Hung D. Nguyen and Gynelle C. Steele

Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

An Overview of SBIR Phase 2 Physical Sciences 

and Biomedical Technologies in Space

NASA/TM—2015-218857

August 2015
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Hung D. Nguyen and Gynelle C. Steele

Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, Ohio

An Overview of SBIR Phase 2 Physical Sciences 

and Biomedical Technologies in Space

NASA/TM—2015-218857

August 2015

National Aeronautics and

Space Administration

Glenn Research Center

Cleveland, Ohio 44135
Available from

Trade names and trademarks are used in this report for identifi cation 

only. Their usage does not constitute an offi cial endorsement, 

either expressed or implied, by the National Aeronautics and 

Space Administration.

Level of Review: This material has been technically reviewed by technical management. 

NASA STI Program

Mail Stop 148

NASA Langley Research Center

Hampton, VA 23681-2199

National Technical Information Service

5285 Port Royal Road

Springfi eld, VA 22161

703-605-6000

This report is available in electronic form at http://www.sti.nasa.gov/ and http://ntrs.nasa.gov/
Abstract 

Technological innovation is the overall focus of NASA’s Small Business Innovation Research 

(SBIR) program. The program invests in the development of innovative concepts and 

technologies to help NASA’s mission directorates address critical research and development 

needs for agency projects. 

 

This report highlights innovative SBIR Phase II projects from 2007-2012 specifically addressing 

areas in physical sciences and biomedical technologies in space, which is one of six core 

competencies at NASA Glenn Research Center. There are twenty two technologies featured with 

emphasis on a wide spectrum of applications such as reusable handheld electrolyte, sensor for 

bone markers, wideband single crystal transducer, mini treadmill for musculoskeletal, and much 

more. Each article in this report describes an innovation, technical objective, and highlights 

NASA commercial and industrial applications. 

This report serves as an opportunity for NASA personnel including engineers, researchers, and 

program managers to learn of NASA SBIR’s capabilities that might be crosscutting into this 

technology area. As the result, it would cause collaborations and partnerships between the small 

companies and NASA Programs and Projects resulting in benefit to both SBIR companies and 

NASA. 

An Overview of SBIR Phase 2 Physical Sciences and 

Biomedical Technologies in Space 

Hung D. Nguyen and Gynelle C. Steele 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration 

Glenn Research Center 

Cleveland, Ohio 44135 

NASA/TM—2015-218857 1
NASA photo

The Reusable Handheld Electrolyte 

and Lab Technology for Humans 

(rHEALTH) Sensor 

Biomedical analysis sensor shrinks hospital lab to single 

point-of-care (POC) device

The DNA Medicine Institute has produced a reusable microfluidic device that 

performs rapid, low-cost cell counts and measurements of electrolytes, proteins, 

and other biomarkers. The rHEALTH sensor is compact and portable, and it 

employs cutting-edge fluorescence detection optics, innovative microfluidics, 

and nanostrip reagents to perform a suite of hematology, chemistry, and 

biomarker assays from a single drop of blood. 

A handful of current portable POC devices provide generalized blood analysis, 

but they perform only a few tests at a time. These devices also rely on disposable 

components and depend on diverse detection technologies to complete routine 

tests—all ill-suited for space travelers on extended missions. In contrast, the 

rHEALTH sensor integrates sample introduction, processing, and detection 

with a compact, resource-conscious, and efficient design.

Developed to monitor astronaut health on the International Space Station and 

during long-term space flight, this microscale lab analysis tool also has terrestrial 

applications that include POC diagnostics conducted at a patient’s bedside, in a 

doctor’s office, and in a hospital.

DNA Medicine Institute illustration

Applications

NASA 

` Real-time health monitoring and 

intervention

` Collecting electrolyte and 

complete blood count (CBC) 

measurements

` Measuring cardiac biomarkers for 

chest pain to test for myocardial 

infarction

` Monitoring astronaut renal 

function to assess kidney volume 

status

` Tracking bone biomarkers and 

calcium levels to assess bone loss 

and remodeling

Commercial

` Real-time health monitoring and 

intervention

` Measuring daily hematocrit 

for patients on anticoagulation 

therapy

` Detecting acute myocardial 

damage

` Tracking white blood cell counts 

throughout prolonged antibiotic 

courses

` Monitoring daily renal function 

of patients with kidney transplants or those with end-stage 

renal disease

` Measuring body fluid status of 

elite athletes to guard against 

dehydration

` Daily monitoring of electrolyte 

status for individuals taking 

diuretics

Phase II Objectives

` Complete prototype concept design 

and review

` Finalize subassembly optics testing,

fluidics handling, electrical 

components, and software

` Establish micron chip prototyping,

silica chip capabilities, and fingerstick 

blood collection device

` Determine accurate and repeatable 

CBC with differential for physiological 

samples

` Conduct blood electrolyte experiments 

to test system accuracy and precision

` Develop ratiometric mixing capabilities 

for the spiral vortexer

` Conduct reagent shelf-life tests

` Develop nanoliter reagent and flushing 

protocols for chip reuse

)LULÄ[Z

` Allows rapid, low-cost analysis of a 

wide range of samples

` Reduces mass and volume of POC 

diagnostic technology

` Does not rely on single-use disposable 

components

Firm Contact

DNA Medicine Institute

Eugene Chan

echan@dnamedinstitute.com

727 Massachusetts Avenue, Lower Level

Cambridge, MA 02139–3323

Phone: 617–233–7656 

Proposal Number: 07-2 X12.03-8958

NASA/TM—2015-218857 2
3

Nanoscale Test Strips for 

Multiplexed Blood Analysis 

Enables real-time, comprehensive health monitoring

A critical component of the DNA Medicine Institute’s Reusable Handheld 

Electrolyte and Lab Technology for Humans (rHEALTH) sensor are nanoscale 

test strips, or nanostrips, that enable multiplexed blood analysis. Nanostrips are 

conceptually similar to the standard urinalysis test strip, but the strips are shrunk 

down a billionfold to the microscale. Each nanostrip can have several sensor 

pads that fluoresce in response to different targets in a sample. The strips carry 

identification tags that permit differentiation of a specific panel from hundreds 

of other nanostrip panels during a single measurement session.

