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WAFER-SCALE PIEZOELECTRIC BIO-ORGANIC THIN FILMS
\r\n\r\nUW-Madison researchers have developed a flexible piezoelectric thin film, and method of manufacture. It has a polyvinyl… more\r\n\r\nUW-Madison researchers have developed a flexible piezoelectric thin film, and method of manufacture. It has a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-glycine-PVA sandwich heterostructure. The thin film is manufactured by evaporating the solvent from a glycine-PVA mixture solution. The film automatically assembles into the PVA-glycine-PVA sandwich heterostructure as it is salted out. Strong hydrogen bonding between the oxygen atoms in glycine and hydroxyl groups on PVA chains are responsible for the nucleation and growth of the piezoelectric y-glycine and alignment of the domain orientation. less
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Primary:
Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF)
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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Zero-Added-Loss Entangled Photon Multiplexing Source
This technology is a scheme for optical entanglement distribution in quantum networks based on a quasi-deterministic entangled … moreThis technology is a scheme for optical entanglement distribution in quantum networks based on a quasi-deterministic entangled photon pair source. By combining heralded photonic Bell pair generation with spectral mode conversion to interface with quantum memories, the scheme eliminates switching losses due to multiplexing.
Based on numerical analyses, the protocol is estimated to achieve >102 ebits per second at memory multiplexing of 104 spin qubits for ground distance >104 km, with the spin-spin Bell state fidelity exceeding 99%. The architecture presents a potential blueprint for realizing global-scale quantum networks in the near future.
Global markets for quantum applications maintain high growth across many disciplines during this decade despite the many problems of the early 2020s. Many high-profile companies are investing and researching in the area, and it is likely they will begin integrating hybrid systems within the decade. Given that this innovation stands to impact global-scale networks, it may be extremely worthwhile to explore.
Background:
Multiplexing allows higher single-photon probabilities and lower contamination from higher-order photon states. It can be achieved through using time, space, or frequency degrees of freedom to parallelize spontaneous photon creation across modes, then actively switch the photons into a single output mode based on feedback from heralding detection events.
Although single photons are ideal for application purposes, often, more than one photon is produced by a source. Once produced, the state tends to encounter nonzero optical loss before reaching the application. This loss is a transformation that results in a state that contains both vacuum and multiphoton components along with the desired single photon.
Applications:
- Secure communications
- Aerospace networks
- Optical entanglement distribution
- Blueprint for global-scale quantum networks
Advantages:
- Zero added loss
- Applicable to global-scale networks
- High market growth across disciplines
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Primary:
University of Arizona
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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Low Complexity Memory Decoding and Apparatus for LDPC Codes
This technology presents a new class of finite precision multilevel decoders for low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes … moreThis technology presents a new class of finite precision multilevel decoders for low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes. These decoders are much lower in complexity compared to the standard belief propagation (BP) decoder. Messages utilized by these decoders are quantized to certain levels based on the number of bits allowed for representation in hardware. A message update function specifically defined as part of the invention, is used to determine the outgoing message at the variable node, and the simple min operation along with modulo 2 sum of signs is used at the check node. These decoders improve the iterative decoding process on finite length graphs and have the potential to outperform the standard floating-point BP decoder in the error floor region.
Background:
Error-correcting codes are indispensable for any modern digital communication system which requires reliable transmission and/or storage of digital data. A class of error-correcting codes called low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes, that were originally discovered by Gallager in the 1960's and rediscovered some thirty years later, have sparked a widespread interest in the field of coding theory. The remarkable performance of LDPC codes as well as their simple and efficient high-speed implementations have made them very attractive for use in a plethora of applications ranging from wireless communication and deep-space communication systems to magnetic storage media.
In the past few years, a considerable amount of research has been dedicated towards constructing LDPC codes that have good distance properties, and finding better iterative decoders that enable simpler hardware implementations as well as have good asymptotic performance. Richardson et. al. in proposed the technique of density evolution under BP decoding in order to determine the asymptotic decoding threshold of a particular code and suggested using this analysis in order to optimize the code's profile for the best possible decoding threshold.
Applications:
- Code theory
- Low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes
Advantages:
- Improves the iterative decoding process
- More precise
- Better performance than standard belief propagation decoders
Status: issued U.S. patent # 8,458,556 less
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Primary:
University of Arizona
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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Generalized BEP Relationships for the Prediction of Activation Energies via Machine Learning
At the heart of computational catalyst design lies the construction of a suitable reaction network and … moreAt the heart of computational catalyst design lies the construction of a suitable reaction network and the determination of reaction and activation energies for each step for a specific set of, for instance, metals. This technology aims to enable the creation of a sophisticated activation energy predictor / modeler that will enable the investigation and development of chemical reactions through an optimized catalyst.
Utilizing machine learning, this technology seeks to revolutionize the catalyst design process by drawing from vast datasets to make more informed decisions. This holistic approach ensures that researchers can hone in on the most effective catalysts without the intensive time investments traditionally required.
