Enhanced Airframe Structures Through Laser Deposition(Duration 35 months)(1000-444)

Triton Systems, Inc. (Triton) proposes a Phase II program to bring its innovative laser manufacturing technology, Laser Free Form Fabrication, known as LF3TM, to bear on fabricating, joining and repairing advanced airframe structures through the development of a Laser Additive Repair (LAR) process that is compatible with a portable Field Adaptable Unit (FAU). Proposed SBIR Phase II Enhancement and OSD Challenge funding would validate the LAR process developed in the Phase II and eventually demonstrate its application on actual military hardware on an FAU prototype integrated into a repair and maintenance depot. Triton will work closely with Northrop Grumman, the prime contractor for the Air Force's B-2 Spirit Bomber, to apply this repair process to the B2 Aft Deck, which represents a specific, near-term need for a precision "on aircraft" repair/refurbishment process. Large Ti-6242 titanium alloy components on the B-2 have developed cracks from a combination of high temperature thermal cycling and vibratory loads. These cracks are exposed on the existing outer mold line, causing deterioration of LO performance. To minimize the cost and mission readiness impact of the repair on the B-2 fleet, the repair must be done "on aircraft" without removing the component to be refurbished.