In Phase I of the project, the company fabricated, tested, and demonstrated 

functional parathyroid hormone and vitamin D nanostrips for bone metabolism, and thrombin aptamer and immunoglobulin G antibody nanostrips. In 

Phase II, numerous nanostrips were developed to address key space flight–based 

medical needs: assessment of bone metabolism, immune response, cardiac 

status, liver metabolism, and lipid profiles. This unique approach holds genuine 

promise for space-based portable biodiagnostics and for point-of-care (POC) 

health monitoring and diagnostics here on Earth.

Applications

DNA Medicine Institute i llustration

NASA 

` Routine assessment of bone 

biomarkers

` Rapid assessment of altered 

immune response biomarkers

` Detection of infection, 

immunocompromised states, 

and hematological malignancies

` Measurement of cardiac 

biomarkers

` Liver function assessment

` Lipid measurements

Commercial

` Detection of acute myocardial 

damage

` POC monitoring of bisphosphonate therapy for patients with 

osteoporosis

` Diagnoses of acute cholecystitis

` Daily assessment of immune 

functions for patients with 

autoimmune disorders

` Study of bone remodeling for 

patients with Paget’s disease

` Evaluation of effects of drugs and 

diet on liver function

Phase II Objectives

` Implement rapid nanostrip assay 

capability

` Develop mix-and-run assays

` Establish in-house aptamer 

production

` Develop lyophilized nanostrip 

technology with lyoprotectant:

t Perform accelerated stability 

tests on lyophilized reagents

t Perform extended testing on 

antibody and aptamer nanostrips 

` Develop bone antibody, bone 

aptamer, immune antibody, and 

immune aptamer nanostrip panel

` Develop cardiac, liver, and lipid 

assay nanostrip panels 

)LULÄ[Z

` Enables massive multiplexing that 

has the potential to allow hundreds 

of measurements from a single 

session

` Facilitates home-based tests and 

measurements

` Contributes significantly to the 

evolving needs of space medicine, 

biomedical research, and POC 

diagnostics

Firm Contact

DNA Medicine Institute

Eugene Chan

echan@dnamedinstitute.com

727 Massachusetts Avenue, Lower Level

Cambridge, MA 02139–3323

Phone: 617–233–7656 

Proposal Number: 08-2 X10.01-9385

NASA/TM—2015-218857 3
4

Handheld Fluorescence Resonance 

Energy Transfer (FRET)-Aptamer 

Sensor for Bone Markers 

Portable technology evaluates bone loss

Astronauts lose significant bone mass during lengthy space flights. NASA 

wishes to monitor this bone loss in order to develop nutritional and exercise 

countermeasures. Operational Technologies Corporation (OpTech) has developed a handheld device that quantifies bone loss in a spacecraft environment. 

The innovation works by adding fluorescent dyes and quenchers to aptamers to 

enable pushbutton, one-step bind-and-detect FRET assays that can be freezedried, rehydrated with body fluids, and used to quantify bone loss.

In Phase I, OpTech developed several 15-minute specific polyclonal 

FRET-aptamer assays with low nanogram/milliliter sensitivity. The company 

also cloned and sequenced 110 bone marker and calcidiol aptamers. During 

Phase II, OpTech freeze-dried and packaged optimized FRET-aptamer assays 

for use with a plastic cuvette and body fluid collection system. The assay system 

is coupled with a handheld, battery-operated fluorometer customized to detect 

bone markers and calcidiol in urine and serum. Sensitive and accurate 

(low ng/mL detection with correlation coefficients >0.95), the innovation 

produces results in 15–30 minutes.

Black Hole Quencher is a registered trademark of Biosearch Technologies, Inc.

Applications

NASA 

` Astronaut self-monitoring 

of bone loss and bone loss 

treatments (e.g., vitamin D 

augmentation)

` Monitoring other clinical 

analytes (e.g., glucose, environmental microbes in water) with 

development of appropriate 

FRET assays

Commercial

` Rapid point-of-care diagnostic 

system for osteoporosis and its 

treatment

` Monitoring system for bone 

repair following severe fractures 

and skeletal procedures

Phase II Objectives

` Synthesize red-region Black Hole 

Quencher® deoxyribonucleotide 

triphosphates (dNTPs)

` Screen all 110 Phase I aptamer 

sequences for best FRET with 

bone peptides, hydroxylysine, and 

25-hydroxyvitamin D3

` Complete three-dimensional modeling 

of selected aptamer targets

` Freeze-dry and retest FRET assays in 

serum and urine samples

` Coordinate optics and firmware 

changes for operation in red fluorescence window of serum and urine

` Develop software package

` Develop and produce plastic cuvette 

and body fluid sampling syringe system

` Integrate system components, 

including assays, handheld sensor, and 

laptop computer

)LULÄ[Z

` Rapid (15–30 minutes)

` Easy to use aboard a spacecraft, in 

a physician’s office, or at home with 

freeze-dried assay reagents

` Compact (handheld fluorometer)

OpTech illustration

Firm Contact

Operational Technologies Corporation 

John G. Bruno

john.bruno@otcorp.com

4100 NW Loop 410, Suite 230

San Antonio, TX 78229–4253

Phone: 210–731–0015 

Proposal Number: 07-2 X12.01-9625

NASA/TM—2015-218857 4
5

Thioaptamer Diagnostic 

System (TDS) 

Quickly identifies up to 32 biomarkers in a single sample

AM Biotechnologies, LLC, in partnership with Sandia National Laboratories, 

has developed a diagnostic device that quickly detects sampled biomarkers. 

