties, and aging performance. The model will incorporate an algorithm with the capability to provide formulation recommendations to achieve cured propellants with precise performance specifications. In Phase I, PSI conducted a Design Of Experiments (DOE) by independently modifying the chemical functionalities on HTPB while collecting curing and performance data. This comprehensive data set was used to determine statistically significant associations that correlate HTPB chemical variables with gumstock performance properties. The DOE results gathered in Phase I will be used to build and validate a predictive software model in Phase II. This HTPB predictive algorithm will serve as a tool that will enable formulators to adjust propellant formulation parameters to achieve performance properties without the schedule and cost risks associated with rework. Successful development of the proposed HTPB predictive algorithm will provide the Navy with a critical technology that reduces costs and risks throughout the DoD tactical missile supply chain.

For more information contact:

Dr. Colin Hessel
Group Leader, Advanced Interfacial Materials
chessel@psicorp.com
Physical Sciences Inc.
Office: (978) 689-0003

Acknowledgement of Sponsorship: This work is supported under a contract with the Naval Air Warfare Center (NAVAIR). This support does not constitute an express or implied endorsement on the part of the Government.

Press Release

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) has been awarded a contract from the U.S. Navy to develop an automated capability for the Integrated Combat System (ICS) that estimates the effectiveness achieved by a radio frequency (RF) or optical effectors during an engagement with a threat missile.

The Navy’s ICS will be responsible for coordinating and controlling the operation of defensive effectors (both hard-kill and soft-kill) for both own-ship and force-level engagements. To maximize the utility of soft-kill (electromagnetic) effectors, and hence minimize employment of limited hard-kill resources, the combat system requires a capability to assess the effectiveness of electromagnetic effectors to determine if (and when) they have neutralized a threat, so that the effector may be reassigned to the next threat. To address this requirement, PSI will develop and evaluate a real-time tactical assessment service to rapidly estimate the degree of impact that an electromagnetic effector has induced on a threat, so that reliable and timely effector reassignment decisions may be made.

The PSI algorithms will support a broad range of decoys, jammers, and directed energy effectors, using a parametric approach for describing both the capabilities and the expected effect axes for each class of threat. These algorithms will be designed to continuously update the effector impact assessment as new sensor measurements are obtained. They will operate as an ensemble of real-time microservices deployed within the ICS, fully compatible with the associated architectural standards.

For more information contact:

Dr. Jay Giblin
Group Leader, Exploitation Technologies
jgiblin@psicorp.com
Physical Sciences Inc.
Office: (978) 689-0003

Acknowledgement of Sponsorship: This work is supported under a contract with the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA). This support does not constitute an express or implied endorsement on the part of the Government.