Fiber Reinforced Composite Hull and Topside Structures for Air Cushioned Vehicles (MSC P7003)

The current aluminum hull and topside structure on LCAC are prone to corrosion and erosion due to the harsh salt-laden marine environment in which they operate. Improving durability, corrosion resistance, acoustic insulation and life cycle cost of the air cushioned vehicle (ACV) structure at minimum weight is paramount to achieving operational goals of future platforms such as the Joint Maritime Assault Connector (JMAC). The innovation and opportunity offered in this proposal is an approach for simultaneously reducing the weight, improving the durability and corrosion resistance of ACV hull and superstructure using fiber reinforced composite materials. To accomplish this objective, an Integrated Product Team (IPT) of composite designers and fabricators has been assembled to develop lightweight, advanced material solutions and joint designs for a typical ACV hull configuration. We are proposing to concurrently engineer the material, structural, and manufacturing efforts to meet the weight, durability and life-cycle cost goals. The primary Phase I product is a preliminary design package, i.e., a technical report and drawings, that will allow comparison of the SBIR design concept to performance goals and metrics defined by the IPT and the government.