The TDS quickly quantifies clinically relevant biomarkers using only microliters 

of a single sample. The system combines ambient-stable, long shelf-life affinity 

assays with handheld, microfluidic gel electrophoresis affinity assay quantification technology. The TDS is easy to use, operates in microgravity, and permits 

simultaneous quantification of 32 biomarkers.

In Phase I of the project, the partners demonstrated that a thioaptamer assay 

used in the microfluidic instrument could quantify a specific biomarker in 

serum in the low nanomolar range. The team also identified novel affinity 

agents to bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) and demonstrated their 

ability to detect BAP with the microfluidic instrument. In Phase II, AM Biotech 

expanded the number of ambient affinity agents and demonstrated a TDS 

prototype. In the long term, the clinical version of the TDS will provide a 

robust, flight-tested diagnostic capability for space exploration missions.

Applications

NASA 

` In-flight diagnostics for health 

research and monitoring

` Opportunities for novel biomarker discovery

` Research on the International 

Space Station (ISS) regarding human adaptation to 

microgravity

Commercial

` Clinical research tool for novel 

biomarker discovery

` Handheld diagnostic system for 

remote, resource-poor locations

` Rapid diagnostic device for use 

by first responders and physician 

offices

` Affordable diagnostic system for 

university research laboratories 

and companies with limited 

budgets

Phase II Objectives

` Optimize binding agents 

demonstrated in Phase I of the 

project

` Select additional binding agents for 

next round of biomarkers

` Improve assay performance in 

serum

` Develop stand-alone prototype for 

NASA demonstrations

)LULÄ[Z

` Eliminates the need to freeze 

samples on the ISS and return them 

to Earth for ground-based testing

` Operates in microgravity

` Is easy to use, self-contained, 

automated, and lightweight 

(<10 pounds)

` Requires minimal sample volumes 

(microliters)

` Is sensitive and rapid (<10 minutes) 

` Permits simultaneous quantitation 

of 8–32 biomarkers

` Offers long-term reagent stability at 

ambient temperatures

Firm Contact

AM Biotechnologies, LLC

Xianbin Yang

xianbin.yang@thioaptamer.com

12521 Gulf Freeway

Houston, TX 77034–4509

Phone: 832–379–2175

Proposal Number: 08-2 X10.01-9543

NASA/TM—2015-218857 5
Wideband Single Crystal 

Transducer for Bone 

Characterization 

Quantifying bone degradation with high-resolution 

ultrasound

TRS Technologies, Inc., has developed a wideband ultrasound diagnostic tool 

for quantifying bone degradation of astronauts during long-duration space 

missions. The tool measures backscatter, attenuation, reflectivity, and other 

ultrasound parameters of bone in the spine and hip. These parameters have 

been correlated with physiological bone density, structure, and porosity through 

systems that provide high fidelity but are not space-capable. 

In Phase I, TRS Technologies demonstrated that a compact ultrasound transducer with more than a 4-octave bandwidth could be produced using the special 

properties of single-crystal piezoelectrics and special processing techniques. (A 

4-octave bandwidth is 175 percent larger than that of conventional transducers.) 

In Phase II, the company extended the capabilities of the Phase I transducer by 

providing more sensitivity and optimizing the frequency content relative to the 

acoustic field. 

In addition to its use as a bone characterization tool, the technology can be used 

to examine space structures to evaluate microcrack progression over longduration missions. The technology also could be useful in wideband medical 

imaging.

Applications

NASA 

` Quantifying bone degradation

` Evaluating microcrack progression of space structures

Commercial

` Wideband medical imaging

` Cancer analysis

` Industrial and defense applications, with expansion to other 

frequency ranges

Phase II Objectives

` Optimize the Phase I transducer for 

sensitivity

` Test different transmit signals for 

optimum performance

` Demonstrate compatibility with 

electronics

` Confirm additional transducer 

capabilities over conventional 

systems by calibrating with other 

methods

)LULÄ[Z

` Low cost

` Simple to use

` Launch-capable

` Robust

` Nonionizing modality

AS NA p ot h o

Firm Contact

TRS Technologies, Inc.

Raffi Sahul

raffi@trstechnologies.com

2820 East College Avenue

State College, PA 16801–7548

Phone: 814–238–7485 ext. 248

Proposal Number: 10-2 X12.02-9668

NASA/TM—2015-218857 6
On-Orbit, Immuno-Based, 

Label-Free White Blood 

Cell Counting System with 

Microelectromechanical Sensor 

Technology (OILWBCS-MEMS) 

For counting multiple cell types in space flight and terrestrial environments

Aurora Flight Sciences, in partnership with Draper Laboratory, has developed a 

miniaturized system to count white blood cells in microgravity environments. 

The system uses MEMS technology to simultaneously count total white blood 

cells, the five white blood cell differential subgroups, and various lymphocyte 

subtypes. The OILWBCS-MEMS detection technology works by immobilizing 

an array of white blood cell–specific antibodies on small, gold-coated membranes. When blood flows across the membranes, specific cells’ surface protein 

antigens bind to their corresponding antibodies. This binding can be measured 

and correlated to cell counts.

In Phase I, the partners demonstrated surface chemistry sensitivity and 

specificity for total white blood cells and two lymphocyte subtypes. In Phase 

II, a functional prototype demonstrated end-to-end operation. This rugged, 

miniaturized device requires minimal blood sample preparation and will be 

useful for both space flight and terrestrial applications.

