January 01, 2024
In Phase I, Forward Edge-AI also developed new signal processing and ML/AI techniques to enable the detection of trace chemicals and microbes. Next, Forward Edge-AI, augmented a miniature, Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) Raman spectrometer with ML/AI, new signal processing techniques, and SERS for quick stand-off identification of trace chemicals and microbes (e.g., COVID) in a field setting, thereby bringing laboratory grade science to the edge. In Phase I, we demonstrated the ability to detect 32 different strains of bacteria and viruses down (100 CFU and 100 PFU limits of detection).
Why it matters
Field detection of trace chemicals and microbes remains a major challenge—labs are bulky, slow, and ill-suited for expeditionary or remote environments.
Handheld Raman spectroscopy exists, but sensitivity, noise and usability issues limit real-world use. Forward Edge-AI’s Phase I project aimed to close that gap.
What we did
Project: Phase I – Artificially Intelligent Handheld Raman Spectrometer
Augmented a commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) Raman spectrometer with ML/AI algorithms, advanced signal-processing and Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS).
Developed hardware: built a sample-holder and probe around SERS consumable for field use (e.g., glass test-tube inside metal case).
Demonstrated sensitivity: detected 32 different bacterial and viral strains at limits ~100 CFU and ~100 PFU.
Created a federated-learning/Blockchain-incentive based threat-library of Raman spectra: networked Android device, federated learning, crypto-incentives for contributions.
Surveyed miniature Raman hardware (as low as ~$150 parts) and initiated licensing for manufacture.
Below is a spreadsheet containing the Raman spectra of viruses and bacteria collected:
Forward Edge-AI developed a new signal processing technique by converting the Raman Spectra into audio as shown in the image below. Click below to access project videos:
The result
A handheld Android-device capable of field-ready detection of trace chemicals and microbes.
Enhanced sensitivity & noise reduction through SERS + ML/AI, enabling “lab-grade” capabilities at the edge.
A threat-library ecosystem that enables continuous updating of detection models via federated learning and crypto incentives.
A technology pathway for scaling within CBRN, consumer, water-testing, life-sciences, pharmaceuticals and more.
The research included a Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology to manage the governance of Raman Spectra and award crypto currency to researchers who contribute Raman spectra.
Federated Learning Marketplace of Raman Spectra
Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) Substrates Developed
Why you should care
Enables rapid detection of chemical/biological threats outside traditional labs—important for defense, public-health, environmental monitoring.
Shifts costs and logistics: from lab-bound, high-cost tests to portable, low-cost, immediate detection.
Positioned for gov-procurement: the SBIR Phase I has laid groundwork for Phase II/III and sole-source pathways.
Related Research:
Stakeholders
Award a Phase III Sole Source Contract
How to engage
A Federal Agency may enter into a Phase III SBIR/STTR agreement at any time with a Phase I OR II Awardee. A subcontract to a Federally funded prime contract may be a Phase III award.
Step 1 Requirements Document: Prepare a Statement of Work (SOW), Statement of Objectives (SOO), or Performance Work Statement (PWS), or use our automated tool to generate a document
Step 2 Market Research: Use this page as your market research, or view a list of other eligible projects, then request a Rough Order Magnitude (ROM) from Forward Edge-AI
Step 3 Funding: Performed by the government
Step 4 Sole Source Justification: A Memorandum for the Record is required in lieu of a J&A or SSJ
Step 5 Provide Requirements Package to Contracting Officer: Performed by the government
Step 6 Solicitation: Performed by the government
Step 7 Pre-Negotiation Memorandum: Use GSA CALC as a benchmark to determine fair and reasonableness of our ROM
Step 8: Contract Award: Performed by the government
Language for Step 4 (Determination and Finding):
Artificial Intelligence (CNN/RNN), Android ATAK, Federated Learning Marketplace, Machine Learning, Microsoft Azure, signal processing (Wavelet and Fourier transformation), Raman Spectroscopy
Contested logistics (fuel and water quality testing), Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) detection, explosives detection, Expeditionary Environments
List of Phase III contracts awarded so far
Come back soon
SBIR DATA RIGHTS:
Awarding Agency: US Air Force
Contract Number: FA864921P1006
Contractor Name: Forward Edge-AI, Inc.
Contractor Address: 10108 Carter Canyon, San Antonio, TX 78255
Expiration of SBIR Data: 14 April 2041
Protection Period: 20 years from award of contract on 14 April 2021
The Government's rights to use, modify, reproduce, release, perform, display, or disclose technical data or computer software marked with this legend are restricted during the period shown as provided in paragraph (b)(5) of the Rights In Other Than Commercial Technical Data and Computer Software–Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program clause contained in the above identified contract. After the expiration date shown above, the Government has perpetual government purpose rights as provided in paragraph (b)(5) of that clause. Any reproduction of technical data, computer software, or portions thereof marked with this legend must also reproduce the markings.
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