Background:
Current methods require sophisticated teams working iteratively with best guesses to develop an optimized reaction. This technology aims to significantly improve the workflow for these teams by many magnitudes. Improving the number of options being analyzed and solving more problems and applications. While previously the identification of more efficient catalysts relied on the intuition of researchers in selecting and evaluating a small number of new compounds for a given reaction. However, today large search spaces can be screened using descriptor-based approaches obtained from computational work alone.
With the integration of machine learning, the reliance on human intuition diminishes, paving the way for more systematic and data-driven evaluations. This shift not only accelerates the research process but also eliminates potential human biases, ensuring that the most viable catalyst options are consistently brought to the forefront.
Applications:
- Chemical industry
- Pharmaceutical research
- Biochemical process optimization
Advantages:
- Greater efficiency
- Cost savings
- Predictive
- Accelerated research timeline
- Consistency in catalyst evaluation
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Primary:
University of Arizona
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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Reconfigurable Space Telescope for Long Duration Observations
This invention is a reconfigurable space telescope with the capabilities of a Schmidt Cassegrain telescope. The invention … moreThis invention is a reconfigurable space telescope with the capabilities of a Schmidt Cassegrain telescope. The invention has deployable structures and mechanisms for optical reconfiguration and is able to switch the focal length of its primary optics, allowing for both wide field surveying and targeted observations for near earth observations and space situational awareness. Application can also be extended to Earth observations for scientific or commercial purposes. The telescope can be packaged within standard CubeSat units, allowing for significant reduction in cost and complexity. Ultimately this modular telescope system will help to bring more aperture and modularity to the CubeSat class, enabling more affordable space telescopes, diversifying observations, and opening access to a wider scientific community.
Background:
Space missions with the focus on observations and surveillance of near-earth objects have been increasing. However, current designs of space observation systems are costly to produce and launch as well as being reliant on non-standardized space bus designs. This new telescope design solves these challenges with deployable and reconfigurable optical system, representing a breakthrough in the capabilities and significant step towards more inexpensive, effective space-based observatories.
Applications:
- Near-earth object detection
- Astronomical surveillance
- Earth observation
- Situational space awareness
Advantages:
- Less expensive
- Reduced complexity
- More aperture and modularity
- Higher object-capture sensitivity
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Primary:
University of Arizona
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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Small Spacecraft & Small Robot Lighting System for Navigation, Identification and Communications
Spacecraft Optimized Lighting-communications Architecture for Robust Integrated Systems (SOLARIS) is a framework that utilizes advanced lighting … moreSpacecraft Optimized Lighting-communications Architecture for Robust Integrated Systems (SOLARIS) is a framework that utilizes advanced lighting and software to enhance communications, tracking, navigation, and security in small spacecraft and robotic systems such as rovers, CubeSats, and more. The framework outlines an entire system to integrate lighting into a spacecraft/space robot. Lighting display formats can be customized and can be connected by wire or wirelessly to host spacecraft or robots. SOLARIS also includes design software that balances design execution on spacecraft, rovers, space infrastructure based on task needs.
Whether designing lighting communication systems for small CubeSats or large interplanetary probes, SOLARIS scales to accommodate diverse spacecraft sizes and mission complexities. The modular architecture is customizable, allowing users to incorporate new lighting technologies, adapt to evolving mission requirements, and remain at the forefront of spacecraft illumination design. With SOLARIS, spacecraft designers can confidently create illumination systems that optimize energy efficiency, enhance scientific observations, and support the success of missions, from LEO to Cislunar space to deep space.
Background:
As space traffic increases exponentially, effective space traffic management becomes imperative to prevent collisions and ensure uninhibited movement. Moreover, the preservation of satellite assets in orbit, pivotal for sustaining essential services on Earth, enhances the urgency of optimizing spacecraft operations.
Applications:
- Light-based communications system for use with:
- Small spacecraft
- CubeSats
- Rovers
- Other space-based robotic systems
Advantages:
- Performs visual communication
- Customizable lighting display formats
- Enhances communications, tracking, navigation, and security
- Scalable for different spacecraft sizes
- Can work with wired or wireless connection
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Primary:
University of Arizona
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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Small Satellite Docking Adapter for Power Transfer and Structural Applications
The invention is a small satellite docking adapter that can be used to assemble larger spacecraft … moreThe invention is a small satellite docking adapter that can be used to assemble larger spacecraft, large structures, and transfer resources such as power. The docking adapter can be used to mate two objects in space that would otherwise be at different angles or are spatially misaligned. The invention also includes a software for CubeSats called Adapter Design And Positioning Tool for Spacecraft (ADAPTS) which is used to design and optimize the locations of docking adapters on spacecraft.
Background:
Docking systems are critical for various operations such as on-orbit servicing, refueling, assembly, upgrading satellite systems, and safe disposal at the end of a satellite's life. Satellite docking systems are used in multiple end-user verticals, including space agencies, communication satellite operators, defense sectors, and research institutions. However, challenges include the steep costs associated with developing these sophisticated systems, the technical hurdles of space docking procedures, the stringent regulatory space environment, and the looming threat of space debris.