Applications

NASA 

` On-orbit white blood cell 

counting 

` Ground-based biomedical 

research and development

Commercial

` Immuno-based cell counting 

in biotechnology and medical 

industries

` Cell counting in remote 

locations:

t Battlefield environments

t Mobile triage units

t Medical centers in the 

developing world

Phase II Objectives

` Refine surface chemistry design

` Continue long-term storage studies

` Transfer surface chemistry to 

nanohole array device

` Miniaturize subsystem prototype 

design and development

` Integrate, test, and verify functional 

prototype

` Report results

)LULÄ[Z

` Simultaneous counting of multiple 

cell types

` High specificity and sensitivity

` Compact size

` Low power consumption

` Fully automated

Aurora Flight Sciences photo

Firm Contact

Aurora Flight Sciences

Jessica Edmonds

jedmonds@auror.aero

1 Broadway, 12th Floor

Cambridge, MA 02142–1189

Phone: 617–500–0552

Proposal Number: 08-2 X14.02-9864

NASA/TM—2015-218857 7
Observation Platform for Dynamic 

Biomedical and Biotechnology 

Experiments Using the International 

Space Station (ISS) Light 

Microscopy Module (LMM) 

Innovation will greatly accelerate ISS biomedical 

experiments

Techshot, Inc., has developed an observation platform for the LMM on the 

ISS that will enable biomedical and biotechnology experiments. The LMM 

Dynamic Stage consists of an electronics module and the first two of a planned 

suite of experiment modules. Specimens and reagent solutions can be injected 

into a small, hollow microscope slide—the heart of the innovation—via a 

combination of small reservoirs, pumps, and valves. 

A life science experiment module allows investigators to load up to two different 

fluids for on-orbit, real-time image cytometry. Fluids can be changed to initiate 

a process, fix biological samples, or retrieve suspended cells. A colloid science 

experiment module conducts microparticle and nanoparticle tests for investigation of colloid self-assembly phenomena. This module includes a hollow 

glass slide and heating elements for the creation of a thermal gradient from one 

end of the slide to the other. The electronics module supports both experiment 

modules and contains a unique illuminator/condenser for bright and dark field 

and phase contrast illumination, power supplies for two piezoelectric pumps, 

and controller boards for pumps and valves. This observation platform safely 

contains internal fluids and will greatly accelerate the research and development 

(R&D) cycle of numerous experiments, products, and services aboard the ISS.

Applications

NASA 

` On-orbit analysis of cultured 

cells from biotechnology 

experiments 

` Cultivation and analysis of 

microbial samples

` On-orbit blood analysis

` Real-time observations of cell 

growth and differentiation

` Colloid physical self-assembly 

and crystallization experiments

Commercial

` Magnetic cell separation and 

analysis technologies

Phase II Objectives

` Develop detailed technical requirements document

` Design and build components to 

space flight specifications:

t Electronics module to fit cold 

plate of LMM

t Life science experiment module

t Colloid science experiment 

module

` Develop the LMM Dynamic Stage 

observation platform verification 

plan

` Test the observation platform 

subsystems using the verification 

plan

` Complete laboratory testing via 

specific biology and physics 

microscopy observations and 

ground experiments

)LULÄ[Z

` Enables more versatile biomedical 

experiments aboard the ISS

` Accelerates R&D cycles for numerous experiments, products, and 

services

` Creates novel uses and users of the 

LMM on the ISS

Techshot, Inc. ho pto

Firm Contact

Techshot, Inc.

Michael A. (Andy) Kurk

akurk@techshot.com

7200 Highway 150

Greenville, IN 47124–9515

Phone: 812–923–9591 ext. 224

Proposal Number: 09-2 O3.03-9290

NASA/TM—2015-218857 8
9

Portable Cathode-Air Vapor-Feed 

Electrochemical Medical Oxygen 

Concentrator (OC) 

A lightweight and robust alternative to conventional 

pressure-swing technology

Missions on the International Space Station and future space exploration will 

present significant challenges to crew health care capabilities, particularly in 

the efficient utilization of onboard oxygen resources. Exploration vehicles will 

require lightweight, compact, and portable oxygen concentrators that can 

provide medical-grade oxygen from the ambient cabin air. Current 

pressure-swing adsorption OCs are heavy and bulky, require significant start-up 

periods, operate in narrow temperature ranges, and require a liquid water feed. 

Lynntech, Inc., has developed an electrochemical OC that operates with a 

cathode-air vapor feed, eliminating the need for a bulky onboard water supply.

Lynntech’s OC is smaller and lighter than conventional pressure-swing OCs, is 

capable of instant start-up, and operates over a temperature range of 5–80 °C. 

Accomplished through a unique nanocomposite proton exchange membrane 

and catalyst technology, the unit delivers 4 standard liters per minute of 

humidified oxygen at 60 percent concentration. The technology enables both 

ambient-pressure operating devices for portable applications and pressurized (up 

to 3,600 psi) OC devices for stationary applications.

Applications

NASA 

` Portable unit for preextravehicular activities

` Portable unit (with additional 

inlet filters) in the event of 

atmosphere contamination 

events, such as fire

` Source of oxygen to refill 

high-pressure ISS tanks

Commercial

` Oxygen source for commercial 

and battlefield hospitals and for 

medical surgeons in deployed 

locations

` Home therapy patients that 

require supplemental oxygen as 

a primary treatment for chronic 

obstructive pulmonary disease 

(COPD) as well as other respiratory conditions such as asthma, 

chronic bronchitis, congestive 

heart disease, emphysema, and 

lung cancer

` Oxygen source for wound 

treatment

` Long-duration oxygen supply for 

ambulance use

Phase II Objectives

` Optimize moisture adsorption at the 

cathode

` Optimize the anode flow-field 

expanded metal package

` Optimize the membrane electrolyte 

assembly compression in the OC 

stack

` Design and build a prototype OC 

stack 

` Test, characterize, and deliver a 

prototype OC system to NASA

` Establish long-term operational and 

storage requirements for delivered 

system

` Complete a safety analysis, final 

report, and flight-ready analysis 

document

)LULÄ[Z

` Provides on-demand and/or 

continuous medical-grade oxygen

` Delivers 60 percent humidified 

oxygen gas at pressures of 5 psi 

and above

` Enables both ambient-pressure and 

pressurized (up to 3,600 psi) OC 

devices

Lynntech, Inc. photos

Firm Contact

Lynntech, Inc.

