CanadaBuys #EN578-24ISC4/92

Portable magnetometer prototype for weak magnetic anomaly detection

Canada is seeking a portable, integrated magnetometer prototype to detect weak magnetic anomalies for defence and security applications. - Buyer and contracting organization: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED/ISDE), through the Innovative Solutions Canada Program, is sponsoring the challenge; Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) is the contracting organization. - OEMs and vendors: No OEMs, vendors, or commercial suppliers are named in the opportunity. Technologies of interest include SQUID, SQIF, nitrogen-vacancy diamond, Rydberg-atom sensors adapted for magnetic detection, and SERF; solutions may use quantum sensors, classical sensors, or both. - Requested product: One integrated hardware-and-software magnetometer prototype to detect, range, and identify magnetic anomalies. It must include power, an API/software component, and hardware. - Key mandatory performance requirements: Detect nearby anomalies at 2 m or more with less than 10% relative ranging error, and measure azimuth and inclination within ±5°. Sensitivity must be at least 500 pT, with 10 fT as a target. The system must detect and classify three Steel 1018 ferromagnetic targets at a minimum of 10 m through free space with a 95% true positive rate, characterize source position within approximately ±5 cm, and provide readout within 200 ms. - Operating and form-factor requirements: The prototype must sense through specified building barriers, including barriers with clutter; consume no more than 50 W; support at least eight hours of cordless operation; weigh no more than 15 kg; and fit within 117,232 cm³. It is intended for indoor operation within the specified temperature and humidity range. - Cost and desired capabilities: The proposed finished device must be manufacturable for under $60,000 CAD per unit. Desired improvements include greater range and sensitivity, better angular and object characterization, quiet and low-signature operation, wider environmental tolerance, and usability in varied settings. - Project scope: The solicitation anticipates one contract, with Phase 2 funding of up to $2,000,000 CAD and a project duration of up to 24 months. Approximately four trips to Ottawa are anticipated.

Description

Innovation, Sciences et Développement économique Canada (ISDE) seeks proposals for a novel magnetometer or integrated system using quantum sensors, classical sensors, or a combination to detect magnetic anomalies for defence and security and other applications. The prototype must meet mandatory outcomes including detection and identification of specified ferromagnetic targets, at least 500 pT sensitivity, integrated hardware and software, portable size and weight, and a per-unit production cost below $60,000 CAD. The Phase 2 contract may provide up to $2,000,000 CAD for a project lasting up to 24 months, with approximately four trips to Ottawa. One contract is estimated.

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