FLEXIBLE LATERAL MISSILE SUPPORT SYSTEM

Payload stored in multiple all-up-round canisters (MACs) critical to Ohio- and Virginia-class sub missions is susceptible to damage from excessive shock and vibration loading. TRI/Austin proposes to investigate a state of the art lateral missile support system to resolve this issue. A preliminary design of a hydraulically-actuated shock isolation system has been developed for this application. The proposed design will provide dampening at critical locations on MACs"outer surfaces while providing adaptability to future payload and mission configurations. The low profile design will eliminate damage that occurs to the existing mechanical solution when canisters are installed or removed. Phase I analysis and testing will confirm the feasibility of the selected materials and system design for full scale prototyping in Phase II. Other concepts, including commercially available shock isolators, will be explored to ensure the best solution is reached based upon design requirement satisfaction, cost, and potential for implementation.