A -- Micro Magnetic Systems (MMS) Request for Information

Description Recent work in three-dimensional micro fabrication, such as work performed on DARPA's 3-D Micro Electromagnetic Radio Frequencies Systems (3-D MERFS) program, has demonstrated the ability to create complex 3-D micro-scale structures. Though the 3-D MERFS program was targeted at creating air-core rectangular coaxial transmission line structures, the same fabrication technology can be used to monolithically fabricate complex arrays of high-performance inductors and/or magnetic coils. Similarly, other programs and organizations are developing 3-D micro fabrication technologies that offer the geometric flexibility need to create arrays of inductors and magnetic coils. This is a Request for Information (RFI) by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) for suggestions as to how the ability to create micro fabricated coils and magnetic structures could best serve the needs of the Department. Potential applications might include gas or chemical analysis systems, miniaturized microscopy systems, analog RF signal processing systems, acoustic and/or seismic sensors, high voltage or high power control systems, etc. DARPA solicits potential performers to submit ideas related to this topic for use by the government in formulating a formal Micro-Magnetic Systems (MMS) solicitation. DARPA requests that submittals briefly and clearly describe the potential device that could be fabricated; estimate the anticipated performance of the device in terms of performance, size, weight, power, and reliability relative to existing systems; describe technical challenges that must be overcome to successfully realize said device; and outline the performers approach to overcoming those challenges. This request for information does not constitute a commitment, implied or otherwise, that a formal solicitation will be issued. No entitlement to payment of direct or indirect costs or charges by the Government will arise as a result of the submission of responder's information. Should the Government wish to issue a formal solicitation, it is estimated that this would occur approximately during the first quarter of calendar year 2008 for design and demonstration of novel Micro Magnetic Systems (MMS). Responses should be limited to five pages for any given concept. Any proprietary concepts or information should be clearly identified as such. Input on technical aspects of the responses may be solicited by DARPA from non-Government consultants/experts who are bound by appropriate non-disclosure requirements. For all RFI responses, an additional, non-proprietary cover page is also requested identifying your company name, technical point of contact and contact information. RFI responses should be received no later than COB October 15, 2007. RFI Responses should be submitted in a commonly used electronic format and may be e-mailed or mailed on a CD-ROM to: Dr. John Evans, Program Manager Ref: SN08-01 DARPA/MTO 3701 N Fairfax Dr. Arlington, VA 22203 John.Evans@darpa.mil Responders are requested to include SN07-59 in the subject line of any email correspondence. Original Point of Contact Dr. John Evans, DARPA Program Manager, Fax 703+248-1808, Email John.Evans@darpa.mil