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MEMS Based Optical Systems

Many components used in today’s industrial and military applications are embedded into larger systems; these components are required to transmit and/or receive data. Since these components exist in harsh environments, have to transmit large quantities of data, or have to transmit sensitive information, networks are constructed using optical fiber to relay traffic from component to component. However, fiber optic networks are finicky due to their need to maintain the microscopic dimensions of the optical fiber.

This research effort explores the needs of fiber optic systems using Micro Electro Mechanical Systems in manufacturing, embedded, and tactical applications.

High Assurance IP Encryption Discovery Server

The Global Information Grid (GIG) is the cornerstone of the Defense Department’s info-centric approach to war-fighting. The GIG is a mixture of networks providing end to end connectivity for personnel and their equipment. Since the GIG is intended for both US forces and its coalition members, its size and its security must designed and prepared before widespread deployment.

This research addresses size and security issues associated with the GIG.

Text Box: Trusted Network Mapping Network mapping is a technique that allows IT staff members to quickly find and eliminate failed (or failing) equipment in a network. However, when securing a network like the Global Information Grid (GIG), the means of developing a network map are eliminated. Therefore, we anticipate that as the GIG develops, the administrators will quickly loose their ability to quickly resolve issues and minimize the network’s downtime. Failed communications systems could lead to loss of life. However, no one should reduce the security measures in an attempt to allow for a network map to be created—reduced security mechanisms could lead to compromised mission security. This research seeks to develop a system where the security elements of the GIG can be by-passed (or enhanced) allowing a network map to be created without diminishing the GIG’s established security mechanisms.

Robust Applications

Equipment used in today’s industrial complexes communicate with operators providing up to the minute alerts indicating system anomalies. However, these systems also produce many false positives and false negatives. The false positives are an error condition causing operators to unnecessarily check to equipment that has not failed. And, the false negatives occur when no error condition is found or reported.

Both the false positives and false negatives impact the bottom line of any organization’s budget—false positives reduce staff productivity and the false negatives lead to longer down times when products are not being made.

This research explores the applications used in industrial systems to find ways in which the equipment reporting can become more robust. The goal of this research is the total elimination of false readings for manufacturing equipment.

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