Unmanned Radiation Measurements

Project Description:  Unmanned Radiation Measurements Robust measurements of neutron and gamma radiation is necessary to analyzeradiation exposure to the Navy and public. Radiation measurements are performed at the pier and up to 30 feet above the water level and underwater close to the ship. Innovative unmanned platforms using robotic technologies to make these radiation measurements is desirable for the future of the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program.  NNL requests submissions of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV), and other remotely operated vehicle (ROV) technologies for external radiation measurements. All proposals should address how well they meet the requirements and identify any technological gaps. Proposals should identify how the technology will fulfill the overall objective.  Required characteristics include:•    Ability to navigate and maneuver to a specific location•    Ability to hover or remain stationary in one location•    Continuous

operation with minimal interruption (target 24 hours, at least 8 hours)•    Transmission of real-time measurement data•    Built-in data encryption options•    Operable in extremely hot and freezing ambient temperatures as defined by the National Weather Service•    Operable in salt-water environments•    Ability to take measurements near structures (target at least 3 feet)•    Affordable maintenance•    Product support for at least 10 years•    Robust, does not break when bumped gently•    For UAS, adhere to DFARS 252.225-7972 Prohibition on the Procurement of Foreign-Made Unmanned Aircraft SystemsAdditional required detector characteristics include:•    Gamma detectoro    Minimum Range (0.01 - 1000 mrem/h); Minimum readability (0.01 mrem/h)o    Minimal energy response difference between 0.662 and 7 MeV.  Full Range Energy response curve for selected technology/probe will be provided. o    Gamma detection capabilities comply with applicable ANSI and/or ISO Standards (e.g., ANSI N323AB, N42-17A, N42-17C, N42-33; ISO 11929-1)o    Minimum scaler capabilities (5 minutes)•    Neutron detectoro    Minimum Range (0.05 - 1000 mrem/h); Minimum readability (0.01 mrem/h) Minimum energy Range (0.025 eV to 10 MeV)o    Neutron detection capabilities comply with applicable ANSI and/or ISO Standards (e.g., ANSI N323AB, N42-17A, N42-17C; ISO 11929-1, 10647)o    Minimum scaler capabilities (5 minutes)•    Beta and alpha detector capability is not required•    Long lifetime to failure•    Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) resistantDesired, but not required characteristics include:•    3D radiation visualization and mapping of measurements•    Local positioning system (LPS) to track measurement locations•    Ability to pre-program LPS measurement locations and execute the sequence autonomously•    Ability to take and transmit neutron and gamma measurements simultaneously•    Collision avoidance software•    ROV with interchangeable payload capability•    Waterproof equipment•    Radiation-hardened electronics•    Ability to operate in all United States coastal climates and extreme weather conditions such as wind gusts and strong currents.•    Does not require special precautions for safe handling or storage, such as hazardous material handling or special permits.A Pre-proposal conference will be held 11/10/2022 at 2PM-3PM EST.  For an invite to the meeting, please contact general email listed below.