Ashwin Balasubramanian

ashwin.balasubramanian@lynntech.com

2501 S. Earl Rudder Freeway

College Station, TX 77845

Phone: 979–764–2236

Proposal Number: 08-2 X10.01-9124

NASA/TM—2015-218857 9
Electronic Procedures for 

Medical Operations 

Improving comprehension and delivery of medical care

Electronic procedures are replacing text-based documents for recording the steps 

in performing medical operations aboard the International Space Station. S&K 

Aerospace, LLC, has developed a content-based electronic system—based on the 

Extensible Markup Language (XML) standard—that separates text from formatting standards and tags items contained in procedures so they can be recognized 

by other electronic systems. For example, to change a standard format, electronic 

procedures are changed in a single batch process, and the entire body of procedures will have the new format. Procedures can be quickly searched to determine 

which are affected by software and hardware changes. Similarly, procedures are 

easily shared with other electronic systems. The system also enables real-time 

data capture and automatic bookmarking of current procedure steps.

In Phase II of the project, S&K Aerospace developed a Procedure Representation 

Language (PRL) and tools to support the creation and maintenance of electronic 

procedures for medical operations. The goal is to develop these tools in such 

a way that new advances can be inserted easily, leading to an eventual medical 

decision support system.

Applications

NASA 

` International Space Station

` Space exploration vehicles

Commercial

` Hospitals

` Emergency medical technicians

` Firefighters

` Park rangers

` Pilots

Phase II Objectives

` Review medical operations workflow 

and existing medical procedures

` Review and update the PRL 

definition for the next-generation 

XML for medical procedures

` Design and prototype a medical 

equipment database

` Develop requirements for the 

procedure display

` Develop and use a test plan for 

evaluating the system editor

` Conduct an evaluation of the 

prototype

` Conduct market research for 

commercial applications

)LULÄ[Z

` Improves the comprehension and 

delivery of medical procedures to 

flight medical officers and crew

` Enables a greater degree of 

coordination with flight surgeons 

and biomedical engineers on the 

ground

` Facilitates easier construction and 

maintenance of medical procedures

Firm Contact

S&K Aerospace, LLC

info@ska-corp.com

63066 Old Highway 93

Suite B

St. Ignatius, MT 59865

Phone: 406–745–7500

Proposal Number: 07-2 O3.01-9652

NASA/TM—2015-218857 10
11

Mini Treadmill for 

Musculoskeletal Health 

For zero-gravity and terrestrial applications

Because NASA’s approach to space exploration calls for long-term extended 

missions, there is a pressing need to equip astronauts with effective exercise 

regimens that will maintain musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health. ZIN 

Technologies, Inc., has developed an innovative miniature treadmill for use in 

both zero-gravity and terrestrial environments. The treadmill offers excellent 

periodic impact exercise to stimulate cardiovascular activity and bone remodeling as well as resistive capability to encourage full-body muscle maintenance. 

A novel speed-control algorithm allows users to modulate treadmill speed by 

adjusting stride, and a new subject load device provides a more Earth-like 

gravity replacement load. 

This new and compact treadmill offers a unique approach to managing astronaut 

health while addressing the inherent and stringent challenges of space flight. The 

innovation also has the potential to offer numerous terrestrial applications, as a 

real-time daily load stimulus (DLS) measurement feature provides an effective 

mechanism to combat or manage osteoporosis, a major public health threat for 

55 percent of Americans over the age of 50.

Applications

NASA 

` Compact treadmill for use in 

zero-gravity environments

Commercial

` Mechanism to combat and/or 

manage osteoporosis

Phase II Objectives

` Build a technology demonstrator 

and engineering model 

` Demonstrate that the model will 

satisfy the stringent volumetric, 

power, and performance requirements demanded by space 

missions

` Provide the active feedback 

necessary to control the model and 

display DLS

` Complete systems engineering and 

integration activities

` Prepare detailed mechanical and 

electrical data acquisition designs

` Finalize software design

` Complete component testbed and 

engineering model

` Demonstrate subject load device 

fractional gravity functionality

)LULÄ[Z

` Maintains cardiovascular and 

musculoskeletal health

` Provides real-time DLS 

measurement feedback

NASA photo

Firm Contact

ZIN Technologies, Inc.

Bradley Humphreys 

humphreysb@zin-tech.com 

6745 Engle Road

Cleveland, OH 44130 

Phone: 440–625–2316

Proposal Number: 06-2 X14.01-9514

NASA/TM—2015-218857 11
Lightweight, Wearable, 

Metal RubberTM Sensor 

For autonomous health monitoring

NanoSonic, Inc., has developed comfortable garments with multiple integrated 

sensors designed to monitor astronaut health throughout long-duration space 

missions. The combined high electrical conductivity, low mechanical modulus, and 

environmental robustness of the sensors make them an effective, lightweight, and 

comfortable alternative to conventional use of metal wiring and cabling.

During Phase I of this project, NanoSonic demonstrated the feasibility of using its 

patented Metal Rubber sheet and fabric materials as sensor elements and highly 

flexible electrodes integrated into prototype instrumented garments. In feasibility 

tests, heart rate and electrocardiogram (EKG) data taken with the sensors were 

essentially identical to those obtained with standard biomedical instrumentation. 

