Advanced Structural Development of a Deployable Cargo Deck Covering System

A cargo deck covering system is desired for the Joint Maritime Assault Connector (JMAC) and Landing Craft Air Cushion (LCAC) that will protect the cargo and the craft’s propellers from foreign object damage. The covering system must be able to withstand salt, sand, seawater spray, and high-winds (50+ knots). The ideal covering system should be adaptable and versatile enough to provide protection or coverage for a full range of cargo. Federal Fabrics-Fibers Inc. (FFF) specializes in producing AirBeams and AirFrame supported shelter systems. These shelters are light weight and compact when stowed. AirBeam supported shelters can be deployed very quickly and easily, they possess very good load carrying capacity. The shelter skin attached to the is supported over its entire perimeter as well as over several lengths, rather than only at specific points, resulting in a very stable skin in windy conditions reducing internal noise. The shelters produced by FFF are designed to incorporated a second internal skin further reducing internal noise as well as increasing the thermal efficiency of the structure. The AirFrame is designed with versatility in mind and may be reconfigured as needed for optimum storage or protection of goods.