Multiphase Effluents Flowmeter

Hedgefog Research Inc. (HFR) proposes to develop a new Multiphase Effluents Flowmeter (MEF) – a standalone, space-qualifiable, non-invasive mass flowmeter sensor for use in measuring the flow of a complex mix of effluents resulting from waste processors onboard spacecraft. In Phase I of the project, we plan to focus on demonstrating the basic feasibility of meeting the NASA mission requirements. In Phase II, we plan to integrate the prototype hybrid MEF sensor with HFR’s proprietary software algorithm, and construct a laboratory test bench for carrying out sensor performance characterization. Phase I work will permit us to address the most significant technological risks in developing the MEF sensor, prove the application concept, and help us achieve Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3-4 at the completion of the six-month project. Phase II development will advance the technology to TRL 5-6, with a full-scale integrated prototype built and tested in the laboratory environment.

MEF sensor system promises a low-cost, versatile solution not just to NASA but all branches of the Government that employ waste processor systems, as well as other effluent handling and distribution installations. Besides all the players in the aerospace and energy sector, a number of prime contractors operating in military supply chains, including General Dynamics, GE, Westinghouse, and others stand to benefit from our technology.

Nearly all real-world implementations of complex effluent distribution systems can benefit from the mass transport measurement fidelity offered by the MEF. In addition to the waste processing plants, the need to monitor the mass flow of a multiphase medium is ubiquitous in power plants, centralized municipal and building heating systems, shipboard power, ground vehicles and other applications.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.