Tele-Operated/Autonomous Mechatronic Vehicle Kits for Use In Mixed Disaster Environments - SBIR Topic DON26BZ01-NV031
Disclaimer:
This topic was temporarily posted by the Department of War SBIR Program on March 2nd 2026 and removed the following day.
We believe this topic is planned to be released once the SBIR program is reauthorized; however, this topic may ultimately be modified or withdrawn.
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Funding Amount:
Est. $240,000
Deadline to Apply:
Est. April 29th, 2026.
Objective:
Create a mechatronic kit (roughly 3 feet wide, 3 feet long, 3 feet high, and weighing 220 pounds) with parts that can be easily swapped and reconfigured – including motors, sensors, and software – so that small teams can quickly build and change the mechatronic system in the field to handle many different tasks.
Description:
First responder teams are small and have many tasks. Mechatronic solutions could help, but current solutions suffer from key shortfalls:
- They are an overly special purpose, limited in broad utility
- They lack common architecture, and cannot be repurposed or decomposed/recomposed for easy transport and repair
- They cannot be physically combined for additional power, speed or endurance
- Many key prime mover components are not manufactured at United States
This topic aims to create mechatronic prototypes that first responders can build in the field from basic parts (like frames, motors, computers, and controls). These mechatronic systems will be easy to customize for different needs. Preconfigured applications could include:
- Simple logistics support (e.g., carrying, loading, unloading)
- Intermediate applications (e.g., inspection, search and recovery)
- Advanced capabilities (e.g., waterproof, fire resistant, cold tolerant)
This topic aims to develop an open-ended physical architecture like an “Erector Set” with potential for endless variation.
Who will win?
If you can achieve the objective above better than any other company on the market, you have a very high-likelihood of success and should apply.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any company that meets the following criteria:
For-profit company
U.S.-owned and controlled.
500 or fewer employees (including affiliates)
How Can BW&CO Help?
1) End-to-end support including, strategy, writing of the full proposal, and administrative & compliance support.
2) Proposal strategy and review.
3) Administrative & compliance support.
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