Current solutions for the aforementioned challenges are solved by opting for small satellite launches which solves the high expense problem and the inventions of small satellite adapters with the ability to transfer data and power. This led to the development of the invention to license.
Applications:
- Space exploration
- In-space assembly
- Low Earth Orbit satellite servicing
Advantages:
- Fits within 1U size satellites
- Capable of power and data transfer
- Cost-effective production
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Primary:
University of Arizona
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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A Robotic Space Station System for a Modular Surveying Telescope
This invention outlines a new robotic observation space station concept. It is assembled in space by … moreThis invention outlines a new robotic observation space station concept. It is assembled in space by docking standardized CubeSats with telescope payloads, forming a rotating truss-like structure that is suitable for full sky surveys. Station reconfiguration is incorporated into operations to respond to multi-mission requirements and follow-up observations.
The proposed design provides a solution to the cost and complexity of the astronomical survey while introducing additional capabilities. This concept also provides access to underrepresented fields of astronomy and allows for easier access by the scientific community.
Background:
Previous and current platforms demonstrate the advantages of a continuous rotating spacecraft for full sky surveillance as opposed to stationary observation systems. Dedicated spacecrafts have been utilized to complete surveys of the galaxy, from stars to near-earth asteroids and satellites. However, these systems are causing a significant barrier to the necessary increase in spacecraft fleets and capabilities. With the modularity of the robotic space station concept, it will allow for multi-mission applications without the need for multiple, independent, and costly spacecrafts.
Applications:
- Near-earth object detection
- Astronomical surveillance
Advantages:
- Less expensive
- Multi-mission capability
- Reconfigures autonomously
- Rotating observation system (vs stationary/fixed systems)
- All-in-one space station
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Primary:
University of Arizona
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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High-Sensitivity Non-Destructive Evaluation/Testing Method for the Detection of Defects in Structures using the Geometric Phase of Acoustic Waves
This novel, highly sensitive non-destructive testing method analyzes the spacial behavior of acoustic waves to … moreThis novel, highly sensitive non-destructive testing method analyzes the spacial behavior of acoustic waves to detect cracks and defects in objects and structures, with applications across many industries. This method’s sensitivity allows it to detect even slight flaws and defects, and to identify cracks through topographical complexities like welds and bends. Complexities like these can cause extraneous propagation in waves used for non-destructive testing, creating interference that can hide cracks from many current non-destructive testing methods. This method is less affected by that interference and can detect cracks that could otherwise go unnoticed.
Background:
As infrastructure and technology advance, the complexity of products and structures become more and more complex. To ensure their reliability and structural integrity, more advanced non-destructive testing methods are needed. Non-destructive testing is the evaluation of objects for flaws and cracks without causing damage in the testing process. Many current non-destructive testing methods are ineffective around welds, bends, and other structural complexities, and often miss small defects and perturbations. This method’s high sensitivity allows for more precision in crack detection even in complex objects, ensuring a higher level of safety of technologies across a variety of industries.
Applications:
- Metal testing
- Civil works
- Mining
- Manufacturing
- Aerospace
Advantages:
- Higher sensitivity
- Non-destructive testing method
- Novel method using acoustic waves
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Primary:
University of Arizona
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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Assessing Microservice System Evolution through Quantitative Reasoning
The invention addresses the challenges associated with microservices architecture by introducing a novel approach that combines … moreThe invention addresses the challenges associated with microservices architecture by introducing a novel approach that combines self-contained microservices with centralized assessment methods. While the advantage of microservices lies in their streamlined management and deployment, the decentralized nature of these services often leads to scattered knowledge across the system, making it difficult to comprehend the holistic picture. The technology introduces quantification metrics as indicators for investigating system architecture evolution and reasoning about changes across various versions.
The innovation specifically focuses on two holistic viewpoints: inter-service interaction and data modeling perspectives. These perspectives are derived through static analysis of the system's source code. By providing a structured method for assessing changes and understanding the evolution of the system, the technology aims to simplify system maintenance in dynamic environments where substantial changes can impact both individual microservices and the entire system. Overall, this invention aims to enhance the comprehensibility and manageability of evolving microservices architectures.
Background:
The technology seeks to address the challenges associated with managing and comprehending evolving microservices architectures. The problem lies in the decentralized nature of microservices, which scatters knowledge across the system and makes it challenging to understand the holistic picture, especially as these systems undergo continuous changes. Current solutions often lack centralized assessment methods, leading to increased complexity in system maintenance. This technology stands out by introducing quantification metrics as indicators, offering a systematic approach to investigating system architecture evolution and understanding changes across different versions. Unlike existing approaches, it focuses on holistic viewpoints derived through static analysis of the source code, providing a more structured and comprehensive means of addressing the dynamic nature of microservices. By enhancing the understanding of inter-service interaction and data modeling perspectives, this technology aims to streamline system management and maintenance in the face of ongoing evolution.
Applications:
- Software development
- IT infrastructure
- System maintenance and optimization
Advantages:
- Enhanced comprehensibility
- Standardized metric
- Faster decision-making
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Primary:
University of Arizona
Date posted:
Apr 24, 2024
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