Adaptive Energy Absorbing Buffer for Reduced Wave Slam Energy

This Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Phase I effort will demonstrate the feasibility of a novel passively adaptive shock and vibration isolating buffer system for the US Navys combatant craft. The proposed approach does not rely on conventional passive, semi-active or active spring-damper systems. The buffer system will provide energy damping via a liquid spring buffer and eddy current damping, of which the latter will passively adapt itself to the incoming shock and vibration velocity. Material testing and biodynamic modeling and simulation will be performed, and a system level shock and vibration test will be performed on a mock-up seat. The technical objectives of the work plan are to: (1) Develop a conceptual design of a liquid-spring and eddy current energy absorbing buffer with or without a passively adaptive seating pad to reduce the energy transmitted to the occupant by 50%, (2) Conduct biodynamic modeling and simulation to determine the effectiveness of the system in reducing wave-slam event transmitted energy, (3) Conduct shock and vibration tests to demonstrate the feasibility, (4) Perform cost analysis to demonstrate the cost reduction of 60% compared to existing seating systems, and update technical risk assessment to reduce risks to low, (5) Develop performance goals