Function-Oriented Reactive Structure Design with Smart Materials for Army’s Future Ground Vehicles

The objective of the proposed program is to develop an innovative technology for two specific classes of reactive structures with embedded adaptivity: 1) those for vibration and noise control, 2) those for vehicle protection. We propose to extend the novel reactive composite concept and related simulation and design methodologies developed in our Phase I program to a more general and reliable technology that can be used to lay out a wide range of reactive composite structures which can be used in Army’s future ground vehicles programs for various applications. There are three major focuses in the proposed R&D effort. The first one is to develop new and advanced design processes for optimal reactive mechanism designs and distribution of smart material(s) that can be used in specific reactive structures. The second focus is to develop a unique CAE tool for simulation and design of innovative reactive structures. The third focus is to conduct physical prototyping and experiments for proof-of-concept of the new technology developed and demonstrate the usage of the new technology for Army’s future ground vehicle programs in terms of both of vibration and noise control and vehicle protection. Note that results from the above tasks will be combined to achieve a practical, manufacturable, and optimum reactive structure or structures. With the new technology developed, innovative reactive structure concepts that may have never existed before can be developed – resulting in a wide range of potential applications in Army’s future ground vehicle programs.