In Phase II, NanoSonic improved the sensor materials and integration methods by 

working with a large-volume U.S. textile manufacturer, the sensor and electronics 

design group of a major aerospace company, and a biomedical sensor and device 

laboratory of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Specific and notable 

accomplishments include:

t Designing, fabricating, and evaluating the performance of sensor jerseys

t Developing data acquisition electronics needed to interface with standard 

storage and communication modules

t Investigating requirements for scaled-up manufacturing

Applications

NASA 

` Astronaut health monitoring

` Spacecraft instrumentation wiring

` Large-area radio frequency (RF) 

antennas, space-based radar, and 

photovoltaic arrays

` Ultralow-weight RF and electromagnetic interference shielding and 

ground planes for spacecraft and 

aircraft

` Highly flexible, conductive fairings 

and electrical interconnects in 

next-generation morphing air vehicles that change shape to optimize 

flight conditions

` Conformal “sensor skins” for unobtrusive measurement of aircraft skin 

friction and pressure 

Commercial

` Physiological sensor garments for:

t Emergency first responders

t Athletes

t Patients receiving home and 

institutional health care

t Security personnel

` Electrical interconnects in flexible 

electronic displays

` Deployable photovoltaic fabrics for 

electrical power generation

` Low-weight RF shielding and 

ground planes for cell phones and 

other electronic instrumentation

` Low-weight, conformal RF 

phased-array antennas

` Air- and water-flow sensors for 

aircraft and ship systems

` Electrical interconnects in 

next-generation prostheses

Phase II Objectives

` Develop and demonstrate a 

low-weight, noninvasive, reliable,

and comfortable autonomous 

health monitoring system for use by 

astronauts 

` Develop an integrated smart 

sensor garment that can be worn 

comfortably to continuously monitor 

physiological status

` Use the patented Metal Rubber 

sheet and fabric as both electrical 

and mechanical sensor elements 

and flexible, low-weight electrical 

sensor interconnect materials 

)LULÄ[Z

` Monitors astronaut health through 

long-duration space missions

` Provides a lightweight and 

comfortable alternative to 

conventional monitoring systems 

composed of metal wiring and 

cables

` Offers high electrical conductivity 

and low mechanical modulus

NanoSonic I , nc. photo

Firm Contact

NanoSonic, Inc.

Andrea Hill 

ahill@nanosonic.com 

1485 South Main Street 

Blacksburg, VA 24060–0618

Phone: 540–953–1785

Proposal Number: 06-2 X14.02-9306

NASA/TM—2015-218857 12
13

Lunar Health Monitor (LHM) 

A wearable sensor suite for continuous physiological 

monitoring

Orbital Research, Inc., has developed a low-profile, wearable sensor suite for 

monitoring astronaut health in both intravehicular and extravehicular activities. 

The Lunar Health Monitor measures respiration, body temperature, electrocardiogram (EKG) heart rate, and other cardiac functions. Orbital Research’s 

dry recording electrode is central to the innovation and can be incorporated 

into garments, eliminating the need for conductive pastes, adhesives, or gels. 

The patented dry recording electrode has been approved by the U.S. Food and 

Drug Administration. The LHM is easily worn under flight gear or with civilian 

clothing, making the system completely versatile for applications where 

continuous physiological monitoring is needed.

During Phase II, Orbital Research developed a second-generation LHM that 

allows sensor customization for specific monitoring applications and anatomical 

constraints. Evaluations included graded exercise tests, lunar mission task 

simulations, functional battery tests, and resting measures. The LHM represents 

the successful integration of sensors into a wearable platform to capture 

long-duration and ambulatory physiological markers.

Applications

NASA 

` Astronaut health and exercise 

monitoring

` Microgravity countermeasure 

assessment

Commercial

` Monitoring of emergency first 

responders

` Cardiac arrhythmia and mapping 

studies

` Monitoring during exercise and 

fitness activities

` Military health monitoring

` Patient rehabilitation and 

recovery tracking

` Pharmaceutical research and 

development

Phase II Objectives

` Complete design of the 

second-generation LHM

` Assemble a fully functioning 

prototype

` Demonstrate the performance of 

the prototype in a clinically and 

functionally relevant environment 

and protocol

` Complete a demonstration in a 

NASA test facility

` Review demonstration results and 

modify design accordingly 

)LULÄ[Z

` Provides continuous and 

comprehensive biomedical 

monitoring

` Eliminates skin irritation associated 

with extended exposure to 

conventional electrode adhesives

` Is comfortable to wear and quickly 

donned and doffed

Orbital Research, Inc. photos

Firm Contact

Orbital Research, Inc.

Frederick J. Lisy

lisy@orbitalresearch.com 

4415 Euclid Avenue, Suite 500 

Cleveland, OH 44103–3733

Phone: 216–649–0399

Proposal Number: 06-2 X14.02-9443

NASA/TM—2015-218857 13
Wearable Health Monitoring 

Systems 

For use in extreme environments and conventional 

health care settings

The shrinking size and weight of electronic circuitry has given rise to a new 

generation of smart clothing that enables biological data to be measured and 

transmitted. As the variation in the number and type of deployable devices and 

sensors increases, technology must allow their seamless integration so they can 

be electrically powered, operated, and recharged over a digital pathway.

Nyx Illuminated Clothing Company has developed a lightweight health monitoring system that integrates medical sensors, electrodes, electrical connections, 

circuits, and a power supply into a single wearable assembly. The system is 

comfortable, bendable in three dimensions, durable, waterproof, and washable. 

The innovation will allow astronaut health monitoring in a variety of real-time 

scenarios, with data stored in digital memory for later use in a medical database. 

Potential commercial uses are numerous, as the technology enables medical 

personnel to noninvasively monitor patient vital signs in a multitude of health 

care settings and applications.

Applications

NASA 

` Astronaut health monitoring:

t Flight preparation and takeoff

t Travel and landing

t General mission activities

t Health assessment in instances 

where astronauts cannot 

verbally communicate

t Research for future missions

Commercial

` Medical researchers can noninvasively monitor daily vital signs of 

one of more patients participating in medical trials.

` Physicians can monitor patient 

health status during normal 

lifetime pursuits or after surgical 

procedures.

` Patients can set alarm triggers to 

warn of excessive risk activities.

