Low-Power Radio and Image-Sensor Package, Phase I

One of the most effective sensor modalities for situational awareness is imagery. While typically high bandwidth and relegated to analog wireless communications, continuing advances in consumer IC development hold the promise to revolutionize image data collection and its transport. In this effort, Toyon proposes to develop a high performance wireless video node that offers not only ultra low cost and power consumption but is also particularly well suited to NASA mission needs. Our solution includes the use of not only advanced ICs, but also custom wireless communication protocols that enable transport of high frame-rate video over bandwidth-constrained links. In particular, Toyon will leverage CMOS sensor, H.264, and UHF transceiver ICs along with an Arm7-based MCU, which includes a variety of open-standard data connectivity options. As such, our solution is both highly-integrated and offers well-defined data interfaces in order to speed integration into flight systems. Toyon will leverage a proven novel medium access control (MAC) layer that employs dynamic channel allocation (DCA). We will provide ah hoc connectivity along with multi-hop capability through a source-driven network layer.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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.