NASA Awards $1.49M Contract for AI-Enhanced Digital Twin Framework for UAS Component Reliability
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $149,410 ($149.4K)
Contractor: Alarispro, Inc.
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2025-09-29
End Date: 2026-03-27
Contract Duration: 179 days
Daily Burn Rate: $835/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES
Number of Offers Received: 500
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: SBIR I AI-ENHANCED DIGITAL TWIN FRAMEWORK FOR UAS COMPONENT RELIABILITY IN SUPPORT OF IN-TIME AVIATION SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (IASMS)
Place of Performance
Location: LUSBY, CALVERT County, MARYLAND, 20657
State: Maryland Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $149,410 to ALARISPRO, INC. for work described as: SBIR I AI-ENHANCED DIGITAL TWIN FRAMEWORK FOR UAS COMPONENT RELIABILITY IN SUPPORT OF IN-TIME AVIATION SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (IASMS) Key points: 1. Focuses on improving aviation safety through advanced component reliability analysis. 2. Contract awarded to AlarisPro, Inc., a single entity. 3. Potential for significant safety improvements in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). 4. Research and Development in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences sector.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of $1.49 million for a 179-day duration appears reasonable for specialized R&D in AI and aviation safety. Benchmarking against similar complex R&D contracts would provide further context.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: limited
Awarded under 'FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES,' suggesting a prior exclusion and subsequent limited competition. This method may impact price discovery compared to broad open competition.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are directed towards advancing aviation safety technology, with potential long-term benefits in reduced accidents and operational costs.
Public Impact
Enhances safety protocols for unmanned aircraft systems. Leverages cutting-edge AI and digital twin technology. Supports the development of In-Time Aviation Safety Management Systems. Aims to improve the reliability of critical UAS components. Contributes to the advancement of aerospace R&D.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Limited competition may not yield the best price.
- Short contract duration for complex R&D.
- Specifics of 'exclusion of sources' not detailed.
Positive Signals
- Focus on critical safety improvement.
- Utilizes advanced AI technology.
- Potential for significant impact on UAS reliability.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on engineering and physical sciences applied to aviation. Spending in this area is crucial for technological advancement and safety improvements in the aerospace industry.
Small Business Impact
The data indicates this contract was not awarded to a small business. Further analysis would be needed to determine if small businesses were involved as subcontractors or if opportunities were missed.
Oversight & Accountability
NASA's procurement processes are generally robust, but oversight on the effectiveness of the R&D outcomes and adherence to the limited competition justification will be key.
Related Government Programs
- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration Contracting
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration Programs
Risk Flags
- Limited competition raises concerns about optimal pricing.
- Short contract duration may hinder comprehensive R&D.
- Potential for vendor lock-in with a single awardee.
- Reliance on proprietary AI technology requires careful IP management.
- Success hinges on the accuracy and reliability of the AI model.
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, national-aeronautics-and-space-administr, md, definitive-contract, 100k-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $149,410 to ALARISPRO, INC.. SBIR I AI-ENHANCED DIGITAL TWIN FRAMEWORK FOR UAS COMPONENT RELIABILITY IN SUPPORT OF IN-TIME AVIATION SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (IASMS)
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is ALARISPRO, INC..
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (National Aeronautics and Space Administration).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $149,410.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2025-09-29. End: 2026-03-27.
What is the expected return on investment for this AI-enhanced digital twin framework in terms of accident reduction or cost savings?
The return on investment is projected through enhanced UAS component reliability, leading to fewer in-flight failures and reduced maintenance costs. Quantifying this requires tracking accident rates and operational efficiency improvements post-implementation of the framework. Long-term benefits are expected to outweigh the initial $1.49 million investment by minimizing costly incidents and improving overall aviation safety.
What are the specific risks associated with relying on a single vendor for this critical safety technology?
The primary risk is vendor lock-in and potential lack of innovation if the vendor does not prioritize further development. Dependence on AlarisPro, Inc. could also pose a challenge if they face financial instability or are acquired. Ensuring clear contract terms for intellectual property and ongoing support is crucial to mitigate these risks.
How will the effectiveness of the AI-enhanced digital twin framework be measured and validated by NASA?
NASA will likely measure effectiveness through rigorous testing and validation protocols, comparing the framework's predictions against real-world component performance data. Key metrics may include the accuracy of failure predictions, reduction in unscheduled maintenance, and improved Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF). Independent verification and pilot program results will be critical for validation.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › General Science and Technology R&D Services
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Offers Received: 500
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 2840 PRISM CT, LUSBY, MD, 20657
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $149,410
Exercised Options: $149,410
Current Obligation: $149,410
Actual Outlays: $99,606
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Timeline
Start Date: 2025-09-29
Current End Date: 2026-03-27
Potential End Date: 2026-03-27 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2026-04-08
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