Phase II Objectives

` Build a working prototype that will 

demonstrate:

t Integration of medical sensors, 

electrodes, electrical connections, 

circuits, and power supply into a 

single, wearable assembly

t Distribution of electrical circuits to 

reduce bulk

t Easy replacement of electrodes

t Ability to measure biological sensor 

data and transmit it to an external 

computing device

t Simplicity of adding medical 

sensors to the system through 

use of a digital data bus to reduce 

overall wiring needs

` Perform reliability testing and integrate 

electrocardiogram (EKG) functionality

` Introduce a specification to allow for 

snap-fit of new biosensors

)LULÄ[Z

` Provides continuous and noninvasive 

health monitoring in extreme 

environments

` Integrates medical sensors and 

electronic circuitry into a single 

wearable assembly

Nyx Illuminated Clothing Co. photo

Firm Contact

Nyx Illuminated Clothing Company 

John Bell 

niccollc@earthlink.net 

5314 South Slauson Avenue 

Culver City, CA 90230–6060

Phone: 562–989–3940

Proposal Number: 06-2 X14.02-9549

NASA/TM—2015-218857 14
15

Wearable Beat-to-Beat Blood 

Pressure Monitor 

Provides continuous measurements in extreme environments

Linea Research Corporation has developed a wearable noninvasive monitor that 

provides continuous blood pressure and heart rate measurements in extreme 

environments. Designed to monitor the physiological effects of astronauts’ 

prolonged exposure to reduced-gravity environments as well as the effectiveness 

of various countermeasures, the device offers wireless connectivity to allow 

transfer of both real-time and historical data. It can be modified to monitor the 

health status of astronaut crew members during extravehicular missions. 

In Phase I of the project, Linea Research demonstrated the feasibility of the 

device. In Phase II, the company developed and fabricated a field-capable, lowpower, lightweight monitor. In addition to supplying monitors to NASA, Linea 

Research plans to introduce the technology for use in ambulatory, high-acuity, 

and home-based blood pressure monitors.

Applications

NASA 

` Medical support for astronauts 

in reduced- and zero-gravity 

environments

` Evaluation of long-term 

physiological effects of hypogravity and the effects of various 

countermeasures

` Support for normal activities and 

medical emergencies

Commercial

` Ambulatory blood pressure 

monitors

` Home-based blood pressure 

devices

` High-acuity (e.g., arterial line 

replacement) devices 

Phase II Objectives

` Build a field-capable prototype that 

can be deployed in space missions:

t Enhanced optical pulse detection

t Model-based blood pressure 

estimation

t Automated calibration

t Optimization of algorithm for 

real-time implementation

t Wireless connectivity

t Human factors engineering,

miniaturization, and system 

integration

t Animal and human studies

t Field testing of functional 

prototype 

)LULÄ[Z

` Enables continuous blood pressure 

measurement

` Requires cuff inflation only during 

calibration

` Eliminates the need for invasive 

procedures to obtain blood pressure 

via arterial lines

Linea Research Corp. illustration

Firm Contact

Linea Research Corporation 

Yong Jin Lee

lee@linearesearch.com

781 Rosewood Drive

Palo Alto, CA 94303–3638

Phone: 650–533–9546

Proposal Number: 07-2 X12.01-9535

NASA/TM—2015-218857 15
Individualized Behavioral Health 

Monitoring Tool 

Detects warning signs of disorders and conditions

Behavioral health risks during long-duration space exploration missions are 

among the most difficult to predict, detect, and mitigate. Given the anticipated 

extended duration of future missions and their isolated, extreme, and confined 

environments, there is the possibility that behavior conditions and mental 

disorders will develop among astronaut crew. 

Pulsar Informatics, Inc., has developed a health monitoring tool that provides 

a means to detect and address behavioral disorders and mental conditions at 

an early stage. The tool integrates all available behavioral measures collected 

during a mission to identify possible health indicator warning signs within the 

context of quantitatively tracked mission stressors. It is unobtrusive and requires 

minimal crew time and effort to train and utilize. The monitoring tool can 

be deployed in space analog environments for validation testing and ultimate 

deployment in long-duration space exploration missions.

Applications

NASA 

` Long-duration space exploration 

missions

` Astronaut training

` Training of medical personnel 

to recognize signs of behavioral 

distress

Commercial

` Tracking behavioral health in 

occupations associated with high 

stress, high workload, and high 

danger factors:

t Military personnel

t Law enforcement

t Emergency responders 

Phase II Objectives

` Achieve an individualized behavioral 

health monitor software interface

` Develop a data integration system

` Construct a trend-and-change 

detection algorithm

` Complete a countermeasure 

selection aid

)LULÄ[Z

` Detects behavioral disorders and 

mental conditions at an early stage 

when they can more easily be 

addressed

` Is unobtrusive 

` Requires minimal time to learn and 

utilize

AS NA photo

Firm Contact

Pulsar Informatics, Inc.

Daniel Mollicone

daniel@pulsarinformatics.com

3624 Market Street, Suite 5E

Philadelphia, PA 19104–2685

Phone: 215–520–2630

Proposal Number: 09-2 X12.02-9125

NASA/TM—2015-218857 16
17

Exercise Sensing and Pose 

Recovery Inference Tool (ESPRIT) 

A compact stereo-based motion capture solution for 

exercise monitoring

Crew exercise is important during long-duration space flight not only for 

maintaining health and fitness but also for preventing adverse health problems, 

such as losses in muscle strength and bone density. Monitoring crew exercise 

via motion capture and kinematic analysis aids understanding of the effects of 

microgravity on exercise and helps ensure that exercise prescriptions are effective. 

Intelligent Automation, Inc., has developed ESPRIT to monitor exercise activities, detect body markers, extract image features, and recover three-dimensional 

(3D) kinematic body poses.

The system relies on prior knowledge and modeling of the human body and on 

advanced statistical inference techniques to achieve robust and accurate motion 

capture. In Phase I, the company demonstrated motion capture of several 

exercises, including walking, curling, and dead lifting. Phase II efforts focused 

on enhancing algorithms and delivering an ESPRIT prototype for testing and 

demonstration.

Applications

NASA 

` Observing crew exercise activities

` Performing motion capture and 

kinematic analysis

` Contributing to the understanding of the effects on microgravity 

on exercise activities

Commercial

` Rehabilitation research:

t Gait analysis

t Orthopedics and skeletal 

movement monitoring

` Physiotherapy

` Human-robotics and 

human-computer interactions 

Phase II Objectives

` Develop an ESPRIT prototype to 

perform 3D motion capture from 

stereo

` Conduct detailed performance 

evaluation with comparison of joint 

location estimation from commercial 

multicamera motion capture system

` Conduct technical demonstration in 

a representative environment

)LULÄ[Z

` Compact and portable

` Fast set-up with minimal cabling

` Easy to use

IntelligentAutomation, nc I. p ot h so

Firm Contact

Intelligent Automation, Inc.

Mun Wai Lee

mlee@i-a-i.com

15400 Calhoun Drive, Suite 400

Rockville, MD 20853–2737

Phone: 301–294–4762

Proposal Number: 10-2 X11.01-8378

NASA/TM—2015-218857 17
Multimodal Neurodiagnostic Tool 

for Exploration Missions 

For detecting stress markers and providing 

actionable feedback

Linea Research Corporation has developed a neurodiagnostic tool that detects 

behavioral stress markers for astronauts on long-duration space missions. 

Lightweight and compact, the device is unobtrusive and requires minimal 

time and effort for the crew to use. The system provides a real-time functional 

imaging of cortical activity during normal activities. 

In Phase I of the project, Linea Research successfully monitored cortical activity 

using multiparameter sensor modules. Using electroencephalography (EEG) 

and functional near-infrared spectroscopy signals, the company obtained 

photoplethysmography and electrooculography signals to compute the heart rate 

and frequency of eye movement. The company also demonstrated the functionality of an algorithm that automatically classifies the varying degrees of cognitive 

loading based on physiological parameters. 

In Phase II, Linea Research developed the flight-capable neurodiagnostic device. 

Worn unobtrusively on the head, the device detects and classifies neurophysiological markers associated with decrements in behavior state and cognition. An 

automated algorithm identifies key decrements and provides meaningful and 

actionable feedback to the crew and ground-based medical staff.

Applications

NASA 

` Monitoring behavioral health of 

astronaut crew during longduration space missions

` Training for the psychological 

challenges of extended space 

missions

Commercial

` Diagnoses and treatment of 

various neurologic diseases:

t Multiple sclerosis

t Epilepsy

t Tumors

t Brain abscesses

` Sleep monitoring

` Head injury and post-surgery 

evaluations

` Psychiatric illness evaluations

` Ambulatory, multimodality 

functional imaging of cortical 

activity 

Phase II Objectives

` Design and fabricate an 

unobtrusive, flight-capable device 

that can be deployed for 

neurodiagnostic monitoring

` Develop algorithms that use the 

multimodality measurements to 

automatically classify neurophysiological markers associated 

with decrements in behavior

` Demonstrate and verify that 

the system provides feedback 

and automatically recommends 

countermeasures based on the 

neurophysiological data

)LULÄ[Z

` Monitors behavioral health of 

astronaut crew during space 

missions

` Facilitates training for the 

challenges of extended space 

deployments

` Diagnoses various neurological 

diseases and psychiatric illnesses

` Permits autonomous operation

` Is unobtrusive and automated 

Firm Contact

Linea Research Corporation

Yong Jin Lee

lee@linearesearch.com

1020 Corporation Way, Suite 216

Palo Alto, CA 94303–4317

Phone: 650–533–9546

Proposal Number: 10-2 X13.01-9606

NASA/TM—2015-218857 18
19

Passive, Collapsible Contingency 

Urinal for Human Space Flight 

Capillary-based fluid management system

Fluid transport systems for spacecraft face acute challenges because of the 

persistently unfamiliar and unforgiving low-gravity environment. IRPI, LLC, 

has developed a contingency wastewater collection and processing device that 

provides passive liquid collation, containment, bubble separation, and droplet 

coalescence functions. The lightweight, low-volume, low-cost, and potentially 

disposable device may be used for subsequent sampling, metering, storage, 

disposal, and/or reuse. The approach includes a fractal wetting design that 

incorporates smart capillary fluidics. This work could have a broad impact on 

capillary-based fluid management on spacecraft and on Earth.

Applications

NASA 

` Backup waste collection device

` Urine sample metering and 

measuring to monitor crew 

health

Commercial

` Biomedical research

` Lab-on-a-chip technologies

` Fuel delivery systems

` Advanced heat pipe wick 

structures 

Phase II Objectives

` Identify, develop, and manufacture 

surfaces that establish microand mesoscale wetting for 

representative liquids

` Design a macrocapillary device 

utilizing micro/mesowetting material 

that encompasses a fractal wetting 

design that will provide passive 

functionality for fluids with variable 

wetting

` Incorporate design into an 

ergonomic and functional device 

that seamlessly merges mechanical,

capillary, and standard interfacing

` Test each of the subcapillary 

components, including interfaces 

and bridges, in a high-rate drop to 

qualify individual components in low 

gravity

` Generate documentation and plans 

for International Space Station 

utilization of the developed device

)LULÄ[Z

` Lightweight

` Low cost

` Low volume

Firm Contact

IRPI, LLC

Ryan Jenson

rjenson@irpillc.com

P.O. Box 8323

Portland, OR 97207–8323

Phone: 503–545–2501

Proposal Number: 12-2 H10.02-9641

NASA/TM—2015-218857 19